IELTS Writing Task 2 accounts for two-thirds of your total writing score, and it is considered one of the most challenging sections for test takers. Among various essay types, the Problem and Solution format is very common in this task. In this guide, IDP provides a complete strategy to tackle Problem and Solution essays effectively.
1. Introduction to the Problem and Solution Type in IELTS Writing Task 2
In the Problem and Solution type, candidates are asked to present causes or impacts of an issue and propose corresponding solutions. To identify this essay type, it is important to carefully analyze the question and relevant keywords. Even if the question does not explicitly mention "problem," "solution," or "cause," it can still fall under this category.
Common Question Types:
What are the problems associated with this?
What are the causes or reasons? Why is it the case?
What can be done to solve this? What measures should be taken?
What actions can be taken to prevent people from facing this problem?
Based on the question wording, this type typically includes two major tasks under three main forms:
Cause - Solution: Analyze 2-3 major causes and propose solutions.
Cause - Effect: Analyze 2-3 causes and their current impacts.
Problem - Solution: Identify 2-3 problems and propose solutions for each.
2. Strategy for Solving Problem and Solution Questions in IELTS Writing Task 2
To manage your time well and meet the assessment criteria, you need a clear plan and strong writing skills.
Step 1: Analyze the Question
Read the prompt carefully to identify the main task.
Example:
Global warming is one of the biggest threats humans face in the 21st century, and sea levels continue to rise at alarming rates. What problems are associated with this, and what are some possible solutions?
Task Requirement: Discuss problems related to global warming and propose solutions.
Keywords: Global warming, sea levels, humans.
Focus: Human-related impacts only (not effects on nature or animals).
Step 2: Create an Outline
After identifying the task, outline your main ideas. A standard structure includes:
Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state the main points.
Body Paragraphs: Group ideas logically into 2 or 3 paragraphs.
Conclusion: Summarize the main ideas without introducing new arguments.
Developing Ideas: Identify 2-3 problems and propose a solution for each. A sample idea table:
No | Problem | Solution |
1 | Flooding disrupts lives and businesses | Build flood barriers, relocate communities, raise awareness |
2 | Soil erosion and food shortages | Reforestation, land restoration, emergency aid |
3 | Mass migration from coastal areas | Forecasting systems, evacuation planning |
Choose 2 problems to explore deeply and focus on one solution per problem. Choose topics you're confident writing about using your vocabulary.
Step 3: Develop the Essay
Introduction
Include two sentences:
Sentence 1: Paraphrase the prompt.
Sentence 2: Present your main points.
Example:
Climate change is among the principal dangers facing people this century, and ocean levels are increasing dramatically.
This essay will first indicate that the major issues caused by this phenomenon are the loss of land and flooding of dwellings, and it will then suggest reducing pollution and building flood protection as the best solutions.
Body Paragraphs
There are two common structures:
Option 1
Paragraph 1: State 2 problems.
Paragraph 2: Provide solutions for those problems.
Option 2
Paragraph 1: Problem 1 and its solution.
Paragraph 2: Problem 2 and its solution.
Example (Using Option 1):
Body Paragraph 1: Problems
Land is being lost, and homes are frequently flooded, which are the main issues caused by rising sea levels.
Low-lying areas become submerged, shrinking many countries.
Floods and tsunamis damage homes, belongings, and threaten millions.
The 2011 Tsunami in Japan showed the devastating effects firsthand.
Body Paragraph 2: Solutions
Building flood barriers and reducing pollution are two potential solutions.
Individuals can help by lowering their carbon footprint to reduce water levels.
Flood defenses like dikes and floodgates can protect inhabited areas.
Japan has effectively implemented these methods with success.
Common Mistakes:
Listing too many points without developing them.
No examples or real-world connections.
Solutions not clearly linked to the stated problems.
Conclusion
Summarize the key points in two sentences, using different vocabulary or grammar structures from the introduction.
Example:
In conclusion, rising sea levels caused by global warming are a major issue, leading to land loss and increased flooding. Nevertheless, we can mitigate these effects by protecting the environment and applying flood prevention strategies used by countries like Japan.
3. Resources to Support Writing Problem and Solution Essays
Improving your performance in IELTS Writing Task 2 requires practice and access to quality resources.
Recommended Books:
IELTS Task 2 by Simon: Known for concise tips from an experienced examiner.
IELTS Write Right: Great for learners looking to improve by band level.
Cambridge IELTS Series: Contains real test questions for practice.
Online Tools:
Cambridge Write and Improve: Receive automated feedback on essays.
Paper Rater: Check grammar and vocabulary errors.
Summary
Climate change is among the main challenges of our time, and rising sea levels present serious problems. This guide has walked you through a structured 4-step approach to tackle Problem and Solution essays in IELTS Writing Task 2. From identifying question types to creating detailed outlines and developing strong body paragraphs, you now have a complete strategy to score high. Don’t forget to proofread carefully before submitting your final essay. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!