Problem Solution Essay Structure

Problem-Solution essays are short essays for IELTS or subject exams that examine the problems of a specific situation and offer solutions to these problems. The structure of problem-solution essays includes four main sections – Situation (Introduction), Problem, Solution, and Evaluation (Conclusion).

Structure of problem solution essays

Problem-solution essays can be structured in two main ways, namely a block or a chain arrangement. In the block arrangement, all the problems are described first, and all the solutions are explained later. In the chain arrangement, each problem is immediately followed by its solution. Both the structures have their own advantages. The former is a better choice for writing shorter essays, whereas the latter allows you to present solutions related directly to the given problems.

Let us start writing a problem solution essay with the basic four-section structure in mind:

Section 1- Introduction

This section has two sentences – the question and the outline statement. You can paraphrase and state the question in the first sentence. Paraphrasing can be done by simply expressing the question again in different words that retain the same meaning. Use synonyms or adjust the order of the words. The second sentence is the outline statement that says what you will talk about in the essay.

Section 2- Problem

The problem section will state the problem in the first sentence. The next sentence explains the problem followed by the impact of this problem. Conclude this section by citing examples of the problem.

Section 3- Solution

Start the solution section by stating your solution to the problem. In the next sentence, explain how this solution will resolve your problem. Give some examples of the solution resolving the problem.

Section 4- Conclusion

The conclusion summarizes the key points of sections 2 and 3. There is no need to introduce new ideas in this section, but instead simply sum up the key points from the previous sections. Use synonyms to avoid repetition in this section. The last sentence of this section can be used to make recommendations or predictions.

This essay writing structure works for any problem solution essay. Note that this structure considers only one problem and offers one solution. In reality, one problem-one solution essays are more effective and easier to write. But, if you feel that this structure is not enough to write 250 words, you can include one more problem and provide the corresponding solution. However, having two problems and their solutions might prevent you from elaborating on and explaining your thoughts sufficiently or consume a lot of time.

Some common mistakes in problem solution essays

Despite being a common writing task, lots of students are not able to structure their essays properly. Here are some common mistakes for problem solution essays:

·         The most common error is not elaborating on your facts and just listing the problems and solutions. It would be better if you choose one or two problems and provide their solutions and explain them with examples.

·         Some students write about problems that are not related to the question directly. You need to stick to specific ideas by identifying the keywords rather than presenting an overall picture.

·         Lots of students come up with good thoughts for problems but fail to relate their answers to these problems. Each solution should be directly related to the problem and resolve it completely.

·         There are some students who come up with good ideas and solutions and even elaborate on their answers brilliantly, but their explanation is too general. Instead, they should provide clear explanations with specific examples.

Source essay provides essay writing templates to write flawless problem solution essays. Practice different templates to write essays comfortably.