Problem-solution essays are a staple of IELTS Task 2. The question usually asks you to "discuss the causes of X and suggest solutions" or "describe the problems caused by X and recommend measures." You lose marks if you only describe the problem without proposing realistic, specific solutions.
The Structure
- Introduction: Briefly introduce the problem. Mention that you will discuss causes and solutions.
- Body paragraph 1 — Causes: Two or three causes of the problem, each briefly explained.
- Body paragraph 2 — Solutions: One solution per cause (or two general solutions). Each solution should be specific and linked to the cause it addresses.
- Conclusion: Summarise and emphasise the most important solutions.
The Solutions Must Be Specific
Vague solutions kill your Task Response score. Compare:
- ❌ Weak: "Governments should do more to solve this problem."
- ✓ Strong: "Governments could mandate environmental impact assessments for all new industrial projects, requiring companies to demonstrate carbon-neutral operations within five years."
The second version is specific, actionable, and shows sophisticated thinking.
Key Vocabulary
For causes: "A primary driver of this problem is..." / "This issue stems largely from..." / "Contributing factors include..."
For solutions: "One effective measure would be to..." / "Authorities could address this by..." / "A viable solution lies in..."
For linking cause to solution: "Since [cause], the logical response is to..." / "To counteract [problem], [solution] would be most effective."
Common Topics for Problem-Solution Essays
- Environmental problems (pollution, deforestation, climate change)
- Social problems (unemployment, crime, homelessness)
- Health problems (obesity, mental health, sedentary lifestyles)
- Education problems (illiteracy, university costs, skills gaps)
For each topic, prepare 2-3 causes and 2-3 solutions before your exam. You won't always use all of them, but having them ready means you won't go blank on exam day.