questions for problem solution essay

Addressing Challenges: A Guide to Problem and Solution Essay Topics

Table of contents

1.1 Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics
1.2 Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas
1.3 Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas
1.4 Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay
1.5 Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics
1.6 Economic Problems to Write About
1.7 Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays
1.8 Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics
1.9 Transportation Problem Solution Topics
1.10 Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas
2 Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay
3 Closing Note

Navigating the complexities of real-world issues through the lens of academic inquiry, problem-and-solution essays serve as a dynamic educational tool. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? Problem and solution essays are crucial to academic writing, offering students an invaluable opportunity to analyze various situations and articulate effective solutions critically. These essays sharpen critical thinking and problem-solving skills and encourage a deep exploration of a multitude of contemporary issues. By tackling these essays, students gain the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives and develop insights into potential remedies.

This article promises to dive into an extensive array of topics for problem and solution essays, encompassing diverse areas and problems to write about, such as environmental issues, social challenges, healthcare dilemmas, and more.

120 Problem Solution Essay Topics List

With such a rich palette of issues, the next step in crafting an impactful essay becomes crucially important. Selecting an appropriate topic is key when tasked with writing a problem-solving essay. It’s essential to choose a subject that is not only relevant and engaging but also provides ample scope for in-depth research and thorough analysis. This careful selection allows for a detailed exploration of the issue and the formulation of effective solutions. To aid in this process, we have compiled an extensive list of 120 thought-provoking topics for problem-solution essays.

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Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics

Combating Climate Change: Strategies for Global Cooperation.
Addressing Ocean Pollution: Cleaning Our Seas.
Deforestation: Reforestation and Sustainable Practices.
Urban Air Pollution: Cleaner Cities.
Endangered Species: Conservation Efforts.
Plastic Waste Management: Innovative Solutions.
Sustainable Agriculture: Feeding the World Responsibly.
Renewable Energy: Transition from Fossil Fuels.
Water Scarcity: Effective Water Management.
Eco-friendly Transportation: Reducing Carbon Footprint.

Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas

Homelessness: Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions.
Gender Inequality: Bridging the Gap in the Workplace.
Racial Discrimination: Fostering Inclusivity.
Bullying in Schools: Prevention Strategies.
Elderly Care: Improving Senior Living.
Child Abuse: Strengthening Child Protection Services.
Poverty Alleviation: Economic Empowerment Programs.
Substance Abuse: Effective Rehabilitation Approaches.
Unemployment: Job Creation Strategies.
Digital Divide: Bridging the Technological Gap.

Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas

Mental Health Stigma: Promoting Awareness and Acceptance.
Obesity Epidemic: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes.
Healthcare Accessibility: Universal Health Coverage.
Pandemic Preparedness: Lessons from COVID-19.
Antibiotic Resistance: Developing New Treatments.
Chronic Diseases: Prevention and Management.
Mental Health in the Workplace: Supporting Employees.
Telemedicine: Bridging the Healthcare Gap.
Health Education: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles.
Drug Affordability: Policies for Cheaper Medications.

Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay

Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Digital Information.
AI Ethics: Balancing Innovation and Privacy.
Social Media Addiction: Finding Digital Balance.
Technological Unemployment: Reskilling the Workforce.
Online Privacy: Protecting Personal Data.
E-waste Management: Sustainable Recycling Practices.
Digital Literacy: Educating the Next Generation.
Internet Censorship: Balancing Freedom and Security.
Tech in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences.
Future of Work: Adapting to Technological Changes.

Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics

Student Loan Debt: Financial Aid and Repayment Options.
Academic Pressure: Promoting a Balanced Education.
Dropout Rates: Improving Student Engagement.
Quality Education in Rural Areas: Bridging the Gap.
Gender Disparity in STEM: Encouraging Female Participation.
Teacher Burnout: Strategies for Support and Retention.
Digital Divide in Education: Accessible Learning for All.
Standardized Testing: Alternatives for Student Assessment.
Special Needs Education: Inclusive Teaching Strategies.
Lifelong Learning: Promoting Continuous Education.

Economic Problems to Write About

Income Inequality: Fair Wage Policies.
Global Trade: Promoting Ethical Practices.
Sustainable Economic Growth: Eco-friendly Business Models.
Financial Literacy: Educating the Public.
Unemployment: Innovative Job Creation Strategies.
Cryptocurrency: Regulation and Security.
Global Poverty: Effective Aid Strategies.
Economic Crises: Preventive Measures and Solutions.
Gig Economy: Ensuring Worker Rights.
Consumer Debt: Promoting Responsible Spending.

Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays

International Conflict Resolution: Peacekeeping Strategies.
Refugee Crisis: Humanitarian Aid and Integration.
Global Hunger: Sustainable Solutions.
Climate Change Migration: International Policies.
Cultural Preservation: Protecting Heritage in a Globalized World.
Human Trafficking: Global Efforts to Combat.
Global Health: Eradicating Communicable Diseases.
Water Crisis: International Cooperation for Water Security.
Wildlife Trafficking: International Laws and Enforcement.
Global Education: Ensuring Access for All.

Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics

Corruption: Transparency and Accountability Measures.
Election Integrity: Ensuring Fair Democratic Processes.
Political Polarization: Fostering Civil Discourse.
Human Rights: Protecting Individual Freedoms.
Press Freedom: Combating Censorship.
Public Trust in Government: Building Confidence through Transparency.
Policy Making: Involving Public Participation.
International Relations: Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution.
Government Surveillance: Balancing Security and Privacy.
Political Activism: Encouraging Civic Engagement.

Transportation Problem Solution Topics

Urban Traffic Congestion: Efficient Public Transport Solutions.
Road Safety: Reducing Accidents and Fatalities.
Sustainable Aviation: Eco-Friendly Air Travel.
Maritime Pollution: Cleaner Shipping Practices.
Electric Vehicles: Infrastructure and Adoption.
Public Transportation Accessibility: Inclusive Design.
Bicycle-Friendly Cities: Promoting Cycling Infrastructure.
Autonomous Vehicles: Ethical and Practical Considerations.
Urban Planning: Integrating Efficient Transportation Systems.
Transportation in Rural Areas: Improving Connectivity.

Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas

Cultural Appropriation: Promoting Cultural Sensitivity.
Ethical Consumerism: Making Informed Choices.
Media Bias: Promoting Objective Reporting.
Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment and Welfare.
Online Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Regulations.
Genetic Engineering: Ethical Implications and Regulations.
Work-Life Balance: Corporate Policies for Better Harmony.
Privacy in the Digital Age: Ethical Considerations.
Artificial Intelligence: Addressing Ethical Concerns.
Cultural Preservation: Respecting and Protecting Heritage.

Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay

Selecting an easy topic for a problem-solving essay is a strategic process that can significantly streamline your writing phase. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? To identify such a topic, begin by reflecting on common challenges faced in everyday life, whether they pertain to personal, community, or global issues. An easy topic often lies in an area where you have personal experience or interest, as this familiarity can provide a wealth of insights and ready solutions. Additionally, consider issues with widespread impact yet are manageable in scope, ensuring that your essay can propose realistic and achievable solutions. Researching current events and trends can also unveil relevant and engaging topics, yet not overly complex, making them ideal candidates for a concise and focused essay. Here are 20 easy problem and solution topics:

Reducing Stress in College: Time Management Strategies.
Healthy Eating on a Budget: Accessible Nutrition.
Overcoming Procrastination: Effective Techniques.
Managing Social Media Use: Finding a Healthy Balance.
Improving Sleep Quality: Strategies for Better Rest.
Balancing School and Work: Time Management Tips.
Reducing Screen Time: Encouraging Outdoor Activities.
Dealing with Bullying in Schools: Prevention and Intervention.
Encouraging Physical Activity: Community Fitness Programs.
Improving Reading Habits: Encouraging Literary Engagement.
Enhancing Community Safety: Neighborhood Watch Programs.
Reducing Littering: Effective Waste Management.
Coping with Anxiety: Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques.
Promoting Environmental Awareness: Educational Campaigns.
Addressing Teen Smoking: Prevention and Education.
Encouraging Volunteerism: Community Involvement Programs.
Reducing Carbon Footprint: Sustainable Lifestyle Changes.
Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking: Confidence Building.
Enhancing Road Safety: Awareness and Enforcement.
Promoting Cultural Understanding: Exchange Programs.

By aligning your selection with areas of personal insight or concern, you ease the research and writing process and infuse your essay with authenticity and enthusiasm.

Closing Note

In conclusion, problems and solutions examples offer a platform to address a plethora of issues, ranging from personal challenges to global concerns. The problem-solution paper topics listed in this article provide diverse issues to explore, offering opportunities for critical thinking and solution-focused writing. Whether you choose a complex global issue or a simpler, more relatable topic, the key is to present a well-researched problem and propose feasible and effective solutions. It is a problem-solving solution essay topic guide for college students guide. Thus, young people develop their writing skills through these essays and contribute their voices to ongoing discussions about important matters. Remember, every problem has a solution, and your essay could be the first step toward finding it.

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A List of 339 Problem Solution Essay Topics & Questions

A problem solution essay is a type of persuasive essay. It’s a piece of writing that presents a particular problem and provides different options for solving it. It is commonly used for subject exams or IELTS writing tasks.

In this article, we’ll take a look at how to write this type of essay. We will also provide ideas of good problem and solution essay topics to ease students’ writing process. But first: check out our custom writing service in case you need academic assistance!

🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ How to Write a Problem Solution Essay

⭐ top 10 problem and solution essay topics for 2024.

🧑🤝🧑 Topics about Society
🏫 Topics on Education
💵 Business & Finance Topics
🍎 Health & Psychology Topics
🌎 Environment Topics
🐶 Topics about Animals
🔬 Science & Technology Topics
🏠 Local Problem Solution Topics
😄 Funny & Easy Topics
🤔 Other Problem Solution Topics

🔍 References

🔝 top 10 problem solution essay topics.

The best way to improve logistics
How to prevent drunk driving
How can we prevent stroke?
Ways to promote independent music
How to prevent teen pregnancy
Can schools help with childhood obesity?
Ways to teach children financial literacy
What can we do to stop human trafficking?
Can teaching self-defense reduce violence?
Building dams to fight the flooding problem

When starting to write an essay, think about a problem in the community that needs to be resolved. Sometimes, you will get a ready topic, like at an IELTS exam.

The topics might vary, but the outline of an essay will remain the same. First, write a list of actions that can help to solve the problem. Then, pick the three that you like best and evaluate them.

Once you get your solutions, start writing.

Any essay, whether it’s for high school or college, should be well-structured. Problem solution essays consist of two paragraphs: problem description and solution . The first section is generally divided into several parts:

Introduction. Provide the definition of the problem, some general background, and thesis statement with possible solutions.
Situation. Give clear examples on the issue so that readers can understand it better.
Problem. Describe the issue and its effect on people.

In the solution section, you need to identify several potential solutions and evaluate their effectiveness. It should include:

Two or more possible solutions .
Evaluation and critical assessment of the solutions.
Conclusion with a summary of the main points of the text.

Now, you have a general idea about the writing process. To help facilitate your writing, take a look at the topic ideas below.

Is group therapy effective against BPD?
Can smart fridges prevent binge eating?
Can having remote workers decrease costs?
Sustainable homes as a way to save energy
How nature reserves prevent wildlife extinction
Reducing education costs with online education
Is gun control a way to stop mass shootings?
Can class discussions help fight youth violence?
One-child policy as a way to stop overpopulation
Is car sharing effective for decreasing CO2 emissions?

🧑🤝🧑 Problem and Solution Topics about Society

Social issues are problems of every level that influence the members of our society. They may refer to various factors, such as racial inequality or bullying, that affect the well-being of people or the community as a whole. Here are some problem-solving topics that will help you start writing.

A part of the world’s population lives in conditions that don’t meet their basic needs. What are the ways to alleviate or prevent poverty ?
There were several instances when social media websites were accused of gathering people’s private information. What are the ways to ensure privacy in the digital age?
A vast number of girls get pregnant and give birth before the age of 20. What are some ways to reduce the teenage pregnancy rate in your country?
Body shaming is one of the biggest problems of today’s society. What are the ways to solve this issue?
Despite an increase in public awareness about the adverse effects of racism, the issue persists. How can we eliminate it?
Unemployment negatively affects the living conditions of many people. It also facilitates such issues as domestic violence and depression. How can unemployment rates be improved in your country?

Education is a fundamental human right, yet many people in some developing countries remain illiterate. How can we solve this issue?
Habits such as smoking and overeating negatively affect people’s health. How can we better promote healthy lifestyles ?
Victims of domestic violence often develop physical disabilities, chronic health problems, and stress. In what ways can we reduce domestic violence in our society?
Inequality in payment, sexual harassment, and difficulty getting promoted are some of the issues women face at workplaces. What can our society do to increase equality?
Celebrities often appear to look flawless, which affects people’s body image . How can we promote healthier beauty standards ?
When children observe violent behaviors , they become more aggressive. In what ways can we prevent them from witnessing violence?
Health care is a major social issue, as many people don’t have access to high-quality services. How can we improve this situation?
The ownership of guns increases the chances of unintentional shootings, which can result in casualties. How can gun control policies be improved?
The consumption of illegal drugs often leads to overdosing. In what ways can people be persuaded not to do drugs?
Drunk driving is the leading cause of vehicle accidents. What is the best way to restrict people from doing it?
Human trafficking is a grave problem that affects countries all over the world. How can it be prevented?
Women often report being sexually assaulted while in college. What can we do to reduce this problem?
Homeless people are more likely to engage in abuse or violent behavior. What can be done to solve the issue?
Parental divorce is a traumatic experience for a child. How can its adverse effects be eliminated?

🏫 Problem Solution Essay Topics on Education

The educational system is riddled with issues. You can think of numerous drawbacks that need to be addressed to make education better. Below are several examples of problem solution essay topics that will inspire you to write.

In the pandemic environment, many students had to resort to online education , often with questionable quality. What are the ways to make e-learning effective?
Many schools fail to provide adequate sex education programs. How can we reduce the stigma around this topic?
Numerous students get bad grades due to reasons other than laziness. How can we help struggling learners?
For many students, a strict schedule remains a big issue. Should students be offered the possibility of flexibility?
Many private and public schools require a strict uniform . Are there ways to express one’s individuality without violating the dress code?
A majority of students in schools and colleges admit to cheating . What are the ways to put an end to this behavior?
Technology usage in education can be beneficial, as it might improve engagement and individual learning. How can schools become more adaptable to digitalization?
Learning a foreign language can help students develop additional mental abilities. Should it be mandatory in all schools?
Students often find themselves delaying or postponing tasks. It leads to lower grades and health issues, such as headaches or insomnia . How can we reduce the levels of student procrastination ?
Obesity is associated with the leading causes of death in the US. Should the educational system include more physical education classes to build a fitter community?
Students with learning disorders may have a feeling of frustration when mastering a subject. In what ways can colleges adapt to their needs?
There are many subjects in school, and not all of them are equally useful for everyone. How can we make sure that students are learning what is best for them?
Schools often put more funding into science, mathematics, and humanities. Should they also fund physical education (PE)?
Gifted education allows talented students to learn more and move ahead at their pace. At the same time, it creates inequality. How can these programs be improved?
Disruptive children usually prevent themselves and other students in class from working. What are the ways to deal with these students to make the work effective?
The core curriculum for all schools allows all children to be taught all subjects but can be a bit strict. Should all schools have the same curriculum?
Students are often provided with college preparation classes that don’t prepare them for work. Should schools focus more on getting students job-ready?
Bullying and violence are the major issues at school that affect mental and physical health. What can teachers do to prevent these behaviors at school?
The majority of students don’t perform equally well in all subjects. Instead, they excel in certain ones and fail in others. Should learners be allowed to choose their courses?
Printed books are not easy to update, as new editions are often costly. Should schools move to digital textbooks ?

💵 Business & Finance Problem Solutions Topics

A significant number of issues can arise while managing a business or creating a startup. It can be related to anything from cybersecurity to marketing strategies. If you are into entrepreneurship, consider choosing a problem solutions topic from the list below.

Raising minimum wages might result in the loss of jobs. What are the alternatives?
Job dissatisfaction often stems from issues related to wages, career progression, and leadership approach. How can we increase job satisfaction?
The high unemployment rate brings an economic loss to the government, as well as causes individual sufferings. What are the possible methods to reduce it?

A large number of startups fail in the first year of functioning. How can governments ensure their sustainability?
Low employee productivity can create serious setbacks for businesses. What are the ways to increase productivity?
Bad customer service damages the company’s reputation and leads to the loss of clients. What are the steps to fix this issue?
The lack of teamwork might result in efficiency and productivity drop. How can we improve team cooperation in the company?
Inflation negatively affects people with fixed wages and large amounts of cash savings. How can it be avoided?
Carrying a student loan debt and failure to repay one may result in serious financial troubles. How can we solve the problems associated with student credit?
The lack of performance monitoring might lead to unintended behaviors within the organization. How can we persuade people to start using a set of performance indicators?
A significantly high number of people live from payday to payday, failing to accumulate savings. What is the best way to save money monthly?
Bad investments rarely bring any profit. How can people avoid poor investments?
Financial crisis can lead to mass job losses and businesses shutting down. How can we overcome recessions effectively?
The biggest challenge for small businesses during a pandemic is staying open and making a profit. How can governments support small businesses in case of another epidemic?
Poor marketing might result in financial problems and low customer volumes. How can you improve an average marketing strategy ?
Imagine a company whose cash flow is adequate, yet there aren’t enough financial resources for it to grow. What are the ways to manage a strapped budget?
Employee turnover has immediate consequences for a company. How can we reduce it?
Business competition can harm small businesses through price factors and labor costs. How can they handle the competition?
Poor workflow directly affects the revenue of the company. How can companies manage it effectively?
Unsatisfied customers might spread the word about the ineffectiveness of the company. How can organizations increase customer satisfaction?

🍎 Health & Psychology Problem Solving Topics

Problems related to health and mental well-being are common in the modern world. It’s not surprising, considering the influence of consumerist culture and environmental factors. You can address any issue you’re particularly concerned about. The following problem solution essay topics will give you an idea of where to start.

There are several reasons for poor mental health among older people in the US. What are the ways to improve it?
Substance addiction affects individuals because of the stigma associated with it. In what ways can we help people in recovery?
A significant number of people suffer from eating disorders , which affects their mental and physical states. How can society prevent it?
Depression is a common disorder among teenagers. How can teachers and parents help them manage it?
Birth order can impact the way parents treat their children and children’s behavior. Can we, as a society, raise more awareness about the effects of birth order ?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is experienced by people who suffered from trauma. How can society help those who have it?
Peer pressure forces people to do things that they might not want to do. How can we reduce its influence?
Romantic relationships often fail due to misunderstandings. How do we raise awareness about the possible difference in love styles?
Schizophrenia is a complicated mental illness that has a severe impact on one’s life. How can society help people seek treatment for this disorder?
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) might isolate themselves from peers. How can teachers and parents help kids with social skills impairments?
Alzheimer’s disease affects intellectual and physical abilities, memory, and personality. How can people prevent its development?
Somatization disorder is a tendency to feel psychological pain in the form of physical. What is the best treatment for its symptoms?
Prolonged use of defense mechanisms makes people feel as if they aren’t in control of their own emotions. How can we help people overcome these feelings?
A significant percentage of children have ADHD . How can we help children with this disorder?
Nowadays, many people have sleep disorders. How can insomnia be prevented?
The coronavirus pandemic of 2020 caused many children to feel lonely and detached. What can parents do to help their kids in case of another pandemic?
Suicide is a growing problem among people of all ages. What can we do to prevent it?
Constant stress negatively affects sleep quality. What techniques can help improve it?
It’s natural for parents to help their children as much as possible. But because of this, they often put them under too much pressure. How can we help parents find the right balance?
Constant stress increases the chances of stroke . What are the ways to reduce the risk?

🌎 Problem Solving Topic Ideas about Environment

Today’s most significant environmental issue is climate change, but it’s not the only one. There are more global problems that need to be resolved. If you’re concerned about the environment, here are some problem-cause-solution topics for you.

Drinking water has become an uncommon thing in many countries due to pollution. What can people do to help with this problem?
Climate change has numerous adverse effects, such as shifting seasons and new sicknesses. How can this issue be effectively addressed?
Vehicles release a significant amount of greenhouse gases , which contributes to global warming. Should there be a rule about reducing car usage to facilitate the solution to the environmental problem?
Woodlands produce oxygen and help regulate the temperature. Unfortunately, a vast amount of wooded areas is lost due to deforestation. What are the possible ways to solve this problem?
Marine life is suffering because of the amount of carbon in the water. How can people protect it?
Air pollution poses a serious danger to people’s health . How can we reduce its adverse effects?
Overpopulation results in a deficiency of assets like water, food, and fuel. How can we control it?
Ozone depletion leads to an increase in the amount of ultraviolet. It results in cancer and other skin diseases. How can we solve this problem?
Due to overpopulation, people use natural resources faster than nature can replenish them. How can we prevent its depletion?
Leftover food is a massive problem, as it wastes water and farmland. How can we reduce it?
Pesticides used to grow fruits and vegetables might cause health problems. How can we promote organic farming?

Polluted soil contains chemicals dangerous to humans, animals, and plants. Is there something that can help to avoid soil pollution ?
Using bicycles reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. How can governments promote the usage of bicycles to reduce air pollution ?
Natural disasters result from Earth’s processes and negatively affect people’s lives. What can we do to prepare for natural hazards?
Fluorinated gases used in refrigerators and hair sprays significantly contribute to climate change. How can we minimize their impact on the environment?
Oil spills harm wildlife and marine life, as well as contribute to climate change. How can major companies prevent that from happening?
Marine life is drowning in plastic, which creates major environmental issues. How can we stop plastic pollution in the ocean?
The rapid loss of biodiversity threatens our health and economic stability. What can we, as consumers, do to solve this issue?
A significant amount of money is spent on cleaning garbage. Still, it’s not enough to get rid of it completely. What are the solutions to the problem of littering ?
Noise pollution creates discomfort and lowers the quality of people’s lives. What are the practical ways to reduce it?

🐶 Problem Solution Essay Topics about Animals

Animals have existed on our planet way before the emergence of humans. As time went by, many species vanished or became endangered due to people’s activities. Factory farms, fur industry, poaching— all of these issues require a solution. If you’re passionate about this topic, try exploring one of the following prompts.

Circus animals are often violently forced to jump through rings of fire, ride bicycles, and do other activities. How can we stop the use of wild animals in circuses?
Experiments on animals lead to reduced quality of their life and are often ineffective. How can we help stop this practice?
Hunting causes pain and suffering to animals and disrupts the patterns created in the animal communities, such as wolf packs. How can people reduce hunting?
The animals in zoos are deprived of natural habitat and are forced to be near people. How can we make zoos as comfortable as possible for them?
The fur industry takes millions of animals’ lives away. How can people stop it?
One of the issues animal shelters face is the lack of public awareness. What are the strategies to improve their work?
Many animals live in abusive environments, where they’re neglected or physically hurt. What are the solutions to this problem?
Dog Hunters Association argues for the right to use dogs in hunting. How can we change their attitude towards animals?
Dogs from puppy mills are often poorly treated and suffer from a variety of diseases. How can this practice be stopped?
Due to human activities, many animals are on the brink of extinction. How can we protect endangered species?
Dog meat is still used for human consumption in some parts of Asia. What are the ways to stop the inhumane trade?
Some animal species are sold, either alive or dead, to various countries. What are the ways to stop the wildlife trade and keep animals safe in their natural environment?
One of the primary reasons for animal extinction is poaching. What are the solutions to this issue?
After adopting animals, some people decide that they no longer want them and send them to shelters. How can we prevent this from happening?
Killing horses for meat is inhumane, and horse meat consumption is dangerous. How can we stop these practices?
With more forests being cleared for farming and building, wild animals lose their natural habitats. How can people make safer environments for them?
Ring fighting leaves animals with severe wounds that might lead to death. What can we do to stop it?
Some countries continue to kill whales for commercial purposes, which threatens their existence. How can we stop whaling?
The continuation of the ivory trade results in thousands of elephants being killed annually. What actions should be taken to stop it?
Factory farms work to maximize profit, which is why animals are kept in inhumane conditions. What are the ways to reduce this cruelty?

🔬 Science & Technology Problem Solutions Topics

Scientific and technological processes are complicated and riddled with issues. Advances in these fields increase as well as worsen the quality of human life. In case you’re interested in science or technology, have a look at these problem solution essay topics.

With the widespread use of technology, students can find everything online, which affects their critical thinking . What are the most effective ways to preserve this ability?
There’s a price we have to pay for living in a digital age . It includes the loss of online data privacy. What is the best way to maintain it?
To run research, scientists need large amounts of money, which often becomes an issue. How can they get more funding?
A significant percentage of research papers contain wrong results due to poor study design. What is the best way to improve it?
Scientists rarely want to replicate existing research. The results might turn out insignificant, and some studies are too hard to replicate. How can scientists be encouraged to do it nevertheless?
Peer review is meant to prevent poor-quality works from being published. Yet, it doesn’t always work. How can the peer review system be fixed?
Often, not everyone can access a published study due to journals being expensive. How can we make knowledge more accessible?
Many people are unaware of scientific research in crucial areas such as nutrition. What is the best way to communicate scientific facts to a larger population?
Cyber attacks are a significant threat to many businesses, as they involve the theft of large amounts of information. What are the ways to prevent them from happening?
Artificial intelligence implementation creates new challenges, such as the risk of unemployment. How can we solve emerging technological problems?
Technological advances allowed some countries to transition to cashless societies . While it has many advantages, it also creates some security concerns. What is the best solution for these issues?
With technology advancing at a quicker pace, it is harder to find talented personnel to work with it. How can you help the employees to adapt to new technologies?
While many researchers have ideas for studies, only a few get financial support for them. How can the government support scientists more effectively?

Mobile apps, social media, and games distract people from the real world. How can we stop smartphone addiction ?
Many graduating Ph.D. students have limited training for jobs outside of academic research. What can universities do to change the situation for the better?
Wearable computers, such as Apple Watch , have become very convenient. Yet, they create additional privacy and security issues. How can we overcome the challenges of body-borne computers?
Cyberbullying victims might experience psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and social exclusion. What is the best way to prevent it?
Environmental issues, such as air and water pollution , negatively affect the quality of life. How can technology help us save the environment?
Scientists are often obligated to publish research only with statistically significant results. How can bias towards certain studies be eliminated?
The constant stress and underpayment cause talented people to quit their careers in science. How can they be encouraged to continue working in their field?

🏠 Local Problem Solution Essay Topics

Another excellent idea for your essay is to write about the problems in your community. Think about the issues that need to be resolved, and start your writing. These topics will facilitate your creativity.

A significant number of people view affordability of healthcare as a pressing problem, as it is quite expensive. How can healthcare costs be reduced in your community?
Children may be exposed to hazardous labor, which can harm their health. What can be done to stop child labor in your country?
Youth violence increases the possibility of future behavior and mental health problems. How can people stop this type of violent behavior in your community?
The rise in rent prices makes housing hard to afford. How can housing in your country be improved?
People who leave school or college often feel unprepared for work. This makes them feel anxious about getting a job. How can school leavers in your country be helped to get employed?
When they get older, many young adults struggle to manage their finances. What is the best way to improve financial literacy in your community?
A good internet connection has become a necessity for many people. This also made access to high-speed internet a major issue. How can you solve this problem in your local community?
Drug addiction is a public health problem that affects many people, especially youth. What are the solutions to the drug abuse problem in your country?
Traffic congestion causes environmental issues, as well as vehicle breakdowns. What is the best way to stop this in your country?
Poverty leads to a lack of education, malnutrition, social exclusion, and limited access to other essential services. How can this problem be solved in your country?
Crime can cause short-term problems, like an injury, and long-term ones, such as depression or PTSD . How can illegal behavior be reduced in your community?
After graduating from college, many students face difficulties in finding a job. How can educational institutions in your country help graduates get employed?
Public transportation can be frustrating with its inflexibility and delays. How can it be improved in your country?
Lack of car parking areas is a common problem in urban areas. How can people solve this issue in your city?
Junk food advertisements target children, which later leads to an increase in childhood obesity. How can we protect young people in your country from being affected by these advertisements?
Hate crime affects the security of individuals and societies as a whole. How can such crimes be prevented in your community?
Corruption is a global issue that negatively affects the economic and political systems of the country. What are the measures to resolve this issue in your state?
Low fertility rates reduce the population size of a country. If your country has low birth rates, how can it be improved?
Media propaganda has the potential of promoting violent behavior and reducing trust in the government. How should this problem be dealt with in your country?
The number of acts of domestic violence against women, men, and children continues to grow drastically in many societies. How should these cases be handled in your country?

😄 Funny & Easy Problem Solution Essay Topics

Problems are not always serious and yet require a solution. Whether it’s a choice of cereal or a friend zone, it’s an issue that has to be dealt with. Take a look at the funny problem solution essay topics list, and choose the one you like the most.

We often buy items that we never use afterward. How can we prevent ourselves from buying unnecessary stuff ?
Your favorite soccer team keeps losing, and it’s affecting your mood. What’s the best way to cope with this continuous disappointment?
You’ve invented a cool, new nickname for yourself. How do you get people to use it?
You love playing League of Legends with your friend. They’re the worst support, but they insist on having this role. What should you do about it?
Santa Claus is a beloved figure for many children. But they can’t believe in him forever. How should parents tell their kids that Santa isn’t real?
Water is crucial to human survival. Still, some people don’t like its bland taste. How can you stay hydrated without resorting to unhealthy, sugary drinks?
Happiness matters, as it makes people feel at ease. What can you do to make your community happier?
Your partner loves jazz while you prefer death metal. How do you overcome this musical discrepancy?

A sturdy case can ruin the appearance even of the most beautiful phone. How can one compromise effectively on this issue?
House parties are fun, but your neighbors probably disagree. How can you throw a noisy party without upsetting those who live close by?
It’s hard to keep up the spark in long-distance relationships. Conversations via Zoom quickly get boring. What are fun things a couple can do together on the internet?
Many people believe that legalizing marijuana will reduce its consumption levels and solve social and economic issues. What are the other solutions to cannabis use?
Taking a perfect selfie requires much patience. How can you make creating a fantastic picture of yourself easier?
Pizza is great, but it’s not particularly healthy. How can you upgrade your favorite junk food to make it more nourishing?
Studies have shown that growing houseplants is good for the mood. But what do you do if you simply don’t have a green thumb?
Exercising is important, but it’s not fun for everyone. What can unathletic people do to stay fit without suffering?
Being the funny one among friends often prevents people from taking you seriously. What can change people’s attitude towards you?
Some people face the issue of “having a lot of clothes, but nothing to wear.” How can we fix this problem?
Your friends want to go on a trip soon, but you’re broke. What are the best strategies for students to save $100 in four weeks?

🤔 Other Problem Solution Essay Topics

What can we do about the problem of smoking in teenagers?
Obesity as a global problem of modern society
Reading problems and how to help students with reading disabilities
The solutions to environmental effects of e-waste
Potential solutions to noise pollution
The migration issue and how to solve it
The discussion and solution of COVID-19 ethical dilemma
The problem of lack of parking in big cities and how to help it
Nursing shortage as a national healthcare issue
Agriculture in Honduras: existing challenges and possible solutions
The issue of patient safety
The problem of safety and efficiency amidst staff deficiency
The problem of substance abuse and mental health issues within the homeless African American community
The issue of medically assisted suicide
The problem of obesity in India
Medicare challenges and issues facing America
The problem of institutional racism: effects and possible solutions
Contemporary issues in health care delivery
Solution of every-day problems: scientific method
The issue of genetically modified crops
Librarian management consultancy: challenges and solutions
The software patent issues in China
The solution to compassion fatigue and related issues in nursing
Is e-cigarettes smoking a solution?
Problems in a contemporary health environment and how to overcome them
American government contemporary issues
Can obesity problem be solved by proper nutrition and exercise?
Diversity and cross-cultural issues in the global workplace
Ethical issues and dilemmas in business
Finding solutions for ethical dilemma
Translating Emirati proverbs: problems and solutions
How to solve traffic congestion in my school district
The Rock Blocks company’s recruiting issues and solutions
Staffing problem solution: HR metrics and workforce analytics
Solving the health problems of the United States
Possible solutions to health disparities
Problems of sitting for long and their solutions
Will banning plastic bags not solve pollution problem?
Problem of predicting fluid responsiveness and its solution
Escalating drug prices: the ways to avoid the problem
The best way to address obesity in the United States
Solution to the world poverty problem
Gun violence: the ways to overcome the issue
Design solutions for improving website quality and effectiveness
Is simplification the best way to express ideas?
Fairtrade: better solution to underdevelopment
The problem of drug addiction in America and the solutions to it
Can charging children as adults solve juvenile criminal problems?
Stress in law: reasons and solutions
The ways to solve the increasing incidence of criminals reverting
Communication solutions for atmospheric scientist
Are financial rewards the best way to increase work motivation?
The environmental effects of the deforestation problem and how to solve it
Recycling: finding the solution
The use of the Internet to solve crimes
The solution to social inequality and discrimination
Encryption as a corporate security technological solution
Principal threats to a building efficiency research and ways to overcome them
Lack of social tolerance as the cause of discriminatory behavior problem and its solutions
Environmental problems and their potential solutions
Why technostress is harmful to psychological well-being and ways to reduce it
Infant’s health: growth problems and solutions
Community policing: the alternative solution to youth crime
Strategies to overcome the organization’s problem due to community losses
Metropolitan police service: identity management solution
The problem of sexual harassment in the army and the ways to eliminate it
Reasons of anti-Asian crimes and ways to deal with the problem
Green logistics: implementation issues and solutions
Technological solutions for effective communication
Ways to defend against cyber terrorism
Workplace conflict problem and its solutions
Doha negotiations: possible solutions and outcomes
Handling difficult conversations and ways to avoid conflict escalation
Healthcare in Canada: problems and solutions
Problem of verbal orders in medicine and how to overcome it
Law contracts and ways to break the contract
Cinemark USA, Inc.: problems and solutions
Air pollution solutions: how to improve air quality
The problem of homelessness in Los Angeles and the ways to reduce it
Jamaica’s economy: problems and solutions
Solutions to poverty in urban areas
Australian economy: economic problems and ways of its solving
Decrease the disparity between rich and poor solution
Lebanon’s environmental problems and solutions
Ways of treating obesity in older patients
The global water crisis: issues and the ways to avoid them
The Bauer school’s parking problem and solution
Ways of reducing human trafficking of children
Heartland payment system data breach problem solution
Immigration policy in US. problem and how to solve it
The ways to overcome the investment problem
The problem of dysfunctional companies and its solution
Du Bois vs. Washington: racist problem solution
Fad diets’ impact on human health: problem solution
Environmental challenges for NAFTA and how to solve them
Three solutions to the problem of pollution externalities
Buying things to solve personal problems
Remington Peckinpah Davis Inc.’s problem solution
Problem solution: best snacks INC.
Solutions to the problem of steroids in sports and athletics
Problem solution: global communications
The problem of global warming and ways of its solution
Cyber-bullying and ways to solve the problem
Losses of personal data: problem and solution
Obamacare: the solution to the healthcare problem
The problem of Palestinian-Israeli conflict and viable solution
The problem of coral reef depletion and how to address it
Social security long-term solvency problems
Economic crisis: bailout plan as solution
The problem of anterior spacing in dentistry female patients and possible solutions
Rising sea levels: how to reduce the global concern
Organ trafficking problem and policy solution
Cultural issues and their solutions in project management
Transforming the Texas plant: possible solutions to the problems
Nursing understaffing and evidence-based solution
Critical thinking to solve hard problems
Healthcare disparities and the ways to overcome them
Pressure injury prevention: evidence-based solution
Nursing stress solutions: benefits and support
The problem of violence in nursing and its solutions
What is the best way to stimulate economic growth?
Decision making process in management: problem solving
Pressure ulcers issue and defense of solution
Land pollution and ways to minimize pollution in the US
Vancouver’s housing crisis and solution
The problem of stress and solutions for working students
Seven ways to find help in starting a business
Courtelaney Pass police department: potential problem solutions
The problem of plagiarism, its reasons and solutions
Ways of managing conflict
Political corruption and how to address it
Low wages and inequality problem and its solutions in the USA
Child abuse and ways for its elimination
The problem of infant mortality issue in India: possible solutions
Domestic violence problem and the ways to overcome them
Ways of avoiding cross-cultural miscommunication
Risk incidence solution to the problem of substance use disorder
Is assisted suicide a humane solution?
Successful ways of preventing crime by Blundell
Iron seeding oceans: global warming solution

Thank you for reading this article! Hopefully, these topics will help you write your problem-solution essay. Also, don’t forget to send this article to your friends, who might find it useful!

60 Innovative Problem-Solution Essay Topics

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The key to getting a great grade is finding a problem-solution essay topic about which you feel passionate. These innovative ideas are designed to spark your interest and make you want to research and write an amazing essay . These essay prompts present a problem and urge you to find the best solution. That solution and the problem statement become the thesis of your essay.

Problem-Solution Essay Topics About Animals

If you’re passionate about animals and animal rights, try one of these problem-solution essay ideas:

In some habitats, natural predators have been driven out by human activity. This results in animals like deer or rabbits overpopulating the area and competing with one another for food. What is a good solution?
Some of the most beautiful natural parks in the world are also home to endangered animals. When people access the parks, they may disturb the animals living there. What can parks do to solve this problem?
Global climate change may affect the habitat for many animals and cause some species to move into other animals’ habitats. What can people do to help?
Plastics are polluting the oceans and causing animals to become entangled in these materials. What is a good way to help?
Sometimes, people adopt pets on a whim and decide they no longer want to provide a home for these pets long term. How can society prevent this from happening?
Many homeowners kill poisonous snakes if they find them in their home or on their property. Is there a more humane way to protect the people living in the home from venomous snake bites?
Some farmers are choosing to let their chickens be “free range” instead of raising them in potentially inhumane settings with minimal opportunity for movement or quality of life. However, it takes more time and space to raise chickens this way and collect the eggs, and free range eggs are often more expensive for consumers. How can farmers make free range eggs more affordable?
With high demand for certain animals and parts of animals, poaching is a problem in many parts of the world. What is a good solution?
Tall structures like buildings, cell towers, and wind turbines can be dangerous for migratory birds. What is a good way to protect these birds?
Irresponsible dog breeders sometimes disregard the health and safety of their animals and run “puppy mills” to produce as many purebred puppies as possible. How can people change this behavior?

Problem-Solution Essay Topics About Psychology

Psychology offers many great topic possibilities for problem-solution essays. Write about one of these ideas involving how people think and how they interact with one another:

Eating disorders affect millions of people in the world and present a unique challenge for mental health professionals and society in general. What can society change to help prevent people from developing eating disorders?
Some advertisements and propaganda use people’s fear to make them act a certain way or purchase a product. How can consumers be better critical thinkers and become less vulnerable to this type of messaging?
Many teenagers struggle with depression. How can parents and teachers help?
Memories are highly subjective and can change based on new information or influence from another person. What are some ways to tell whether a memory is real?
Some parents of children with special needs struggle to seek help for their children. However, many disorders respond to early intervention. How can society help parents get help for kids who need it?
Despite a lot of effort, many students still face bullying at school and online. What can society do to help?
In many countries, senior citizens face the mental health issue of being isolated and lonely. What are some ways to get seniors the social contact they may need?
As they grow up, boys and girls are exposed to stereotypical gender roles in terms of toys, praise, expectations, and more. How can these stereotypes be changed?
Some parents place a great deal of pressure on their children to be successful in school and in life. When unexpected challenges arise or the children don’t perform according to the parents’ standards, this can be emotionally devastating for everyone. What is a good way to keep this from happening?
Birth order may affect how parents treat their children and how children come to see themselves. What are some ways for people to be more aware of how birth order may impact development?

Environmental Problem-Solution Essay Topics

The environment is a social issue , a problem that is shared by everyone. That makes it a great source of topics for problem-solution essays. Try one of these ideas:

Not every country is doing its best to solve the problem of climate change. What is one thing that would help get all countries to do more?
Many streams and rivers are polluted from agricultural and manufacturing waste. What is one thing ordinary people can do to help clean up waterways?
Some communities actively resist wind farms or solar farms because they don’t like how these installations look or how they change the view of the countryside. What is a way to convince these communities?
Monarch butterflies are becoming rarer due to a type of weed killer. What can people do to help?
Food waste is bad for the planet because the energy used to produce that food is wasted. What’s more, the wasted food ends up in a landfill, where it produces methane as it rots. What is a way to reduce food waste?
Air pollution is a major problem in many world cities. What can people do to help?
Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gasses. What are some ways to reduce the impact?
The oceans are becoming more acidic, and many experts believe that the problem will only worsen if society continues to function as it does now. What needs to change?
The Earth’s population has been growing quickly over the past few centuries, and this contributes to a variety of environmental problems. What is a good way to solve this problem?
Genetically modified crops may produce more food, but they also present environmental challenges to biodiversity. What is a good solution?

Health Topics for Problem-Solution Essays

Another great source of problem-solution essay topics is health. One of these ideas may be perfect for your essay:

Some parents refuse to vaccinate their children for a variety of reasons, but this can lead to outbreaks of dangerous illnesses like measles. What is a good way to solve this issue?
Starting a new exercise routine is difficult for many people. What are some ways to get in the habit of regular exercise?
Childhood obesity is a health issue facing many developed nations. What can parents do to help?
Certain foods may increase your risk of health problems like cancer and heart disease. How should people change their diets?
Some prescription medications are incredibly costly, making it impossible for some people to afford treatment. What should be done to help?
Many people in the United States live without health insurance. What would solve this problem?
Some societies still have a significant stigma surrounding mental health challenges like alcoholism, depression, and anxiety. What changes would make a difference?
Many children suffer from asthma, and some studies link the rate of asthma to air pollution. What needs to change?
Despite evidence that tobacco use causes cancer, some people still begin using tobacco. What should schools and government organizations do to prevent this?
Some states and countries have much higher rates of accidental death related to guns. What should these states do differently?

Time to Start Writing Your Essay

Once you have your topic, it’s time to brush up on how to write a problem-solution essay . You’ll find that it’s easier with a great idea like the ones on this list.

50 Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

Problem solution essays are a common assignment in academic writing, requiring students to identify a problem and propose a solution. The key to a successful essay lies in choosing a topic that is both relevant and thought-provoking. In this blog post, we will explore a range of problem solution essay topics that are sure to inspire you. From environmental issues to social justice concerns, we will cover a variety of topics to help you find the perfect subject for your next essay!

How Do You Select a Topic for a Problem Solution Essay?

When selecting a topic for a problem-solution essay, it is crucial to identify a problem that you are passionate about or have a deep understanding of. Secondly, choose a problem that is relevant and significant in society. Additionally, ensure that the problem is not too broad and has potential solutions that can be realistically implemented. Lastly, consider the availability of credible sources and research materials to support your arguments.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can select a topic that is both compelling and feasible for your problem and solution essay. This list of problem solution essay topics organized around 5 different areas of interest will help.

Environmental Issues

1. Implementing a carbon tax to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

2. Promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste

3. Investing in renewable energy sources and phasing out fossil fuels

4. Addressing the impact of plastic pollution on marine life

5. Encouraging sustainable transportation options and reducing reliance on cars

6. Protecting and preserving natural habitats and biodiversity

7. Promoting eco-friendly consumer habits and reducing single-use plastics

8. Addressing the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities

9. Implementing policies to reduce air and water pollution

10. Encouraging environmental education and awareness in schools and communities

Social Justice Concerns

1. The impact of systemic racism on access to education and potential solutions for creating a more equitable system

2. Addressing income inequality and the role of higher education in promoting economic mobility for marginalized communities

3. Exploring the intersection of gender or racial discrimination in the workplace and strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion

4. The disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on communities of color, and potential reforms to promote fairness and equity

5. The role of social media in perpetuating stereotypes and discrimination, and potential solutions for promoting a more inclusive online environment

6. The impact of environmental injustice on marginalized communities and potential solutions for promoting environmental equity

7. Addressing the lack of access to affordable healthcare for low-income and minority communities, and potential policy solutions for promoting health equity

8. The impact of immigration policies on undocumented students and potential solutions for creating a more inclusive and supportive campus environment

9. Potential strategies for promoting accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities

10. The role of privilege and allyship in promoting social justice, and potential actions that college students can take to advocate for marginalized communities

Look though other sociology reasearch topics for more ideas.

Health and Wellness

1. Managing stress and anxiety among a particualr group (e.g. college students, nurses , etc.) to improve retention and performance

2. Addressing the rising rates of obesity in children through school-based interventions

3. Implementing prevention programs and support services to tackle substance abuse among vulnerable groups

4. Enhancing sexual health and consent education to reduce the instances of rape

5. Viable strategies to tackle the impact of sedentary lifestyles on physical and mental health

6. Strategies to address or prevent the spread of a pandemic virus like Covid-19 (See more Covid-related essay topics )

7. The use of emerging technologies in healthcare to improve specific type of care (e.g. chronic disease management, palliative care) or reduce the workload of healthcare workers

8. Promoting responsible use of antibiotics to tackle the issue of antibiotic resistance

9. Exploring the negative impact of restrictive abortion laws and proposing alternative strategies for reducing the need for abortion ( Explore controversies surrounding the topic )

10. Strategies to reduce transplant organ shortage and/or organ trafficking ( Interesting facts and ethical concerns surrounding the topic )

Look though other controversial topics in healthcare for more ideas.

1. Exploring safeguards needed to ensure responsible development and use of AI technology

2. Policies needed to support low-skilled workers facing automation- and AI-related unemployment (See other policy topics to write about )

3. Effective strategies to prevent and address online harassment while not limiting the freedom of speech

4. Solutions needed to reduce the environmental impact of Internet technology, including the massive increase in the amount and scale of data centers ( Find out more )

5. Potential ways to protect individuals’ personal data and prevent identity theft in an increasingly interconnected world

6. Developing robust verification mechanisms and preventative measures to combat deepfake misinformation

7. Proposing strategies to address gaming addiction

8. Strategies to harness space debris and implement sustainable practices in space exploration

9. Potential problems associated with gene editing and cloning and effective ways to regulate the field of gene engineering

10. Establishing comprehensive ethical guidelines for surveillance technologies to mitigate violation of civil liberties

Look though other argumentative essay topics about technology for more ideas.

Family and Education

1. Addressing the issue of domestic violence: strategies for prevention and intervention

2. The challenges of blended families: navigating the complexities of step-parenting and co-parenting

3. Addressing the issue of neglectful parenting and its impact on young children’s cognitive and social development

4. Effective prevention and intervention programs to address bullying in schools

5. Addressing the root causes of college dropout rates

6. Fostering inclusivity and understanding among students from different backgrounds

7. Teaching financial literacy in schools to promote financial responsibility of the nation

8. Implementing comprehensive mental health support systems in schools as a way to adress the mental health crisis in America

9. Exploring alternative assessment methods to minimize the impact of standardized testing on students’ well-being

10. Strategies to address the challenges associated with large classes

Problem solution essays not only help students develop their writing skills but also encourage them to think critically and creatively about important global issues. By choosing a topic you are passionate about, you can engage in meaningful research and critical thinking. Hope this list of problem solution essay topics has helped you find a great idea and inspired you to delve into and come up with innovative solutions!

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Problem-solution essays Situation-problem-solution-evaluation

Problem-solution essays are a common essay type, especially for short essays such as subject exams or IELTS . The page gives information on what they are , how to structure this type of essay, and gives an example problem-solution essay on the topic of obesity and fitness levels.

What are problem-solution essays?

Problem-solution essays consider the problems of a particular situation, and give solutions to those problems. They are in some ways similar to cause and effect essays , especially in terms of structure (see below). Problem-solution essays are actually a sub-type of another type of essay, which has the following four components:

The 'situation' may be included in the essay prompt, in which case it will not be needed in the main body. If it is needed, it can often be included in the introduction, especially for short essays, as with the example essay below . The 'evaluation' may be included as part of the conclusion (also as in the example below), or omitted altogether, especially for short essays. For these reasons, problem-solution essays are more common than situation-problem-solution-evaluation essays (or SPSE essays).

There are two main ways to structure a problem-solution essay. These are similar to the ways to structure cause and effect essays , namely using a block or a chain structure. For the block structure, all of the problems are listed first, and all of the solutions are listed afterwards. For the chain structure, each problem is followed immediately by the solution to that problem. Both types of structure have their merits. The former is generally clearer, especially for shorter essays, while the latter ensures that any solutions you present relate directly to the problems you have given.

The two types of structure, block and chain , are shown in the diagram below. This is for a short essay, which includes the 'situation' in the introduction and 'evaluation' in the conclusion. A longer essay, for example one of around 1,000 words, with citations , would probably have these two sections as separate paragraphs in the main body.

Example essay

Below is a problem-solution essay on the topic of obesity and poor fitness . It uses the block structure . Click on the different areas (in the shaded boxes) to highlight the different structural aspects in this essay, i.e. Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation. This will highlight not simply the paragraphs, but also (for problems and solutions) the thesis statement and summary , as these repeat the problems and solutions contained in the main body.

Consumption of processed and convenience foods and our dependence on the car have led to an increase in obesity and reduction in the fitness level of the adult population. In some countries, especially industrialized ones, the number of obese people can amount to one third of the population. This is significant as obesity and poor fitness lead to a decrease in life expectancy , and it is therefore important for individuals and governments to work together to tackle this issue and improve their citizens' diet and fitness. Obesity and poor fitness decrease life expectancy. Overweight people are more likely to have serious illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease, which can result in premature death. It is well known that regular exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, which means that those with poor fitness levels are at an increased risk of suffering from those problems. Changes by individuals to their diet and their physical activity can increase life expectancy. There is a reliance today on the consumption of processed foods, which have a high fat and sugar content. By preparing their own foods, and consuming more fruit and vegetables, people could ensure that their diets are healthier and more balanced, which could lead to a reduction in obesity levels. In order to improve fitness levels, people could choose to walk or cycle to work or to the shops rather than taking the car. They could also choose to walk up stairs instead of taking the lift. These simple changes could lead to a significant improvement in fitness levels. Governments could also implement initiatives to improve their citizens' eating and exercise habits. This could be done through education, for example by adding classes to the curriculum about healthy diet and lifestyles. Governments could also do more to encourage their citizens to walk or cycle instead of taking the car, for instance by building more cycle lanes or increasing vehicle taxes. While some might argue that increased taxes are a negative way to solve the problem, it is no different from the high taxes imposed on cigarettes to reduce cigarette consumption. In short, obesity and poor fitness are a significant problem in modern life, leading to lower life expectancy . Individuals and governments can work together to tackle this problem and so improve diet and fitness . Of the solutions suggested, those made by individuals themselves are likely to have more impact, though it is clear that a concerted effort with the government is essential for success. With obesity levels in industrialized and industrializing countries continuing to rise, it is essential that we take action now to deal with this problem.

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Compare & contrast essays examine the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences.

Cause & effect essays consider the reasons (or causes) for something, then discuss the results (or effects).

Discussion essays require you to examine both sides of a situation and to conclude by saying which side you favour.

Problem-solution essays are a sub-type of SPSE essays (Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation).

Transition signals are useful in achieving good cohesion and coherence in your writing.

Reporting verbs are used to link your in-text citations to the information cited.

The Definitive Guide to Writing a Problem Solution Essay

06 February, 2021

13 minutes read

Author: Josh Carlyle

In this article, we cover the basics of problem solution essay writing. We will explain what a problem and solution essay is in academic and straightforward terms. We shall also cover the four essential components that make this essay coherent. With these four components in mind, we will offer guidance on the outline structure and provide some general writing tips on research and problem solving, as well as some topics and essay samples.

What is a Problem Solution Essay?

A problem solution essay is a staple of humanities and social science subjects. These essays cover a pressing issue, examine how it causes problems, and offer solutions to these problems. The topic for problem solution essay papers can be incredibly diverse. The problem could be local, regional, or global. It could affect a wide range of people or be part of the discourse on an arcane and obscure aspect of computing.

If you are wondering how to write a problem solution essay, look no further than its name. The core of a problem solution essay is in the title. In this type of essay, a problem is presented, and a solution is offered. Doing this well requires presenting the issue in an audience-appropriate way and then offering solutions that thoroughly negate any critiques of those solutions.

4 Components of a Problem Solution Essay

In a problem and solution essay, the following aspects must be included:

The Situation: this opening part is where the foundation of the problem lies. It is not an introduction in the sense that you may be familiar with or an abstract that covers the entirety of your thesis. Rather, it is a short and straightforward briefing that will make a layperson familiar with the situation at hand.
The Problem: this part provides specifics of the problem. Detailed dissections of evidence take place here; we’ll summarise those later in the evaluation section.
The Solution: this component covers push-back specific solutions you may encounter. Part of a correct answer is thinking of your opponents’ perspectives and ensuring that they address their assumptions and points.
The Evaluation: in this section, it is crucial to write with brevity and wit; this will make your position memorable. Readers will often remember the last part of essays they read, so make sure it represents a microcosm of your essay as a whole.

These components are the essence of the structure required in a problem solution essay. The actual structure you will work with will require a finer granulation of sections. For instance, in the solution section, the critiques will also need to have a review applied, demonstrating their lack of applicability or irrelevance.

Problem Solution Essay Outline

The best guide for a problem solution essay outline is the four components mentioned above. Cover the situation, the problem, the solution, and then evaluate both or all sides of the story.

To drill down further into the outline, you should have an introduction that will set out your paper’s structure. Then you should present the situation. Keep this section free from emotive language. Use it to ensure the reader has all the facts, and imagine that you want everyone reading the paper to be on a level playing field in terms of knowledge and framing of the problem.

In the problem section, you must explain why there is a particular issue. At this point in your essay, ensure that you do not leave the door open to other causes of the problem. Find ways to make the problem something that the reader cares about and wants to solve, but beware of assuming the reader is on your side simply because you’ve said some things and made some points.

Once the situation has been explained, and the problem elucidated, present your solution. It should use evidence, and you should be able to explain how it directly relates to the question. Don’t use ad hominem attacks or go polemic. Unravel the problem with your solution. Take it to step by step and keep your writing composed.

In the evaluation section, you should find your argument’s weaknesses and the views that find fault with your solution.

How To Find Solutions to Your Problems

You can find solutions to your problems by researching them; someone will have asked the question before, or one very similar to it. You can talk to your peers and even conduct polls on social media to gauge the public’s position on various solutions.

Another way of finding solutions include flipping your perspective. Take the position of the other side and see the world through their gaze. By putting yourself in the opponent’s shoes, you can see weaknesses in your ideas and perhaps adjust them to take on more relevance to more people or factor in an aspect that you had overlooked.

Ultimately, the best way to find solutions is to read and read some more. Try looking in your library if you prefer books to the internet, but don’t leave Google out of it. Using the search engine correctly, you can dig up all kinds of books, papers, and presentations that will be very useful in your studies.

Problem Solution Essay Topics

The list of problem solution essay topics is very long. As mentioned earlier, the problem can be a local issue, affecting a specific demographic or being universal. Regardless of the topic you choose, there are another million waiting for an answer.

To start you off, the climate crisis is an excellent area for debate.

How do we deal with stranded assets in the fossil fuel industry and financial sector?
What should the laws be surrounding new cars run on petrol and diesel?
How should electrification be carried out in developing nations? Is a carbon tax a viable way to reduce emissions?

Other problem solution essay ideas might include social media’s effect on dopamine levels, gerrymandering in electoral districts, or the working week’s length.

Problem Solution Essay Examples

Reading previous papers is a fantastic method to improve your grades. Study essays that get top marks and some of the ones which get lower marks. The difference will be apparent in their vocabulary, logic, and evidence. Read a few problem solution essay sample papers but don’t plagiarize them; always cite your sources. Here are a few examples to help you get started:

https://www.eapfoundation.com/writing/essays/problemsolution/

https://www.ieltsbuddy.com/problem-solution-essays.html

Writing Tips for a Problem Solution Essay

An essay is a complex task to complete. That’s why it’s useful to break down the whole into several steps.

Step one is to conduct some thorough research and planning. If you have free choice over the problem at hand, then start by brainstorming some groups you belong to and decide whether they’re officially mandated ones like a sports team or a club, or broader, like your sex, gender, nationality, or language grouping.

After this, jot down some issues in the groups. Are you struggling to manage the payment plan for your sports hall? Has there been an instance of bullying or shaming in your school? With the topic in mind, move onto research.

When researching your topic, it’s always useful to remember that there is nothing new under the sun. It is almost definite that similar problems have arisen before, and most solutions already exist.

Then, conduct and compose a literature review on the topic. A literature review is an excellent addition to your essay as a standalone section. It helps to situate your issue within the world and builds relations to other similar problems.

You may think you have nothing to say about the problem or find it hard to justify your opinion. Well, in the problem solution essay, your voice matters. Always try to back up what you’re saying through evidence and try not to stray into writing a polemic. Yet, passion and emotion are useful tools for framing the problem. Just try not to make these responses the whole essay.

As far as solving problems goes, you can use some general mechanics to come up with solutions. The following paragraphs will present some of these logical mechanics; feel free to use them in your writing:

Add something new: this solution works when something is lacking. The problem may be a lack of funding, equipment, or motivation. The assumed problem when using this angle of attack is that there is a lack of resources available. Concrete examples of this could include more teaching assistants in education, longer opening hours at a library, or more significant legislation to protect the environment.
Remove something: this is the inverse of the previous point. Inversing is a useful strategy for thinking about problems in general. If something is too crowded or too busy, it might be a solution to limit exposure to something and devise a solution.
Education: learning is a more specific aspect of ‘adding something’; it presupposes that a lack of information and awareness is the cause of the problem. If people had this knowledge, the theory goes that the issue would disappear or reduce because people could make informed decisions and correct their behavior.
Enforcement: if something like school rules, or even the law, is being ignored, proper enforcement might be a solution. Enforcement has its own sets of problems. This angle is an excellent way to write an unfolding and varied essay as it requires lots of discussion around proper enforcement. Making people do things they don’t want to do is a tricky situation and is riddled with structural and psychological issues.
Compromising: proposing compromise through mediation or bi-partisan effort is another complex solution. To work effectively, it has to involve people who possess robust negotiation techniques. But settlements happen all the time, so they’re a powerful solution to many problems. It may be useful to learn about zero-sum and relative issues to argue this case correctly.
A change in leadership: leaders can become stale and cumbersome; they may get weighed down by responsibility and have a low tolerance for change. Although, many problems require systemic changes, such as the climate crisis. With an established leader in charge, progress could be slow as they may be blinkered by their position. In this case, they are proposing an election or vote of confidence as a solution that can break the deadlock and offer people a chance to voice their concerns through voting.

One could surmise that the problem and solution essay is an incredibly relevant style of writing. By dissecting an issue and coming up with solutions, you learn a skill that is useful in many careers and practices. But writing one effectively requires both passion and perseverance; writing about topics that move us, though letting the fire burn too brightly, can put readers off or lead them to ignore their blind spots.

Follow the structures set out above and make sure to proofread your essays before submission. Finding a good editor is always a positive step; they can help to rephrase your words so that your argument comes across more fluently.

Writing drafts is good practice, although not always possible due to time constraints. Ideally, you should work through two drafts before submitting a final piece; if the essay makes up a small part of your overall grade, adjust the drafting process accordingly.

Write a Problem Solution Essay with HandmadeWriting

Problem solution writing has been speaking truth to power for millennia. HandmadeWriting loves seeking solutions as much as it loves a simple academic essay or lab report. It’s hard to become a good essay writer without getting critical at times. That’s why we pride ourselves on producing some of the most compelling content around. So be the next one to enjoy our writing and get an A+ for it.

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The Ultimate Guide to Write Effective Problem Solution Essay
Mastering The Art of Academic Essay Writing With Examples

Problem-solution essay is a common type of expository essay in academic writing. These essays are usually assigned to students in higher levels of education because they require effective research on the topic before providing foolproof solutions to the problems.

What is a problem-solution essay
Structure of a problem-solving essay
Introduction element:hook
Introduction element:background brief
Introduction element: thesis statement
Introduction element: outline
Body paragraph of a problem-solution essay
Conclusion of a problem-solution essay

If you are also a student, there are possibilities that you will also get the task of writing an essay for a college/school assessment. Most probably you have gotten one and that’s why you are here we guess.

Besides, we know that researching and writing a problem and solution essay can be a head-scratcher sometimes. Moreover, students often get confused with the structure, thesis statement, and what to write in the body paragraphs of a problem solution essay. Lack of proper knowledge in writing a good problem and solution essay could result in lower credits.

However, before writing a problem solution essay, it is essential to identify the right problem that needs to be discussed in the essay. For this, you need to effectively brainstorm some of the ideas and then choose the right problems to address unless the topic is already assigned by your professors.

Now that you have effectively chosen a good topic for writing, you must go through a stepwise approach for writing an impressive problem solution essay. So, before starting to write an essay, it is essential to know what exactly is a problem-solution essay.

What is a problem-solution essay?

As the name suggests, a problem solution essay offers the solutions to a specific problem discussed in the essay. The problem solution essay intends to present either multiple solutions to a single problem or one ideal solution to the problem discussed in the essay.

In the book, Fusion: Integrated Reading and Writing (2016), the author Dave Kemper defined a problem-solving essay, “This sort of essay involves argumentation in that the writer seeks to convince the reader to take a particular course of action. In explaining the problem, it may also need to persuade the reader concerning specific causes”. To understand the problem-solving essay more comprehensively, let’s have a look at some of the example topics of problem-solving essays.

Elaborate on some of the effective solutions to reduce poverty.
Describe solutions to the problem of rising drug abuse in adolescents.
Elucidate the measure that can be taken to prevent human trafficking.

To continue, as seen in the above examples, some critical social problems are addressed and effective solutions need to be presented. Problems can be complex social issues like drug abuse or environmental problems like climate change that concern the entire planet. In most problem-solution essays, the problems are peculiar and have large scale implications.

But in order to effectively present a problem and its foolproof solutions, it is necessary to follow the right structure of writing a good problem solution essay. So, let’s get started with the structure.

How to structure the problem-solving essay?

Giving the right structure to an essay is an important aspect of writing a good essay because the better the structure, the more easily your reader or audience can navigate through your essay. In the case of a problem or solution essay, the structure is even more important because through the right structure only, your audience would be able to understand the given problem and your provided solutions more effectively.

In the problem solution essays, the structure is quite similar to the other essays that start with an essay introduction and is followed by body paragraphs and conclusions. To simplify, the standard structure of a problem solution consists of four paragraphs in which the introduction usually starts with asking a question that reflects the main problem. Along with this, the introduction also consists of the outline and the thesis statement of the essay.

Various ways of structuring of problem solution essay

Following the introduction, as per standard structuring, there will be two body paragraphs in which one will talk about the problem while the paragraph will present the solutions. The number of paragraphs containing the problem and solution can be extended as per the desired length of the essay. In the end, the conclusion of the essay will be provided that will sum up the key arguments. Let us delve into the introduction of a problem- solution essay.

How to write the introduction of a problem-solving essay?

An introduction is an important aspect of an essay because through an impressive introduction only, you will be able to convince your readers to read your essay till the end. In the case of a problem-solving essay, your introduction should be engaging enough to give a clear idea to the readers about the given problem/situation and whom the problem majorly impacts.

However, while writing an introduction there are a few other important aspects that need to be taken into consideration.

The crucial aspect is that your introduction should always contain

Background information
Thesis statement

That being said, the further sections will deliberately explain all the elements one by one to give you a clear picture of writing essays. Besides, every section will contain a sample element of the essay topic: Elaborate on some of the effective solutions to reduce poverty.

Explanation through an example will assist you in better understanding how to write each element meticulously. So, let’s move ahead without further ado.

Introduction element: Hook of a problem-solving essay

A hook is a very first and crucial element of writing an engaging essay introduction. Its presence in the introduction of the essay will assist you in intriguing the curiosity of the reader that will encourage them to read till the end.

Besides, the hook in the introduction of a problem-solving essay could be of various types. It can be a fun fact/claim or an astonishing statistic that directly points toward the problem which will assist in grabbing the attention of the reader from the very beginning.

Besides, in the case of a problem solution essay, you can also create a hook by asking valid questions related to the problem discussed in the essay to involve your reader in your essay as well. As per our example, the sample hook is given below.

Sample hook

Approximately 85% of the world is currently living on less than $30 per day. More than two-thirds of the same lives on less than $10 per day. Moreover, every 10th person survives on less than $1.90 per day (Roser & Ortiz-Ospina, 2022).

After hooking the readers on interesting information, it is time to give background information about the problem.

Introduction element: Background brief of a problem-solving essay

The background information will be provided to make your readers understand the context of the essay. In the case of a problem solution essay, you will provide background information about the problem that will clearly answer a few of the given questions below.

What is the problem?
How big is the problem?
Whom does the problem majorly affect?

Background information will assist the readers in understanding the urgency of the problem and will also highlight the major reason behind the need for highlighting the problem. In accordance with our example, the sample background information is given below.

Sample background brief

Poverty is becoming a global issue and every coming day; the rich are becoming richer and the poor are becoming poorer. Hence making progress against poverty is becoming one of the most urgent goals of the globe today. People lying in the poor category often face challenges like hunger, less access to education, sanitation issues, and much poorer health.

After giving the readers the background information, it is now time to give the thesis statement of the problem solution essay.

Introduction element: The thesis statement of a problem-solving essay

The thesis statement refers to the brief summary of the central idea of the essay that is usually included at the end of the introduction before the outline of an essay. A thesis statement in a problem solution essay can be of two to three lines but irrespective of the length of the thesis statement, your thesis statement needs to clearly include,

Why is it a problem?
How does this problem impact the readers?
Why does this problem need to be solved?

Moreover, the thesis statement should naturally highlight a brief summary of the solutions that would be highlighted later in the discussion. However, the thesis statement does not need to present detailed solutions. In the case of our example of the sample essay, the thesis statement in the problem solution essay is given below.

Sample thesis statement

Poverty is still a problem because it brings other problems such as malnutrition, and sanitation issues along. It also hinders the growth of developed and developing nations which directly impacts the lives of other people as well. Alleviation of poverty will ensure enhanced living standards for the people and will provide them with better growth opportunities.

Following the thesis statement, the last paragraph highlights the outline of the essay.

Introduction element: Outline of a problem-solving essay

The outline of the essay is the last paragraph of the introduction that will deliberately guide your readers toward the main body paragraphs of the essay. In the case of a problem solution essay, it is a kind of roadmap that will further guide your readers on the given problem and solutions they will encounter in the body paragraphs of the essay respectively.

However, it is essential to note that the outline should always summarize the solutions rather than discuss them in detail.

Sample outline

In this essay, firstly different problems that occur from poverty will be discussed in the essay, along with some of the statistics validating the issue. Secondly, the essay will possess some of the main causes of the problem. Lastly, different solutions will be discussed in the essay that can assist in reducing global poverty.

After the meticulous explanation, comes the body paragraphs of the essay.

How to write the body paragraph of a problem solution essay?

Body paragraphs are the cornerstone of the essay that requires the utmost research and attention to detail. There can be multiple paragraphs or even more depending upon the overall length requirement of the essay. You can choose to present the body paragraphs in two ways, block or point-by-point.

The block method in a problem solution essay refers to describing the problem first and then presenting all the required solutions. Whereas the point-by-point method in a problem-solution essay refers to presenting all the problems and solutions simultaneously rather than going through all problems and all solutions separately. In writing the body paragraph of the problem solution essay, you need to keep the 3 Es in mind which stands for explain, expand, and example.

To elaborate, in each paragraph you will start by explaining the topic sentence. This topic sentence will underline the problem or the solution that will be discussed in the paragraph. After explaining the topic sentence, you will elaborate your point by validly expanding the topic sentence and supporting the topic sentence by giving evidence (if possible).

For example, if you are describing the problem, you will use some statistics or research to validate the problem. Other than that, if you are providing a solution, you will use stats or research to validate how your given solution is the most effective remedy. Lastly, you can provide examples in the cases to explain the topic sentence more effectively.

Besides, the last line of the paragraph will be the transition sentence forming cohesion between the current paragraph and the next paragraph describing whether your next paragraph will present another aspect of the problem or will discuss the solution.

Following the example of our topic, below given is the example of a body paragraph using the chain method explaining poverty as a problem, first.Following the example of our topic, below given is the example of a body paragraph using the chain method explaining poverty as a problem, first.

Sample body paragraph

Poverty is a concept that is more than about lack of income and productive resources to ensure that are required to ensure good and sustainable livelihoods. Poverty also brings along poor mental and physical effects like hunger, malnutrition, and limited access to education. Along with this, poverty also brings ensures humans depriving of basic services access which has also resulted in social, political, and economic discrimination. This burden of poverty has excluded many people and deprived them of participating in various decision-making processes. Hence, it is essential to discuss the various possible solutions and act upon them to eradicate poverty effectively.

How to write the conclusion of a problem solution essay?

Lastly, the conclusion is the last paragraph that will wind up your whole essay in the end. While writing the conclusion, firstly, you will restate the thesis statement. Further than that, in a problem solution essay, it is always better to conclude with an intriguing statement that leaves your reader thinking more about the problem further and makes an impactful ending.

Sample conclusion

To conclude, sometimes all it takes is a small effort from external factors to kickstart the alleviation of poverty by giving some cashflow maintenance to the people living under the poverty line. Hence, the need is to effectively understand the problem and make small changes to implement the solutions and make the world free of poverty.

To encapsulate, if you keep all the above-given tips and tricks given in the guide in mind before writing the problem-solving essay, we are sure that you will be able to write a problem-solving essay like a pro.

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Are you seeking captivating problem solution essay topics and brilliant suggestions for your paper? If so, you have come to the right place. Every student in school or higher learning institutions can discover enticing subjects and problem solution essay ideas that help prepare an excellent assignment. The first step in creating an essay that will capture readers' attention is choosing a topic. You can find great subjects using this article's exemplary problem solution topics and propositions as inspiration. These themes are categorized in a way that helps you quickly identify problem-solution essay subjects that interest you. This blog post will discuss how to choose excellent topics and ways of streamlining writing processes for students. Don’t have time for writing? Order an essay at StudyCrumb and forget about looking for problem and solution examples for years. Everything is simple – just share details and get a perfect piece matching your instructions.

What Are Problem Solution Essay Topics?

Problems and solutions essay topics offer specific, substantial but manageable issues that can be properly researched and analyzed. They focus on locating existing problems and offering workable remedies. In other words, a problem solution topic allows students to explore the issue at hand and suggest potential solutions. In addition to being very instructive, problem and solution topics are also comprehensive. Working with such papers can be challenging, but anything is possible with appropriate methods and extensive resources. Moreover, there is a truly wide variety of topics, and learners can select from the ones they feel most comfortable tackling. For instance, social, economic, cultural, and technological topics give students insight into different problems to write about.

Characteristics of Good Problem Solution Essay Topics

First things first, there should be enough information to research a good topic for a problem solution essay . Next, it is crucial to select for analysis good problem and solution topics that you are familiar with. Below is a list of things to consider for your problem solution paper topics.

The subject should have a well-defined issue.
It is advisable to employ unique vocabulary to engage your target audience.
The topic itself must be clear and simple to understand.
Its scope should be narrow enough.
Lastly, the topic should contain a main idea.

How to Choose a Problem and Solution Essay Topic?

Thinking small is the key to designing good problem and solution essay topics. Choose a particular issue that will result in formulating attainable and unambiguous goals. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to choose a problem solution paper topic.

Consider the audience: What requirements and interests do they have? Do they currently have any problems that they may be dealing with?
Take into account the scope of the topic: It can be challenging to conduct an in-depth study on a too broad topic. On the contrary, the audience might not find the issue fascinating or pertinent if it is too narrow.
Assess available resources: Do you have access to enough information? Are the sources trustworthy and current? Understanding the materials available might assist in deciding whether the subject is appropriate for a problem solution essay.
If you still find it hard to decide on a subject, ask your professor for help.

Problem Solution Essay Topics List

The best problem solution essay topics adequately present the argument and provide a comprehensive solution. Here are examples of ten best problems and solutions topics you can explore.

Ways of imparting financial education among youngsters.
Can the practice of self-defense lessen violent action?
How do managers handle external and internal disputes in organizations?
In universities, sexual assaults against women are frequently reported. What can we do to mitigate this issue?
The best method for companies to alleviate logistics issues.
Does enforcing gun laws prevent mass shootings?
Ways of stopping drunk driving.
How do we motivate individuals to adopt kids in the real world?
How protected areas save species from becoming extinct.
Using e-learning to cut education expenses.

Good Problem Solution Essay Topics

Good topics for a problem and solution essay should have a workable solution or a strong implementation plan. The most engaging and intriguing articles should focus on specific issues because such an approach will provide well-articulated answers. Here is a short list of good ideas for a problem solution essay you can draw inspiration from.

What steps can you take to dispel myths about feminist campaigns?
How can the negative lifestyle impact of video games on children be reduced?
What measures can be taken to stop COVID-19 from spreading?
How might families help in promoting a positive body image among kids?
What are some ways in which blogging can be improved?
How issues may be solved at work effectively.
Is it possible for a middle-aged person to change their job path? What can they do to achieve this?
How do I assist an individual who is depressed?
What steps should be taken to solve the texting-while-driving issue?
Is it appropriate to hold parents accountable for their child's bad lifestyle? What steps may be taken to avoid this issue?
Which strategies work best in lessening deception in real estate transactions?
How to handle your spouse's unreasonable expectations.
What steps may be taken to reduce or stop poverty?
Addressing flooding problems through erecting dams in high-risk areas.
How can we encourage more healthy standards of beauty?

Easy Problem Solution Essay Topics

Proposing a solution essay topics is a difficult task in general. However, if you want to concentrate on easy problem and solution essay topics, the following propositions will work wonders for you.

How do you deal with an envious partner?
What steps may be taken to stop child labor?
How confirmation bias affects the ability to solve problems effectively.
The impact of video games on an individual's capacity for problem-solving.
Steps that may be taken to boost participation at your preferred athletic event.
How do you maintain a successful marriage?
What modifications to the traffic regulations could be made to improve driving?
What is the best method of handling manipulative and overbearing individuals?
How can you improve the quality of life in your neighborhood?
What alternative approaches are there to marijuana use besides making it legal?
How can you simplify the process of creating a great image of yourself?
What are some healthy weight-loss options?
How can you maintain hydration without indulging in calorie-dense, sugary beverages?
What is the best way of eradicating poverty through wealth redistribution?
How should parents explain to their children that Santa Claus is a myth?

Interesting Problem and Solution Essay Topics

An interesting problem solving essay topics may spark discussions that last an hour or longer and provokes everyone around to participate in them. Furthermore, readers are more motivated to read writings on such engaging themes. Below is a list of interesting problem/solution essay topics you can choose from.

How can parents approach their kids' use of social networking sites?
How should a nation handle the problem of unauthorized immigration?
Can we stop rise of bigotry and prejudice?
How can society support marriage while preserving people's right to choose their sexuality freely?
How might parents stop their children from abusing drugs?
Ways in which young-age marriage can be used to combat social issues like adolescent pregnancies.
Addressing the problem of sexual abuse in colleges and universities.
What should be done to reduce gambling tendencies among students?
How do married couples improve their relationship?
Prevalence of domestic violence against both genders.
The risk posed by global warming is considerably more present today.
Why are teenagers abandoning their studies in great numbers?
How do teaching styles influence students' ability to solve problems?
Absenteeism issue might be resolved using Holmes' method.
How do organizations utilize digital platforms in advertising their products and services?

Funny Problem Solution Essay Topics

An incredible method of engaging readers in your problem solution topics is making them sound amusing. Here are a few insightful and fun problem solution essay topics you might focus on.

What benefit does having your phone robbed have?
Why does your partner whine so much? How could it be improved?
What enjoyable online activities can a couple engage in together?
How should your preferred junk food be made more nutritious?
What exercise options are there for folks who are not athletic?
Which methods will help learners save $100 in a month?
What is it that can alter how individuals feel about you?
How can you host a loud party without offending residents?
Ways of helping people who struggle with low self-esteem.
How can you encourage folks to use your pseudonym?
How do we stop ourselves from making impulse purchases?
Why is it that whenever I start giggling, I cannot stop?
How do you inform your partner that their cooking is terrible without offending them?
Ways in which 3D printing could fix the cooking issues in dormitories.
Having the best sense of humor among your pals frequently keeps them from treating you seriously. What can alter how others perceive you?

Local Problem Solution Essay Topics

Writing about existing issues in your area is a fantastic addition to your problem solution research paper topics. Some of such problems facing your locality may include drug abuse, pollution, or crime. Here are problems and solutions essay topics that you can select.

How to stop police violence.
Techniques for managing customer debt.
How can long-term joblessness be eliminated?
Debt management strategies for student loans.
What should your community do to lower medical costs?
How graduates may be assisted in finding employment.
What is the most effective strategy to halt traffic congestion?
How can the birth rate be raised if it is low?
Issues brought on by partisanship.
How can the problem of inadequate car parking spaces be resolved?
Ways in which youths should be prevented from illegal advertisements?
Strategies used by governments to prevent fraud in politics.
What steps can be taken to lessen the gender pay gap?
Ways of increasing state surveillance.
What should your municipality do to stop hate crimes?

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Problem Solution Essay Ideas for Students

The main priority of every learner when composing a problem solution essay is to choose interesting problem solution ideas after thorough consideration. Find a concept that you are passionate about. Select one of the many good subjects with a workable answer or a strong action plan. Although it may seem simple, a majority of students of various academic levels encounter difficulties when making this decision. The creative problem and solution essay ideas presented in this paper are meant to pique your curiosity. They will also motivate you to conduct further research and produce an outstanding essay.

Problem/Solution Essay Topics for Middle School

For many individuals, middle school is a particularly difficult time. Adolescents at this age feel like adults but are actually still youngsters. This issue and several other challenges contribute to an excellent collection of problem and solution essay topics for middle school. You are welcome to conduct your own study or choose one of the suggested ideas for problem solving topics.

How can we get youngsters to use bike helmets?
Methods of improving student performance in school.
Strategies that can be used in combating oceans' rising acidity.
Creative approaches used in delivering boring afternoon classes.
How to get teenagers to appreciate learning in general and academics in particular.
What are some ways to reduce the effects of greenhouse emissions caused by transportation?
Guidelines for caring for your pet without violating its rights.
How to create comics that aid students in understanding complex ideas.
Methods for lowering industrial noise pollution.
What additional creative courses can be added to the curriculum at middle school to help students' minds grow?
How can school settings be made less isolating?
Should learners have unlimited discretion in choosing courses they take?
How might society support and assist those who have autism?
How should parents prepare their middle schoolers for financial responsibility before they enter college?
What can educators do to support female adolescents clinging to the idealized pictures they see on media platforms?

Problem Solution Essay Topics for High School

High school students face a unique set of issues compared to middle school students, such as social life nuances. They may use these problems to prepare topics for a problem solution essay. Below is a list of problem and solution ideas that will streamline your essay writing process.

How can instructors stop negative consequences of physical punishment?
Why do high school students use drugs? What should be done about this?
What are the best ways for students to successfully cover their educational costs?
What should instructors do to ensure that learners gain the required knowledge?
Many academic institutions have rigid uniform policies. Is it possible to be unique without going against dress codes?
What can help learners who experience behavioral issues because of challenging home situations?
Practical approaches to issues of cell phone use in class.
Ways of stopping high school kids from procrastinating .
The cost of attending college is continually rising. What is the most effective way to reduce costs?
Secure methods that students can use to locate academic material on digital platforms.
Techniques for managing societal pressure in schools.
What strategies may students use in maintaining academic achievement while dealing with parental separation?
Practical strategies for eradicating stereotypes from society.
The issue of persistent student absenteeism and methods of dealing with it.
How should teenage pregnancy rate be minimized?

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

College students deal with issues different from those of high school and middle school learners. You should write problem solution essay topics for college on subjects that exhibit your capacity for information processing and data synthesis. Think large and demonstrate your ability to tackle prevalent college problems. You can select from a wide range of college problem solution essay topics below.

How to address racism in universities.
What is the best method for evaluating learners' performance?
How to assist first-year students in selecting the appropriate college courses.
What can be done to encourage more students to enroll in colleges?
Ways of stopping college students from participating in violent riots and demonstrations.
In what ways can college students begin making money?
Learning and hearing lectures can be more difficult in big lecture halls. What steps can colleges take to address this issue?
How can academics change the unfavorable perceptions that undergraduates have of them?
How to stop college students from participating in violent protests and riots.
What can be done to promote the mental well-being of students?
Ways in which academics change unfavorable perceptions that undergraduates have of them?
What is the most effective strategy for handling bullies in colleges?
How to bridge the gap between affluent and low socioeconomic students.
Methods of maximizing web-based learning during a lockdown.
What should be done to stop college students from pursuing romantic relationships?

Problems and Solutions Topics by Subject

You can explore many unique problem solution topics. When approaching a solution essay, you will be barely able to exhaust these ideas. Several more subjects, like technology and science, may be investigated in addition to the ones already mentioned. These unique suggestions will grab your curiosity and motivate you to research an outstanding problem solution paper topic. Problem-solving essays pose an issue and challenge you to come up with the best answer. This section gives an insight into different problems and solutions topics by subject.

Problem Solution Essay Topics on Science

There are many problem solution research papers in the field of science since scientific processes are convoluted and plagued with problems. The quality of an individual's life can improve or deteriorate due to advancements in this discipline. If scientific subjects interest you, look at the following ideas for problem solution essay.

How can researchers obtain more financing for research?
What is the most effective technique to spread scientific knowledge to a broader audience?
How can scholars be motivated to conduct experimental studies?
Ways in which people can be inspired to stay employed in scientific fields.
How can prejudice against studies be removed?
Methods of improving research paper outcomes.
What remedies are available to stop the ozone layer from thinning?
How might the use of genetic engineering help food supply?
What changes can be made to the peer review process to make it more effective?
How stem cells can be used to cure disease.
Reducing global waste through the use of nanotechnologies.
What technological advancements are necessary to lessen the likelihood of overpopulation on Earth?
How might the placement of microchips in a person's brain assist those who are paralyzed?
Using science to address the issue of alcohol addiction.
Scientific breakthroughs that could prevent a global environmental crisis.

Read more: Science Research Topics

Psychology Problem Solution Essay Topics

Issues related to psychology are widespread in modern society. The field has a ton of excellent options for developing problem-solution essay topics. Use one of the following ideas for problem solution essays regarding human thoughts, emotions, behavior, and mind.

How can customers develop their critical thinking skills?
How can people use apps to cope with anxiety and psychological illness?
How parents and educators assist students in managing depression.
Suicide is becoming a big issue for youths. What mitigating steps can we take regarding this?
How can one determine whether a memory is accurate?
Many adolescents still experience bullying online, despite multiple efforts. What assistance can society offer?
How can we provide elders with social interaction opportunities they may require?
What would be a decent method aimed at preventing parents from pressuring their kids to succeed in school?
Posttraumatic stress disorder is prevalent among people who undergo trauma. How can this condition be addressed?
Addiction deprives people of their ability to make constructive contributions to society.
America's psychological health is in poor shape. How can we improve it?
Ways in which mental trauma associated with anorexia can be managed.
How do educators assist young people who struggle with social skills?
What actions may parents take aimed at assisting their children in case of a new epidemic?
Continuous stress affects sleep quality. What methods can make it better?

View more: Psychology Research Paper Topics

Cultural Problem Solution Essay Topics

A group of individuals who share certain knowledge, habits, and beliefs is said to have the same culture. You would likely concur that it is a crucial aspect of mankind. That is why instructors frequently provide cultural ideas for a problem solution essay to research. Here are a few problem solution paper ideas that you can adopt.

How can individuals gain an appreciation for diverse cultures?
What are the cultural management issues that arise with a multicultural staff?
Best approaches to promote cross-cultural interaction.
What potential remedies are there for consumerism?
Strategies that can be used in advancing cultural diversity in businesses.
Healthcare disparities based on race and culture.
What methods can be used to lessen or stop cultural appropriation?
Steps that may be taken to lessen societal effects on the media's idealized body image.
Remedies that exist to address ageism.
Development of cultural relativism and a decline in ethnocentrism.
Ways of dealing with media propaganda.
Culture wars are a significant source of conflict.
Globalization's potential effects on a country's culture.
Actions that could be taken to lessen adverse effects of the fast fashion sector on consumerism.
Media and other outside cultural influences destroy national cultures.

Political Problem Solution Essay Topics

Politics is a topic that all people are concerned about. Your acts and inactions will, in one way or another, affect the state of your nation. There is no denying several issues plagues today's politics. If you are searching for topics to write a problem solution essay on politics, look no further. Here is a selection of exciting problem topics for an essay.

How can human trafficking be stopped legally?
How can more people be encouraged to cast ballots during elections?
Ways of avoiding political confrontations.
What steps should be taken by governments to reduce post-election violence?
What should governments do to increase the availability of fresh, nutritious meals?
Actions that the government should take in addressing assimilation problems for immigrants.
Ways in which legislation restricts sources of funding used by democratic figures.
What can states do to enhance the lives of disabled people?
Techniques for preventing piracy.
Sexism in international politics.
What kind of situation has the biggest impact on voting behavior?
Is limiting immigration an honest approach to boosting wages?
Ways in which diplomacy can be used in lessening military aggression worldwide.
How can laws and regulations improve the sustainability of the food sector?
What methods may sub-Saharan nations use to run their economies independently of international aid?

>> View topics: Topics in Political Science

Problem Solution Essay Topics for Business

When running a company, many problems can arise - for instance, marketing tactics or cybersecurity. If you are interested in business, you can pick numerous topics for problem solution essays. Below is a list of problem ideas for your essay that focuses on solving problems.

What can we do to improve job satisfaction?
How can innovation be achieved without raising prices?
Ways of stopping shoplifting in a mall.
Individuals with fixed incomes and sizable cash reserves are negatively impacted by inflation. How is it to be prevented?
Many businesses collapse during the first year of operation. How can governments guarantee their longevity?
Low consumer volume and financial difficulties could be the outcome of poor marketing. What may be done to enhance a standard marketing plan?
How can you distribute limited resources most effectively?
Coping mechanism for stress in workplaces.
How do you establish a competitive advantage in a crowded market?
Methods of boosting productivity in organizations.
How can individuals prevent themselves from making bad investments?
A financial crisis may result in widespread job losses. How can downturns be avoided?
How companies should convince individuals to utilize performance metrics.
Staff turnover has a direct impact on corporations. How do we minimize it?
What should policymakers do to help small businesses in the event of another pandemic?

View more: Business Research Paper Topics

Problem and Solution Essay Topics on Education

Several problems with the school system need fixing to improve the overall quality of education. You will find some topics for problem solution essay in the list below. These problem cause solution topics are clear and straightforward.

Many educational institutions do not offer sufficient sex education programs. How might the stigma associated with this issue be reduced?
Measures that should be taken to deal with unruly and disobedient students.
When studying a subject, people with learning disabilities could feel frustrated. What adjustments can schools make to meet their needs?
How can academic institutions effectively support students with special needs?
What techniques can be used to lessen cheating?
What actions can the education system take to encourage diversity in schools?
What are the shortcomings of the American educational system as it stands today, and how can they be addressed?
How can learners be made interested in monotonous subjects?
Approaches that schools may adopt to encourage teamwork.
Ways in which students can use communication skills to handle bullying.
How can educational institutions devote more resources to extracurricular activities?
What ethical problems do universities face, and how can they be tackled?
What should be done to make education more widely available?
Ways in which educational establishments should protect students from minority groups.
Steps that schools can take to minimize the rate of dropouts.

Read more: Research Paper Topics in Education

Health Problems and Solutions Essay Topics

People frequently have trouble with their health, which is a crucial component of existence. As a result, this field serves as a solid source of problem solution paper topics. Below are health-related topics for a problem and solution essay.

How do we motivate individuals to take part in clinical studies?
The best way to look after cancer patients receiving treatment.
What should be done to increase the number of Americans who enroll in health insurance?
How can we assist those who are recovering from drug addiction?
Actions we may take to prevent obesity among children.
How can medical care be made affordable for everyone?
Measures for reducing prevalence of cardiovascular disease in the community.
Steps to address the growing health issues, including asthma, brought on by air pollution .
Management strategies for speech disorders.
How to provide enough oxygen for hypoxemia patients.
Ways of preventing flu during winter.
How people can be motivated to have regular health checkups.
How do we make sure those who are sick seek out primary care? How can primary healthcare be made available to everyone?
Schizophrenia is a challenging mental condition that significantly affects a person's life. What should society do to encourage people to get this condition treated?
What steps may be taken to stop Alzheimer's disease development?

>> View more: Public Helth Research Topics

Problem Solution Essay Topics About Animals

Before people came into existence, animals already inhabited our world. Many species disappeared or went extinct over time because of human activity. Factory farming, the fur trade, and poaching are all problems that need to be fixed. If you are interested in this subject, consider investigating one of the following problem solution research topics. These animal problem solution essay ideas are clear and easy to implement.

How can we save birds from hazards like high structures and wind farms?
What could be done to curb animal hunting?
How can we lessen water contamination, so that marine life is preserved?
What steps can be taken aimed at ending the dog meat trade?
How can the cost of veterinary care be reduced for all people?
Do animals need more rights? How can this be put into practice?
How will logging affect our environment? How can authorities stop this?
Ways of preventing commercial initiatives that use animal testing.
What steps must be taken to end the ivory trade?
Initiatives that may be taken to make wild animals' habitats safer.
How do we stop horse meat intake?
How can we prevent wild animals from being used in circuses?
The fur trade claims the lives of millions of animals. What should be done to stop this practice?
Many animals are raised in cruel conditions where they are physically harmed or mistreated. What are the options for resolving this issue?
Strategies that can be used to minimize poaching.

Environmental Problem Solution Essay Topics

Climate change is currently the most important environmental problem; however, it is not the only one. Yet more worldwide issues require attention, and students can use them for their solution essay topics. The following are problem essay topics for those who care about the environment.

What actions are necessary to secure renewable energy sources?
Natural catastrophes are caused by Earth's processes and negatively impact people's lives. How can we get ready for natural disasters?
What initiatives can be made to avert a shortage of energy resources?
An increase in UV radiation is caused by ozone loss. Along with other skin conditions, it causes cancer. How are we going to fix this issue?
Food waste is a major environmental issue because it uses cropland and water. How do we minimize it?
GMOs increase food output but may threaten biodiversity. What actions could be taken to address the issue?
How can oil spills in water bodies be cleaned up more quickly?
Home-based trash management techniques.
How can governments encourage organic farming?
Approaches used in preventing a rise in global temperatures.
Ways of stopping ice caps from melting.
What causes a global shortage of food resources? How can this issue be addressed?
How to minimize consequences of inappropriate zoning and biodiversity?
Using fluorinated gasses in freezers and hair care products significantly affects global warming. How may their negative effects on surroundings be reduced?
Cleaning up trash costs a large sum of money. How can the littering issue be resolved and entirely eliminated?

More ideas: Environmental Science Topics

Problem Solution Essay Topics on Technology

Technology involves intricate and problematic processes. Just like in science, these issues can either enhance or worsen modern life quality, so problem solution research essay topics in technology are of current importance and investigating them can make one feel like being on the cutting edge of human knowledge. Besides, technology has a lot of various aspects and subfields, allowing for a truly extensive selection of research problems. Below are insightful ideas that you can consider for your problem solution essay topic.

What should be done to minimize overdependence on technology?
What precautions are available to stop cheating during online exams?
Ways in which companies can protect users' confidentiality on social media.
How can food technology be used to eradicate global starvation?
Ways in which technological innovations can address drug dependency issues.
What precautions can you take to keep your kid from developing a smartphone addiction?
Given how swiftly technology develops, what remedies are available for annoying bugs?
Ways in which assistive devices may be used to help kids with visual impairment.
How can backup issues be resolved in companies?
Ways in which intelligence officers can use social media profiles to arrest criminals.
How can people coexist with robots at work without losing their jobs?
How to make technology infrastructure in smart cities better.
What are possible solutions for cybersecurity issues in cashless societies?
Wearable technologies raise new privacy concerns. How should problems of body-borne computers be solved?
What steps can be taken to prevent the loss of online data?

Browse through our blog for more essay topic ideas. Whether you need topics for an explanatory essay or cause and effect essay topics , we’ve got you covered.

Bottom Line on Problem Solution Essay Topics

A topic for a problem solution essay can be a fantastic method to investigate a wide range of problems and develop original answers. Students can create a thorough plan to deal with the issue by examining it, figuring out its cause, and coming up with remedies. Problem and solution essay topic ideas can also aid pupils in honing their critical-thinking abilities and improving their comprehension of the world. Researching the best topics for a problem solution essay can be a terrific approach to changing the world if chosen with attention and consideration.

We are here to remind you that our academic writing services are at your disposal. If you require a high-quality, professionally written, and simply fantastic essay, we are just the ones to help.

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130 best problem solution essay topics.

It is quite ironic that the first problem you encounter in problem solution essays is choosing the best problem solution essay topics!

However, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. All you have to do is look for problem solution essay topics with viable solutions, and you should genuinely care about the problem. If you still have trouble finding good problem and solution topics, you can look for examples of problem and solution essay topics.

We have provided more than enough examples for you with over 100 problem solution essay topics contained in this article. Ready to find a solution to your problem solution essay topics? Let’s get started!

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

Problem solution essay topics for middle school, problem solution essay topics about animals, environment problem solution essay topics, health problem solution essay topics, political problem solution essay topics, problem solution gun control topics, funny problem solution essay topics, more problem solution essay topics.

Problem solution essays are one of the most common essays for college students. Students in college face a unique set of problems from other students. It is essential to write topics for problem solution essay on issues that you can relate to or have experienced.

Therefore, problem solution essays written by college students are quite different from all others. These essays deal with issues common among college students.

Still at a loss as to the problem solution topics to choose as a college student? Here are some examples that would point you in the right direction. Note that you don’t have to use them verbatim. These can serve as samples or inspiration.

How can college students effectively balance out personal needs and academics? Is it possible to still have a social life?
Large lecture halls can make it more challenging to learn and hear lecturers. How can campuses work on solving this problem?
Most students have to work and study to pay for their education. However, work often takes away the time for learning. How can a student find a solution to this problem?
Going away from home can be pretty hard, and many students battle with homesickness for a time. Proffer solutions to this problem.
How can a student cut costs on decorating a dorm room or apartment?
Lots of colleges match students as roommates. This practice often causes some problems between people with different personalities and interests. What can be done to make the adjustment period more comfortable for each roommate?
Every student knows that the cafeteria is rarely the best place to get the best food. How can students help change this situation, though?
How can parents help their children and wards without intruding on their privacy and taking away their independence?
What should colleges do to have a more diverse number of students in their schools?
How can colleges help their students relieve stress?
Do parents need to know the grades of their children in college?
How can colleges encourage students to participate more actively in sports and politics?
How do college students decide on their major?
What happens to a long-distance relationship when you are in college?
How can a college student persuade his parents to allow him to be independent?
What is the best way to handle issues with roommates?
How can a college student stop procrastination?
What degrees are the most marketable for college students?
How do college students handle noisy or dirty roommates or neighbors?
What can you do if you find out that your friend is suicidal?

These problems are issues that college students frequently encounter. Therefore, you only have to seek actionable solutions to the question, outline them and have a good problem solution paper.

These sample topics can also be converted into problem solution speech topics. If you were to give a speech, all these questions would make a good thesis for problem solution speech topics college students would love. You have the advantage of capturing your audience’s attention right from the onset as they can relate to the problems.

Not everyone is in college, though. For instance, if you are in middle school, the type of problem solution essay that would appeal to your audience and find interesting is quite different. Therefore, we have highlighted more problem solution paper topics to help everyone in different situations.

Middle School is often a challenging time for most people. It is a time when teenagers feel like adults yet are still children in the real sense. This problem, coupled with many other issues, makes for a quite impressive problem solution essay topics list.

What can a school do to help children who have behavior issues that stem from their home?
How can society help and encourage children with autism and other developmental disorders instead of blaming their parents?
What can parents and teachers do to help young female teenagers who are unrealistically trying to fit into the images they see on social media?
Should middle school students look for a job before they gain admission into college?
How can parents teach middle school students financial management before they get to college?
How can parents and teachers combat the adverse effects of cell phones and other electronic devices on students?
How can therapy dogs be controlled in a classroom such that it does not become a distraction?
How can students do tests without experience undue stress and anxiety?
How can society help children who are talented but have no means to further their education?
How can school fit more creative subjects into pupils’ schedules to help them broaden their mental capacities?

Beyond school topics for problem solution essays, there are also other general topics that anyone who wants to write problem solution persuasive speech topics can use. We have highlighted these topics under the different sections below.

If you love animals, then you would care about what happens to them. A problem solution essay can help you affect the changes that you want to see concerning animals. Here are a few interesting topics that you might want to try your hands on first.

What is the solution to the animals that are overpopulating particular habitats because human activity has chased their natural predators?
How can we prevent people from disturbing the natural habitat of endangered animals living in parks?
How can we solve the problem of plastics destroying the natural ecosystem in the ocean?
What can people do to combat the global climate change issues that would affect several animals’ habitats?
How do we deter people who adopt pets on a whim and decide they don’t want these animals anymore?
How we protect endangered species like snakes, which might live on people’s properties, without causing problems for the people or the animals?
How can we prevent poaching with the rise in demand for animal flesh and parts worldwide?
How do we protect migratory birds from obstacles like tall buildings and wind turbines?
How can we deal with irresponsible dog breeders who run dog mills?
How can farmers provide free-range eggs at a more affordable price?

You might have thought of some of these issues at one point or the other if you love animals in any capacity. Therefore, it would be relatively easy for you to write a problem solution paper on any of these topics if necessary.

Anything that affects the environment affects everyone in it. Therefore, problem solution essay topics environment-related are a common one for people. You can try your hands on any one of them. Who knows? Your solution might be what the world needs.

Some sample environment problem solution essays that you attempt are:

How can we encourage more countries to work on climate change and take it more seriously?
What can everyday people do to help cleanse the waterways from pollution?
How can we encourage farming communities to convert to wind or solar farming?
What can we do the stop the extinction of monarch butterflies?
How can we reduce air pollution in major world cities?
What steps should members of societies take to stop the rising acidity of the oceans?
What can be done about the increasing world population as it affects the environment?
GMOs lead to more food production but could cause biodiversity challenges. What could be done to solve the problem?
How can we reduce food wastage, especially in larger cities?
How can we reduce deforestation and encourage tree planting?

Find more environmental science topics on our blog.

One significant aspect of life that people face challenges is in their health. This fact makes this aspect a good source for problem solution essay topics. Some of the health problem questions that these essays seek solutions to include:

How can we encourage parents to vaccinate their children at an early age to prevent dangerous illnesses?
How can people develop the habit of regular exercise?
What can parents do to help their obese children?
How can we get more people to sign up for a health insurance plan in the United States?
How can the stigma surrounding mental health issues be reduced in our societies?
How can we combat increasing health challenges like asthma caused by air pollution?
How can we strongly encourage people to stop taking tobacco?
How do we reduce death rates caused by accidental gun discharge?
What can we do to encourage people to eat fresher, more balanced meals?
How do we ensure people seek primary health care when they fall ill? How do we make primary health care accessible to all?

Politics is an issue that concerns everyone, whether we like it or not. One way or the other, your actions and inactions would determine the state of your society and country.

There are no doubts that there are several problems in the political system all over the world today. These problems serve as the basis of political problem cause solution speech topics.

These examples that we have provided below will help you write on any of these political problem solution essay topics.

How do we encourage people to vote more?
Should the age limit of voting reduce as more children mature at younger ages?
How do we enforce laws that would help our societies?
Is there a way that we can eradicate racism, nepotism, and tribalism from the society
Is there a way to increase the number of literate people in society?
How do we balance the free speech right with the right not to insult or abuse?
How can we solve the problem of terrorism?
How can mass job creation reach everyone and reduce the poverty rate?
Should politicians have some form of control over social media? How can we create a free and fair media space without any political interference?
How should we deal with illegal immigration issues?

Gun control has been a big issue for years. Different people have their opinions on the solution to the problems that guns cause in society. Here are a few on the topic:

How can we help victims of gun violence?
Is there any way to reduce the rate of gun violence?
Do we prosecute the sellers or buyers of illegal guns?
Should civilians be allowed to carry guns? What justifiable reasons can a civilian give for owning a gun?
How can we make our communities safer without guns?

These problem solution gun control topics can help you explore the issues surrounding gun use control.

Whether you want to or not, some problems would make you laugh. We have highlighted a few funny problem solution essay topics for you.

Funny cat videos reduce stress during finals.
Programmable electric locks might help you stop eating at night.
Photoshop solves Instagram users’ low self-esteem issues.
Would 3D Printing solve the dorm cooking problems?
Lecturers can serve free coffee to keep students awake during class.
Could recorders be used to solve the problem of sleeping in class?
Can autocorrect solve the problem of texting language in essays?
Glowing pillows could solve issues in long-distance relationships
iPads as a replacement for textbooks would make the class more fun and engaging
Alarm clocks should run from student’s reach before they turn them off to prevent oversleeping.

These topics contain funny solutions to real-life issues. While you can write a paper on these funny topics to entertain yourself, you might need more problem solution essay topics.

How can we stop social media bullying?
How can you help a depressed person?
What can we do to domineering and manipulating people?
How do you leave a bad relationship?
How can we stop or limit steroid use in sports?
Should student-athletes get paid?
How can you learn a sport that you have never played before?
How can you boost attendance at a sporting event?
Should parents or teachers push children to engage in sports?
How do homeschooled children prepare for college?
Should schools offer more technical courses to prepare children for the changing world?
What should parents or guardians do when a student gets pregnant?
How can we encourage more people to adopt children?
How can parents teach the value of honesty?
What is the best way to discipline a child?
How can we prevent traffic violations?
How do we prevent drunk driving?
Is there a way to increase driver education in the country?
What is the best way to find a new location you have never visited?
What can traffic law changes make driving easier?
How can we make people use more public transport?
What is the best way to train a student as a driver?
How can we combat driving and texting?
Should parents impose their religious beliefs on their children?
How can we help families who have someone with mental health challenges?
How can parents help their children have a confident body image?
How should parents help with homework?
In what way should technology be used in the classroom?
Should teachers or students be allowed to carry licensed guns into the school premises?
What should be the standard for dress codes in schools?
Should students who prefer online studies in high school be allowed to use that medium?
How can schools retain their outstanding teachers?
Should schools promote more physical education?
Should there be a general core curriculum for all schools?
Is it ideal to give every child an iPad or laptop in school?
Has digital technology caused challenges for the education sector?
Should foreign language be made compulsory for every student?
How should teachers treat cheaters when caught?
Would a nationalized test prove the standard of schools?
How can we help children flunking class?
What can make gifted and talented programs more effective?
How much should sports players earn?
Should women ask men out on dates?
How can you move out of a friend zone?
What makes for a healthy relationship?

You can change these topics into local problem solution essay topics by specifying a state or location. If you are looking for easy problem solution essay topics or problem solution proposal essay topics, these topics will meet your needs. All you have to do is choose appropriate problem solution essay topics or contact a paper writer and get more help.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Problem solution essays are a type of essay question sometimes given to you in the test.

In this type of essay you need to discuss the problems with regards to a particular topic and then suggest possible solutions to these problems.

You can also watch a video of this lesson:

One of the first things you want to make sure that you are able to do is identfy one of these questions when it arises.

Here are some examples of this type of question.

Examples of Problem Solution Essay Questions:

Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems.

Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.

Nowadays many people have access to computers on a wide basis and a large number of children play computer games.

What are the negative impacts of playing computer games and what can be done to minimize the bad effects?

The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before.

What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what solutions can you suggest?

In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing.

What problems will this cause for individuals and society?

Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.

An important note. Some essays ask for reasons and solutions, not problems and solutions. Writing about a reason (or cause) is not the same as writing about a problem.

Check these model essays to see the difference.

IELTS Problem Solution Essay Example

In order to understand these types of problem solution essays further and how to organize your writing, we'll look at a problem solution example essay:

Model Answer

The enormous growth in the use of the internet over the last decade has led to radical changes to the way that people consume and share information. Although serious problems have arisen as a result of this, there are solutions.

One of the first problems of the internet is the ease with which children can access potentially dangerous sites. For example, pornography sites are easily accessible to them because they can register with a site and claim to be an adult. There is no doubt that this affects their thoughts and development, which is a negative impact for the children and for society. Another major problem is the growth of online fraud and hacking. These days, there are constant news stories about government and company websites that have been hacked, resulting in sensitive information falling into the hands of criminals.

It is important that action is taken to combat these problems. Governments should ensure that adequate legislation and controls are in place that will prevent young people from accessing dangerous sites, such as requiring more than simply confirming that you are an adult to view a site. Parents also have a part to play. They need to closely monitor the activities of their children and restrict their access to certain sites, which can now be done through various computer programs. Companies must also improve their onsite IT security systems to make fraud and hacking much more difficult by undertaking thorough reviews of their current systems for weaknesses.

To conclude, the internet is an amazing technological innovation that has transformed people’s lives, but not without negative impacts. However, with the right action by individuals, governments and businesses, it can be made a safe place for everyone.

(285 words)

Writing about Problems

From the problem solution essay, look at the problems paragraph, and answer the following questions (then click on the link below to see the answers):

How many problems are discussed?
What are they?
What expressions are used to introduce the problems?
How are the problems illustrated further?
What results are discussed for each problem?

Show / hide answers

1) How many problems are discussed?

2) What are they?

children can access potentially dangerous sites growth of online fraud and hacking

3) What expressions are used to introduce the problems?

One of the first problems of the internet is... Another major problem is...

4) How are the problems illustrated further?

For example, pornography sites are easily accessible to them because they can register with a site and claim to be an adult. These days, there are constant news stories about government and company websites that have been hacked.

5) What results are discussed for each problem?

There is no doubt that this affects their thoughts and development, which is a negative impact for the children and for society.

...resulting in sensitive information falling into the hands of criminals.

Your answers to these questions should tell you a lot about how to plan and organize a problem paragraph.

You only need two or three problems as remember you do not have much time and you need to explain the problems.

When you brainstorm your ideas for problem solution essays, think about (a) what the problem is (b) how you will explain it (c) and what the effect is . Your paragraph will then follow this pattern.

Here is an example of the brainstorming for this paragraph:

Problem 1: children can access potentially dangerous sites

Explanation / Example: Pornography sites
Result: Affects thought & development - negative for children & society

Problem 2: growth of online fraud and hacking

Explanation / Example: Evident from the constant news stories
Result: Criminals get sensitive information

Here they are illustrated in the paragraph, with the introductory expressions underlined:

One of the first problems of the internet is the ease with which children can access potentially dangerous sites . For example, pornography sites are easily accessible to them because they can register with a site and claim to be an adult . There is no doubt that this affects their thoughts and development, which is a negative impact for the children and for society . Another major problem is the growth of online fraud and hacking . These days, there are constant news stories about government and company websites that have been hacked , resulting in sensitive information falling into the hands of criminals.

Writing about Solutions

Answer the following questions about the solutions paragraph:

How many solutions are given?
What three different groups of people does the writer say are responsble for these solutions?
How would the solutions be implemented?
What three modal verb structures are used to make the suggestions?

1) How many solutions are given?

adequate legislation and controls monitor the activities of children / restrict access improve company IT security systems

3) What three different groups of people does the writer say are responsble for these solutions?

Governments Parents Companies

Stricter criteria for accessing sites Using computer programs Reviewing current IT systems for weaknesses

5) What three modal verb structures are used to make the suggestions?

should need to must

Your answers to these questions provide you with some key tips on writing a solutions paragraph. Some of these points are now explained further.

The people involved

When you come to brainstorm your solutions, think of the key 'actors' who are involved. It is usually governments and individuals in some way or another.

There may be another group specifically realted to the topic. For example, in this case it is companies and parents. If you are discussing crime it could be the police. If it is violence on TV it could be TV and film producers.

You can then brainstorm your ideas under each 'group' and organize them in the same way.

Developing your solutions

Also, try to make sure your solutions are not too simplistic. It's all too easy to make sweeping generalizations about what people can do. For example, look at this idea:

The government should introduce stricter laws.

It it common to see such statements in IELTS problem solution essays with no further explantion. Give more detail about how or why this would work. For example:

Governments should ensure that adequate legislation and controls are in place that will prevent young people from accessing dangerous sites, such as requiring more than simply confirming that you are an adult to view a site.

Some specific detail has now been given on how this solution could work.

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs can be used to make suggestions in problem solution essays. These are usually found in solutions paragraphs.

Check out this grammar lesson if you are unsure how to use modal verbs .

Here again is a plan for the problem solution essay for the solutions paragraph:

Solution 1: Governments

Idea: Adequate legislation and controls for young people
How: More complex website access criteria

Solution 2: Parents

Idea: Monitor children and restrict access
How: Use a computer program

Solution 3: Companies

Idea: Improve IT security systems
How: Review current systems in place

Here is the paragraph again. Note how it follows the plan and the clear topic sentence that tells the reader the essay is moving on to discuss solutions (modals verbs are underlined):

It is important that action is taken to combat these problems. Governments should ensure that adequate legislation and controls are in place that will prevent young people from accessing dangerous sites , such as requiring more than simply confirming that you are an adult to view a site . Parents also have a part to play. They need to closely monitor the activities of their children and restrict their access to certain sites , which can now be done through various computer programs. Companies must also improve their onsite IT security systems to make fraud and hacking much more difficult by undertaking thorough reviews of their current systems for weaknesses.

More Task 2 IELTS Lessons:

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Tips on how to write an introduction for an IELTS essay introduction in a quick and easy way.

Tips on How to Score IELTS Band 8 in Writing and Speaking

To score IELTS Band 8 you need to understand exactly what is in the IELTS Band Descriptors for an 8 for writing and speaking first.

IELTS Task Response - 25% of your essay grade

The IELTS Task Response criteria in the scoring makes up 25% of your band score for your essay.

Can you use Personal Pronouns in Essays for IELTS?

Learn how to use personal pronouns in essays for IELTS correctly. Can you use "I", "we" and "you"?

Using Substitution in IELTS to Improve Writing Coherency

You can use substitution in your IELTS essays in order to improve coherency and coherence.

Thesis Statement Tips for IELTS Essays

Your thesis statement in an IELTS essay should be written quickly and concisely. Use these tips to do that.

Writing an IELTS Essay Conclusion

The IELTS essay conclusion is the final part of your IELTS essay. This lesson guides you on how to write a conclusion quickly but effectively.

Requirements for IELTS Band 7 in Writing

Getting to an IELTS Band 7 is a struggle for many candidates. This lesson explains exactly what you have to do to reach this band score.

IELTS Music Essay: Understanding a Complex Question

An IELTS essay about music is used to show you how to answer a more complex IELTS essay question that does not have a clear 'task' given to you.

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IELTS opinion essays in IELTS can be placed into three types. This lesson explains the different types and how to analyse these essay questions.

Improving Writing Coherence for IELTS essays

25% of the writing grade is on how you organise your essay so this lesson shows you how to improve your writing coherence.

Transitional Phrases for Essays

Learn transitional phrases for essays to get a band 7 or higher in your IELTS writing for coherence and cohesion.

How to use brainstorming and planning to generate essay ideas.

Brainstorming and planning is a key step in developing your IELTS essay. This lesson has tips on how to coming up with ideas and organising them.

How to Write an IELTS Essay: The key steps

Learn key steps on how to write an IELTS Essay. This guides you on how to write a great essay plus other lessons to improve your writing skills.

Paragraph Writing for IELTS: Building strong arguments

This paragraph writing lesson provides tips on constructing the best paragraphs for your IELTS essay.

Using Pronouns to Improve IELTS Essay Coherency

Find out how to use pronouns to improve your coherency for IELTS task 2 essays.

Generating ideas for IELTS essays for writing task 2

Generating ideas for IELTS essays for writing task 2 can be difficult but complex ideas are not expected.

IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay Tips and Strategies

An advantage disadvantage essay is one type of essay that you may get in the test. This lesson shows how to write a pros cons essay.

How to Identify the Task in an IELTS Essay

Learn how to identify the task in an IELTS task 2 essay question. This is one of the most important steps in responding to an essay question.

How to Identify the Topic of an IELTS Essay Question

In IELTS you must identify the topic of your essay as this is a key to making sure your essay is on topic.

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How to Plan & Write IELTS Problem Solution Essays

IELTS problem solution essays are the most challenging essay type for many people. The way they are worded can vary hugely which can make it difficult to understand how you should answer the question.

Generally, you’ll be asked to write about both the problem, or cause, and the solution to a specific issue. Sometimes, however, you will only be required to write about possible solutions.

The 3 essay types:

Problem and solution
Cause and solution
Just the solution

Hence, it’s essential that you analyse the question carefully, which I’ll show you how to do in this lesson. I’m also going to demonstrate step-by-step how to plan and write IELTS problem solution essays.

Here’s what we’ll be covering:

Identifying IELTS problem solution essays
6 Common mistakes
Essay structure
How to plan
How to write an introduction
How to write main body paragraphs
How to write a conclusion

Want to watch and listen to this lesson?

Click on this video.

Click the links to see lessons on each of these Task 2 essay writing topics.

Once you understand the process, practice on past questions. Take your time at first and gradually speed up until you can plan and write an essay of at least 250 words in the 40 minutes allowed in the exam.

The Question

Here are two typical IELTS problem solution essay questions. They consist of a statement followed by the question or instruction.

1. One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

2. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the number of endangered species has increased significantly and we have witnessed more mass extinctions in this period than in any other period of time.

State some reasons for this and provide possible solutions.

These are some examples of different ways in which questions can be phrased. The first half of the questions relate to the problem or cause, the second half to the solution.

What issues does this cause and how can they be addressed?

What are some resulting social problems and how can we deal with them?

What problems arise from this and how can they be tackled?

Why is this? How might it be remedied?

What are the reasons for this, and how can the situation be improved?

Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

And here are a few questions where you only have to write about the solution.

How can this situation be improved?

What solutions can you suggest to deal with this problem?

How can this problem be solved?

What measures could be taken to prevent this?

It’s important that you are able to recognise the common synonyms, words and phrases used in problem solution questions. Here are the key words and their synonyms used in the questions above.

Problem – issues, resulting, situation
Cause – reasons, why
Solution – deal with, addressed, tackled, remedied, improved, measures taken, solved, prevent

Before we move on to some common mistakes, I want to quickly explain the difference between a problem and a cause. Read the following examples.

Problem – I've missed the last bus home after visiting my friend for the evening.

Cause – I misread the timetable and thought the bus left at 22.45 when it actually left at 22.35.

The ‘cause’ is the reason for the ‘problem’. We’ll be looking at question analysis in more detail in a minute.

6 Common Mistakes

These six errors are common in IELTS problem solution essays.

Confusing problem and causes questions.
Having too many ideas.
Not developing your ideas.
Not developing both sides of the argument equally.
Not linking the problems and solutions.
Not being specific enough.

It is common for an essay to consist of a list of problems and solutions without any of them being expanded on or linked to each other. Sometimes, a student will focus on just the problem or only the solution which leads to an unbalanced essay. Both these issues will result in a low score for task achievement.

You must choose just one or two problems and pick solutions directly linked to them. Explain them and give examples.

Another serious error is to write generally about the topic. You need to be very specific with your ideas. Analysing the question properly is essential to avoiding this mistake. I’ll show you how to do this.

Essay Structure

Now let’s look at a simple structure you can use to write IELTS problem solution essays. It’s not the only possible structure but it’s the one I recommend because it’s easy to learn and will enable you to quickly plan and write a high-level essay.

1) Introduction

Paraphrase the question
State 1 key problem/cause and related solution

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Problem or Cause

Topic sentence – state the problem or cause
Explanation – give detail explaining the problem or cause
Example – give an example

3) Main body paragraph 2 – Solution

Topic sentence – state the solution
Explanation – give detail explaining the solution

4) Conclusion

Summarise the key points

This structure will give us a well-balanced essay with 4 paragraphs.

One Problem/Cause & Solution or Two?

Most questions will state problems, causes and solutions in the plural, that is, more than one. However, it is acceptable to write about just one.

This will give you an essay of just over the minimum 250 words. To write about two problems/causes and solutions will require you to write between 350 and 400 words which are a lot to plan and write in the 40 minutes allowed.

It is better to fully develop one problem/cause and solution than ending up with one idea missing an explanation or an example because you run out of time.

The step-by-step essay structure I’m going to show you includes one problem and solution but you can write about two if you feel able to or more comfortable doing so.

How To Plan IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Here’s the question we’re going to be answering in our model essay followed by the 3 steps of the planning process.

One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you sugge st?

Analyse the question
Generate ideas
Identify vocabulary

# 1 Analyse the question

This is an essential step in the planning process and will ensure that you answer the question fully. It’s quick and easy to do. You just need to identify 3 different types of words:

1. Topic words

2. Other keywords

3. Instruction words

Topics words are the ones that identify the general subject of the question and will be found in the statement part of the question.

One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion .

So, this question is about ‘ traffic congestion’ .

Many people will do this first step of the process and then write about the topic in general. This is a serious mistake and leads to low marks for task achievement.

What we need to do now that we know the general topic, is to understand exactly what aspect of traffic congestion we're being asked to write about.

The other keywords in the question tell you the specific topic you must write about.

By highlighting these words, it’s easy to see that you are being asked to write about the problem of traffic congestion in large cities. Your essay must only include ideas relevant to these ideas.

The instruction words are the question itself. These tell you the type of IELTS problem solution essay you must write. This is a ‘causes and solutions’ question.

# 2 Generate ideas

The next task is to generate some ideas to write about.

There are several different ways to think up ideas. I cover them fully on the IELTS Essay Planning page.

We’re going to use the ‘friends technique’. This is the method I prefer as it allows you to take a step back from the stress of the exam situation and think more calmly.

Here’s how it works. Imagine that you are chatting with a friend over a cup of coffee and they ask you this question. What are the first thoughts to come into your head? Plan your essay around these ideas.

Doing this will help you to come up with simple answers in everyday language rather than straining your brain to think of amazing ideas using high-level language, which isn’t necessary.

You might want to try this yourself before reading on for my ideas.

Here are my ideas:

Too many cars on the roads – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains
Inadequate public transport – crowded, old & dirty
Poor road layout
Rush hour traffic – most people travel to & from work at the same times each day
Car sharing, park-and-ride scheme, congestion charge
Improve public transport – more frequent and better quality
Improve infrastructure – bus lanes, cycle lanes will make it safer for people to cycle
Flexible working hours

For each cause you think of, immediately write down a possible solution. This you will ensure that the problems and solutions you think of are linked.

You don’t need to spend long on this as you only need one or two ideas.

I’ve got more far more ideas here than I need as I spent more time thinking about it that I would in the real exam. I’m going to pick just one cause to develop in the essay and one or two solutions.

My advice on making your selection is to choose ideas you can quickly think of an example to illustrate.

Here are my choices:

Cause – Too many cars on the roads. Why? – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains

Solution – Park-and-ride schemes

We’re almost ready to start writing our IELTS problem solution essay but first, we have one more task to do.

# 3 Vocabulary

During the planning stage, quickly jot down some vocabulary that comes to mind as you decide which cause and solution you are going to write about, especially synonyms of key words. This will save you having to stop and think of the right language while you’re writing. For example:

traffic jam
heavy traffic
private transport
infrastructure

With that done, we can focus on the first paragraph of the essay – the introduction.

How To Write an Introduction

Good introductions to IELTS problem solution essays have a simple 2 part structure:

State 1 key problem/cause and related solution/s (outline sentence)
Have 2-3 sentences
Be 40-60 words long
Take 5 minutes to write

1) Paraphrase the question

Start your introduction by paraphrasing the question.

Question: One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion.

What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

Paraphrased question:

O ne of the most serious issues facing the majority of large urban areas is traffic jams.

Note my use of synonyms to replace key words in the question statement. You don’t have to replace every key word but do so where possible whilst ensuring that your language sounds natural.

2) Outline statement

Now we need to add an outline statement where we outline the two main points that we’ll cover in the rest of the essay, that is, the cause and the solution I chose earlier. Here they are again.

Cause – Too many cars on the roads. Why? – increasing numbers of people own cars, more convenient than buses & trains

And, this is one way to develop them into an outline sentence.

Outline statement:

The main reason for this is that there are too many private cars on the roads these days and a viable solution is to introduce more park-and-ride schemes.

So, let’s bring the two elements of our introduction together.

Introduction

This introduction achieves three important functions:

It shows the examiner that you understand the question.
It acts as a guide to the examiner as to what your essay is about.
It also helps to keep you focused and on track as you write.

The two ideas in your introduction will become your two main body paragraphs.

Main body paragraph 1 – Too many cars on the roads

Main body paragraph 2 – Park-and-ride schemes

How To Write Main Body Paragraphs

Main body paragraphs in IELTS problem solution essays should contain 3 things:

Topic sentence – outline the main idea
Explanation – explain it and g ive more detail

Main Body Paragraph 1

The topic sentence summarises the main idea of the paragraph. That’s all it needs to do so it doesn’t have to be complicated.

It plays an important role in ensuring that your ideas flow logically from one to another. It does this by acting as a signpost for what is to come next, that is, what the paragraph will be about.

If you maintain a clear development of ideas throughout your essay, you will get high marks for task achievement and cohesion and coherence.

We’ll now take the idea for our first main body paragraph and create our topic sentence.

Obviously, we’re going to write about the cause of the problem first.

Main body paragraph 1 – Too many cars on the roads

Topic sentence:

The number of people owning cars increases year on year, with most families now having more than one car.

Next, we must write an explanation sentence that develops the idea.

Explanation sentence:

Most people like the convenience of travelling at the time they want to rather than being restricted to public transport timetables, so they prefer to drive themselves around rather than taking the bus or train. This is despite the fact that they frequently have to sit in long traffic queues as they near the city centre.

Finally, we add an example to support our main point. If you can’t think of a real example, it’s fine to make one up, as long as it’s believable. The examiner isn’t going to check your facts. Alternative, you could add another piece of information to support your idea.

Example sentence:

Whenever I have to attend a meeting in the city, I always drive because it means that I can leave home when I want to rather than getting stressed about getting to the station in time to catch the train.

That’s the 3 parts of our first main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

We now follow the same process for our second main body paragraph.

Main Body Paragraph 2

Main idea 2 – Park-and-ride schemes

First, we write the topic sentence to summarise the main idea.

Topic sentence:

A solution that is proving successful in many areas is park-and-ride schemes.

Now for the explanation sentence where we expand on this idea.

Explanation sentence:

This is where you park your car for free in a large car park on the outskirts of the city and take a bus for the final part of your journey. The fee you have to pay for the bus trip is usually very small and this public transport system is generally very regular, running every ten minutes or so.

Finally, an example to support this point.

A survey carried out in the city of Exeter showed that the rush hour congestion decreased by 10% when the council set up a park-and-ride scheme to the north of the city. There was an additional drop of another 10% in traffic volume when a second scheme began operating to the south.

That’s the 3 parts of our second main body paragraph complete. Here’s the finished paragraph.

Now we need a conclusion and our IELTS problem solution essay is done.

How To Write a Conclusion

The conclusion is a summary of the main points in your essay and can generally be done in a single sentence. It should never introduce new ideas.

If you're below the minimum 250 words after you’ve written your conclusion, you can add a prediction or recommendation statement.

Our essay is already over the minimum word limit so we don’t need this extra sentence but you can learn more about how to write a prediction or recommendation statement for IELTS problem solution essays on the Task 2 Conclusions page.

The conclusion is the easiest sentence in the essay to write but one of the most important.

A good conclusion will:

Neatly end the essay
Link all your ideas together
Sum up your argument or opinion
Answer the question

If you achieve this, you’ll improve your score for both task achievement and cohesion and coherence which together make up 50% of the overall marks. Without a conclusion, you’ll score below band 6 for task achievement.

You can start almost any final paragraph of an IELTS problem solution essay with the words:

In conclusion

To conclude

Now all you need to do is briefly summarise the main ideas into one sentence.

Here’s a top tip . Go back and read the introduction to the essay because this is also a summary of the essay. It outlines what you are going to write about.

To create a good conclusion, you simply have to paraphrase the introduction.

Introduction:

Here is the same information formed into a conclusion. I’ve also added a personal statement at the end to link back to one of my example sentences. You don’t have to do this but in this case, I think that it rounds the essay off better.

That’s it. We’ve completed our essay. Here it is with the 4 paragraphs put together.

Finished IELTS problem solution essay.

Go through this lesson as many times as you need to in order to fully understand it and put in lots of practice writing IELTS problem solution essays from past exam questions. Practice is the only way to improve your skills.

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More help with ielts problem solution essays & other task 2 essays.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – T he format, the 5 question types, the 5 step essay writing strategy & sample questions. All the key information you need to know.

The 5 Types of Task 2 Essay – How to recognise the 5 different types of Task 2 essays. 15 sample questions to study and a simple planning structure for each essay type.

Understanding Task 2 Questions – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 2 Essay – Discover why essay planning is essential & learn a simple 4 step strategy, the 4 part essay structure & 4 methods of generating ideas.

How To Write a Task 2 Introduction – Find out why a good introduction is essential. Learn how to write one using a simple 3 part strategy & discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Main Body Paragraphs – Learn the simple 3 part structure for writing great main body paragraphs and also, 3 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Conclusions – Learn the easy way to write the perfect conclusion for a Task 2 essay. Also discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

Task 2 Marking Criteria – Find out how to meet the marking criteria in Task 2. See examples of good and poor answers & learn some common mistakes to avoid.

The 5 Task 2 Essay Types:

Step-by-step instructions on how to plan & write high-level essays. Model answers & common mistakes to avoid.

Opinion Essays

Discussion Essays

Problem Solution Essays

Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Double Question Essays

Other Related Pages

IELTS Writing Test – Understand the format & marking criteria, know what skills are assessed & learn the difference between the Academic & General writing tests.

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An Ultimate Guide to Writing IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Updated On Nov 08, 2023

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An Ultimate Guide to Writing IELTS Problem Solution Essays

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Introduction

The IELTS problem solution essays are a type of IELTS writing task 2 essay that asks you to discuss a problem and propose possible solutions. These problem solution essays are designed to assess your ability to identify, analyze, and evaluate problems, as well as your ability to develop and articulate effective solutions.

The IELTS problem solution essay topics can be drawn from a variety of sources and are based on real-world situations and issues. Therefore, to do well in writing task 2, it is important to be familiar with the range of IELTS problem solution essay topics.

Identifying IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Each essay type has a unique structure, so it’s important to identify the type of essay you’re writing before you start. Problem solution essays in IELTS are often worded as follows:

It is important to be able to identify the common synonyms, words, and phrases used in problem solution questions. Here are the key words and their synonyms used in the examples above:

Problem : issues, resulting, situation
Cause : reasons, why
Solution : deal with, addressed, tackled, remedied, improved, measures taken, solved, prevent

However, you will mostly be asked to write about both the problem and its solution. The first part of the question will state the problem or cause, and the second part will ask you to identify solutions.

How to Write a Problem Solution Essay IELTS?

To plan and write a problem solution essay IELTS, you can follow these steps:

Understand the question

The first step is to carefully read the question and understand what is being asked. You should identify the problem, the cause(s) of the problem, and the required solution(s).

Brainstorm your ideas

Once you understand the question, take some time to brainstorm your ideas. What are the different aspects of the problem? What are the possible causes? What are the different solutions that could be implemented?

Organize your ideas

Once you have a good understanding of the problem and its possible solutions, it is time to organize your ideas into a logical structure.

Write your essay

When writing your essay, be sure to use clear and concise language. Avoid using complex sentences and jargon. You should also support your claims with evidence from credible sources.

Proofread your essay

Once you have finished writing your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.

Now that we have understood how to write a problem solution essay, let’s have a look at the structure of a problem solution essay.

Enroll in our free IELTS online coaching today and learn how to identify and write problem solution essays like a champ!

Structure of Problem Solution Essay

Let’s do an example problem solution essay to understand the above mentioned structure.

Problem Solution Essay Example with Structure

Introduction:.

Before you begin writing your problem solution essay, read the question and identify the problem/ solution.
Note down the ideas that come to your mind naturally. For example, look at the table below.
Choose one of the problems and discuss it in detail. Here’s an example:
Problem : Dumping of industrial wastes into the nearby water bodies.
Solution : They must be treated, purified and recycled.
Wastewater treatment
Biodegradable products
Water bodies such as lakes, rivers etc

You should paraphrase the question and outline the problem and solution in your introduction as mentioned below:

Body Paragraph 1:

The body paragraph 1 must be organised as follows:

Main body paragraph 1: Letting out of industrial wastes in nearby water bodies
Central idea: Industries are increasing in number.
Explanation : There are no strict rules in place regarding the environment. So industries let out their wastes into the nearby water bodies such as lakes, rivers, etc which affects the respective eco-system and thereby leading to more serious issues.
Example : As installing a wastewater treatment plant is an additional burden and is costly, it is easier to let the waste water into the nearby water bodies as nobody questions this.

The completed main body paragraph 1 will look like this :

Body Paragraph 2:

The body paragraph 2 must be organised as follows:

Main body paragraph 2: Industrial wastewater treatment
Central idea: Installing Industrial waste water treatment plants could be beneficial to the environment.
Explanation : Industrial wastewater treatment illustrates the processes used for treating wastewater that is produced by industries into a by-product. The treated industrial wastewater may be reused or released to a sanitary sewer.
Examples: There are proven records for reducing water pollution after wastewater treatment.

The completed main body paragraph 2 will look like this :

Conclusion:

Make sure to sum up all that has been in the previous paragraphs.
Use words like in summary, to summarise, to conclude, or as a conclusion, etc.

The final conclusion will look like this:

Therefore, the finished essay will have the following structure:

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Following are some of the Common mistakes that should be avoided in IELTS problem solution essays

Not understanding the difference between a problem and its causes.
Trying to include too many ideas in the essay, without developing them fully.
Not considering both sides of the argument equally.
Not linking the problems to the solutions.
Not being specific enough in the discussion of the problems and solutions.

Read: All Useful IELTS Writing Lessons & Websites

Tips for IELTS Problem Solution Essays

Here are some of the tips to follow while practicing or writing an IELTS Problem Solution Essays:

Read and understand the instructions given in the question (sometimes the question might ask to write about the cause of the issue as well).
Follow the word count (no less than 250 words)
Plan the problems and solutions you wish to write about, before starting to write.
Start the essay with an introduction paragraph and conclude it with a conclusion paragraph, with the body paragraph between the two.
If you’re asked to write about both, cause and the solution, then you can write the cause in one body paragraph and the solution in the next body paragraph.

Pro tip: To avoid a low score in IELTS problem solution essays, focus on one or two problems and identify specific solutions. Explain the problems and solutions in detail, with examples.

Check out some of the Recent Writing Task 2 Essay Topics for IELTS 2023

Problem Solution Essay IELTS Topics:

Here are some sample IELTS problem solution essay topics:

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IELTS Writing Practice Tests 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write cause and solution in the same paragraph?

How to write a solution paragraph?

What is the difference between a Problem solution essay and a cause solution essay?

How do you analyze a problem solution essay?

How to identify a problem solution essay?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types

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Soon after graduating with a Master’s in Literature from Southern Arkansas University, she joined an institute as an English language trainer. She has had innumerous student interactions and has produced a couple of research papers on English language teaching. She soon found that non-native speakers struggled to meet the English language requirements set by foreign universities. It was when she decided to jump ship into IELTS training. From then on, she has been mentoring IELTS aspirants. She joined IELTSMaterial about a year ago, and her contributions have been exceptional. Her essay ideas and vocabulary have taken many students to a band 9.

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Problem Solution Essay

Problem-Solution Essay - Writing Guide, Topics, & Examples!

10 min read

What is a Problem-Solution Essay?

A problem-solution essay is a form of persuasive writing that delves into a specific issue, providing a detailed examination of the problem and proposing effective solutions.

Unlike other essay types, it places a strong emphasis on presenting practical remedies to real-world problems.

The main aim is not just to explain the problem but to get readers interested in practical solutions. This makes it a unique and impactful type of academic writing.

Why Write a Problem Solution Essay

There are significant reasons to write a problem solution essay. First and foremost, this type of writing encourages the practical application of knowledge . You are required to address real-world issues and propose practical solutions. This helps develop a deeper sense of the problems around you.

Additionally, this process refines analytical skills , encourages you to approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset.

Also, working on a problem-solution essay helps you become better at communicating . You have to explain complicated problems and solutions in a way that's clear and easy to understand.

Writing problem solution essays is more than just an academic essay exercise. It serves as a platform for intellectual growth, developing a practical and impactful approach to societal challenges.

Problem Solution Essay Structure

In crafting a problem-solution essay, the structure plays a pivotal role in presenting ideas coherently and persuasively.

Two commonly used structures for this type of essay are the block structure and the chain structure. Each has its unique approach to organizing information, offering writers flexibility in presenting their analysis and proposed solutions.

Block Structure

The block structure, also known as the whole-to-whole or one-side-at-a-time structure, is a straightforward organizational method.

In this type of structure, the writer dedicates separate blocks of text to first presenting the problem comprehensively. The solutions to the problems are presented in the next sections subsequently.

This structure allows for a clear separation between the problem and solution sections, providing a systematic and easy-to-follow presentation.

Here is an outline for block structure problem-solution essay:

Chain Structure

Contrasting the block structure, the chain structure takes an interconnected approach.

In this format, the essay addresses a specific problem and promptly proposes a solution.

The pattern repeats as each problem is introduced, followed immediately by its corresponding solution. This structure aims to maintain a continuous and engaging flow, presenting a transition between problems and solutions.

Here is a chain structure template:

How to Write a Problem-Solution Essay?

A problem solution essay requires taking a systematic approach. Here are the basic steps for writing this type of essay:

Step 1 - Topic Selection

Choosing the right topic is the first crucial step in writing a problem-solution essay. Pick a real-world issue that genuinely interests you.

Consider problems that have personal significance or affect your community. The goal is to engage with a problem that allows for meaningful discussion and exploration.

Step 2 - Understanding the Problem

Before diving into solutions, take the time to fully grasp the intricacies of the problem at hand.

Research the issue thoroughly, aiming to comprehend its various aspects and implications. This step is essential for presenting a well-informed analysis in your essay, ensuring a solid foundation for proposing solutions.

Step 3 - Explore Viable Solutions

Once you've identified and understood the problem, brainstorm possible solutions.

Think about practical, achievable, and effective ways to address the issue. Consider different angles and perspectives, aiming for solutions that are not only feasible but also have the potential to make a positive impact in real-world scenarios.

Step 4 - Create an Outline

Organize your thoughts and structure your essay by creating a clear outline.

Allocate specific sections for introducing the problem, proposing solutions, and crafting a conclusion. A well-organized outline serves as a roadmap, guiding you through each step of the writing process.

Step 5 - Write the Introduction

Begin your essay with a captivating introduction . Start with an attention-grabbing hook that draws your reader in.

Clearly state the problem, emphasizing its significance. Conclude the introduction with a concise thesis statement that outlines the solutions you will explore in the essay.

Step 6 - Craft Body Paragraph

Dedicate individual paragraphs to each problem and its corresponding solution. Elaborate on the details of the problem and present practical solutions.

Support your ideas with examples, evidence, or real-life scenarios. This section forms the core of your essay, providing a comprehensive exploration of the issues at hand.

Step 7 - Address Possible Objections

Acknowledge and address potential counterarguments to your proposed solutions.

Anticipating objections adds depth to your essay, showcasing a thorough consideration of alternative viewpoints. By addressing possible objections, you strengthen the overall persuasiveness of your solutions.

Step 8 - Conclude The Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points without introducing new information. Reinforce the importance of the proposed solutions and leave a lasting impression.

Consider ending with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement that resonates with your reader. The conclusion should provide a sense of closure to your essay.

Problem-Solution Essay Example

We know that writing this kind of essay could be a challenge. Here are some problem solution essay samples:

Problem Solution Essay Sample PDF

Financial Problem Solution Essay

Garbage Problem Solution Essay

Problem Solution Essay IELTS

Problem Solution Essay Topics

When picking a topic for your problem-solution essay, think about a few important things.

Choose something that matters to your audience and is important in society right now. Pick issues that really affect people or communities and need attention.

Make sure the problem can be realistically solved with practical solutions. Here is a list of problem solution essay topics you can use:

Tobacco should be banned to control lung cancer. Discuss.
Obesity is caused by genetically modified and processed food. Discuss the solution.
Movie scripts should be censored to control violence in youth. Discuss.
How to tackle the lack of resources in urban homeless shelters?
Government should propose some policies to deal with illegal immigration. Discuss.
How can we use social media to improve awareness?
Propose some ways to keep your friends and family safe.
College students in the United States are overburdened with homework.
How to improve the quality of education in high school?
Providing equal opportunities to under-privileged children is important. Discuss.

These are some good problem-solution topics that you can tweak to use as your own.

Problem Solution Essay Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure your problem solution essay is well-crafted and effective:

So, wrapping up, with this guide and checklist, you can now write a problem-solution essay that fulfills its purpose. Just remember to be clear, practical, and interesting.

But if you still feel unsure or want extra help, our professional essay writing service is here for you.

Our experts know how to handle any type of essay, making sure it's top-notch. If you need that extra boost, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We're here to make sure your essay shines and gets the job done.

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Best 50 problem solution essay topics on web.

August 14, 2019

The problem and solution essay topics you find online have been used over and over again by most students. Every problem solution essay topics list has been downloaded tens of thousands of times. Chances are, your classmates will pick some of these topics as well. Do you want your research paper to have the same topic as the essays of three of your classmates? Probably not! We have a solution: our list of the best 50 problem solution essay topics in 2022. They’re updated frequently, and you can use them for free!

Don’t Know How To Write A Problem Solution Essay?

But before we get to the problem solution essay topics for college students, let’s discuss this type of assignment. In most cases, students don’t know how to write a problem solution essay. As its name suggests, the problems solution essay is a writing assignment where you need to find a problem relevant to modern society and then figure out ways to solve it. You need to use your critical thinking to find the best solutions and then explain academically why your solutions are the best. Remember, you need to be very accurate in your writing and support your statements with references. You may be able to write about just one solution if it is complex enough. However, for most issues, we recommend three solutions because this number works best with our proposed problem solution essay structure.

The Simple Problem Solution Essay Structure

The simple way to organize your problem solution essay ideas is by using the five-paragraph essay structure. Here is how it looks like:

You start your problem solution essay with a captivating introduction that presents the problem (or the situation).
Then, you write three body paragraphs, each discussing a single solution.
You wrap everything up with a strong conclusion that reiterates the solutions and emphasizes why they are the best.

Now you see why we’ve advised you to find not just one solution to the problem, but three. If you have a more complex topic, like a breathing problem solution, you can write more than three body paragraphs. After all, there are at least five effective solutions to this problem that we can think of. And remember, always start your writing with a problem solution essay outline. You can create it in just 10 minutes by doing some research, and it will most surely prove to be invaluable. It will keep you organized and on topic – that’s guaranteed. Now that you know how to write a problem solution essay, it’s time to talk about topics.

Why Do You Need Our Problem Solution Essay Topics?

We know you’ve received a lot of different advice about writing problem solution essays. We agree, reading at least one good problem solution essay example is very important. It shows you how to organize your writing, how to present your problem and your solutions, and how to support your statements. However, we feel that good problem solution essay topics are even more important. Think of it this way: no matter how well you write, if the topic is boring, your audience will eventually get bored. It’s just a matter of time. But when you come up with amazing, captivating, and breathtaking topics for problem solution essay, your writing instantly becomes much more interesting.

Most people, including your professor, want to learn new things. They’re not interested in solutions for a simple cold problem. But they most surely are interested in solutions to the greenhouse effect – or in solutions to the obesity issue. And rest assured – there are plenty of topics even more interesting than these. Bottom line, if you want to impress from the moment you read the introduction and the thesis statement, your problem needs to pique the interest of your professor instantly. And you will get bonus points as a reward – guaranteed!

Get Free Problem And Solution Essay Topics Right Here

Remember that for each problem, you need to find at least three solutions and discuss them. You can discuss more than three if the problem is complex. However, you should avoid presenting just one solution. In most cases, this will make your professor think that you didn’t care to spend much time writing the essay. You may get penalized for this, so be aware.

And now, here are the 50 problem and solution essay topics 2022 you have been waiting for:

Problem Solution Speech Topics

How to tackle police brutality in America.
The best solutions that prevent suicides (the permanent solution to a temporary problem).
How can we stop mass shootings?
The solution to the illegal immigration problem.
Here is how we can stop sexual abuse in schools.
The policies that can stop child labor.

Problem Solution Essay Topics For College

How can we solve the student loans problem?
The best ways to control stress in college.
College education can be affordable. Here is how!
Substance abuse can be prevented on college campuses.
How teachers can prevent students from cheating on exams.
The best way to become a more efficient student.

Education Problem Solution Essay Topics

Schools have the means to prevent suicides.
The effective methods that prevent cheating in school.
How can schools keep up with technology?
Schools can eliminate bullying. Here is how!
The solution to racial discrimination in the US education system.
The solution to gender discrimination in the US education system.

Best Relationship Topics

Here is how you can become confident in just three steps!
The easy solutions to an abusive relationship.
How can we solve the problem with overprotective parents?
How can we stop sexting in high school?
The best ways to move out of the “friend zone.”
Helping a depressed friend may be easier than you think.

Social Problems Topics

How can we eliminate racism in the modern world?
Ways to deal with illegal immigrants on the border line.
We can improve literacy in the United States.
The simple solutions to the huge human trafficking problem.
Divorce can be prevented. Here is how!
Solutions to the homeless people problem in the US.

College Life Topics

Here is how you decide on your major quickly.
Do you have problems with your roommate? You can solve them!
Here is how you instantly become an A+ student.
Colleges can be safer: Real solutions.
Why is college so expensive? Any solutions?

Crime Issues

How can we solve the domestic violence issue?
Cyberbullying can be prevented by making it a crime.
The solution to out-of-control gangs in the United States.
We can prevent racial violence. Here is how!
Here is how we stop people from polluting the rivers.

Economic Problem Solution Topics

Unemployment is not difficult to solve, actually.
Ways to increase the tourism rate in California.
The simple solutions to our waste problems.
The simple way to reduce consumer debt in America

Health Issues

Here is how you stop overeating sugar.
Ways to prevent substance abuse in teenagers.
How parents can easily promote sports to their children.
Child obesity is a major problem, but it has a simple solution.
The best alternatives to plastic surgery for cosmetic purposes.

Use Our Great Topics Today

The problem solution essay topics you choose for your academic papers are very important. You will write essays faster if you choose smart topics. You will get bonus points if the topics are interesting. You will not have to do extensive research if you pick a topic you know something about. Pick any topic on our problem solution essay topics list and use it for free . We are just happy to help!

It’s time to nail your grades! Get your 20% discount on the problem solution writing assignment with promo “ ewriting20 ” – and enjoy your college life!

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Task 1 Academic
Task 1 General
Task 2 (essay)

IELTS Writing: problem and solution essay

In this lesson you’ll learn how to answer problems/solutions questions in IELTS Writing . This type of questions gives you an issue and asks you to describe some common problems associated with it and propose some possible solutions.

See problem-solution question sample
Learn how to generate ideas
Learn band 9 answering strategies
See full band 9 answer

Question sample

This is an example of problem-solution question in IELTS Writing:

Despite a large number of gyms, a sedentary lifestyle is gaining popularity in the contemporary world.

What problems are associated with this?

What solutions can you suggest?

How to answer the question?

Before starting to write your answer, you should think of 1-2 problems and 1-2 solutions, so you know what to write about. In our case:

Problems associated with sedentary lifestyle :

problems with backbone (osteoporosis, scoliosis)

Solutions :

promote walking and cycling as safe and attractive alternatives to motorized transport
promote visiting gyms and doing exercises

Now, after we’ve generated some ideas for our essay, it’s time to use them in our writing .

Remember : it’s not enough to simply state these facts, you should also extend the ideas in your writing.

Band 9 answer structure

Although there are many possible ways to structure your essay, we’ll use this band 9 answer structure that has been approved by many IELTS examiners:

Band-9 essay structure:

Introduction
Body paragraph 1 - problems
Body paragraph 2 - effects

Let’s take a look at each of these sections in detail:

Introduction Write your introduction in two sentences:

Sentence 1 - paraphrase the statement (you can use ‘nowadays/today/these days’ to start):

These days a sedentary lifestyle is becoming more and more popular despite a big number of sport facilities.

Sentence 2 - say what you’ll write about in your essay:

This essay will discuss the main problems associated with this epidemic and propose some possible solutions to avoid them.

Body paragraph 1- problems

Sentence 1 - summarise the main problems of inactive lifestyle:

The main problems caused by inactive lifestyle are obesity and various spine disorders.

Sentences 2-3 - state and explain the first problem (you can also give an example). It’s very important to expand your opinion! Imagine that your examiner doesn’t know this subject at all and you have to explain everything in detail:

A growing number of body research shows that long periods of physical inactivity raise a risk of becoming overweight. This is because people burn fewer calories and easily gain weight.

Sentences 4-5 - describe the second problem (as usual, expand your opinion). You can give an example and use linking words ‘ moreover’ , ’ what’s more’ or ‘ also ’ to start:

What’s more, a lot of studies show that so-called ‘sitting disease’ often results in posture and backbone problems. Due to constant sitting, person loses muscle tissue and curves spine, developing numerous spinal diseases. For example, it has been proven that about 80% of people experience backache at least once a week.

Body paragraph 2 - solutions

Sentence 1 - briefly state the main solutions:

In my opinion, the best solution to this problem is promoting active lifestyle.

Sentences 2-3 - write the first solution and explain it:

Firstly, millions of people stay less active because they use cars instead of walking. Therefore, an effective way to make people more active is to advertise walking and cycling as safe and attractive alternatives to motorized transport.

Moreover, inactive lifestyle is gaining popularity because nowadays a lot of people prefer passive rest to workouts in the gym. And the best way to avoid the hazards of unhealthy living is to obtain a regular dose of physical activity. Thus, promoting gyms and regular exercising would increase the level of activity.

Write your conclusion in 2 sentences by summing up the problems and solutions you’ve written in your body paragraphs:

In conclusion, leading a sedentary lifestyle causes a lot of health problems, including obesity and spinal diseases. The most effective solution is to increase the level of fitness among the society by advertising physical activity.

Band 9 answer sample

These days a sedentary lifestyle is becoming more and more popular despite a big number of sport facilities. This essay will discuss the main problems associated with this epidemic and propose some possible solutions to avoid them.

The main problems caused by inactive lifestyle are obesity and various spine disorders. A growing number of body research shows that long periods of physical inactivity raise a risk of becoming overweight. This is because people burn fewer calories and easily gain weight. What’s more, a lot of studies show that so-called ‘sitting disease’ often results in posture and backbone problems. Due to constant sitting, person loses muscle tissue and curves spine, developing numerous spinal diseases. For example, it has been proven that about 80% of people experience backache at least once a week.

In my opinion, the best solution to these problems is promoting active lifestyle. Firstly, millions of people stay less active because they use cars instead of walking. Therefore, an effective way to make people more active is to advertise walking and cycling as safe and attractive alternatives to motorized transport. Moreover, inactive lifestyle is gaining popularity because nowadays a lot of people prefer passive rest to workouts in the gym. And the best way to avoid the hazards of unhealthy living is to obtain a regular dose of physical activity. Thus, promoting gyms and regular exercising would increase the level of activity.

(268 words)

Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Topics & Sample Questions

Searching for Problem Solution Essay IELTS Check out these problem solution essay tips sample questions to increase your IELTS score

8/18/2023 2 min read

Introduction

In the realm of IELTS writing tasks, the problem-solution essay stands out as a distinctive format that requires a strategic approach. This essay type necessitates students to identify a problem and propose effective solutions. It is an opportunity to showcase not only language skills but also critical thinking abilities. This article delves into the intricacies of problem-solution essays for IELTS, providing valuable insights, topics, and sample questions.

Understanding the Problem-Solution Essay

What is a problem-solution essay.

A problem-solution essay is an academic composition that addresses a specific issue by presenting well-structured solutions. This format is designed to assess a candidate's capacity to analyze complex problems, offer plausible remedies, and communicate ideas effectively.

The Structure of a Problem-Solution Essay

Introduction : Setting the stage by introducing the problem and its significance.

Problem Description : Clearly defining the issue and its implications.

Challenges Analysis : Examining the underlying causes and hurdles.

Solutions Proposal : Presenting feasible solutions with detailed explanations.

Evaluation of Solutions : Weighing the pros and cons of each proposed solution.

Conclusion : Summarizing the discussed problem and solutions.

Selecting the Right Problem

Identifying a suitable problem.

Before delving into crafting solutions, it's essential to choose a relevant problem. Opt for a topic that resonates with contemporary issues, ensuring there is ample information available to support your arguments.

Balancing Complexity and Feasibility

While selecting a problem, strike a balance between complexity and feasibility. An excessively intricate issue might lead to convoluted solutions, whereas an overly simple problem could limit your analysis.

Crafting Effective Solutions

Brainstorming for solutions.

Dedicate time to brainstorming potential solutions. Consider both conventional and innovative ideas to address the problem comprehensively.

Incorporating Realism

When proposing solutions, ensure they are realistic and practical. Far-fetched ideas might undermine the credibility of your essay.

Providing Detailed Explanations

Each solution presented should be accompanied by a thorough explanation of its implementation and expected outcomes. This showcases your ability to reason and articulate ideas effectively.

Sample Questions and Topics

Sample questions.

Question : In many countries, plastic waste is causing environmental harm. What are the solutions to this issue?

Question : With the rise of obesity, what measures can be taken to promote healthier lifestyles?

Environmental Pollution : Addressing air, water, and soil pollution through policy changes and public awareness.

Youth Unemployment : Strategies to create more job opportunities for the younger generation.

Access to Education : Ensuring quality education for underprivileged communities through innovative approaches.

The problem-solution essay in IELTS writing assesses your ability to dissect complex issues and offer practical solutions. Mastering this format requires a combination of critical thinking, language proficiency, and creativity. By selecting pertinent problems, formulating realistic solutions, and providing comprehensive explanations, you can excel in crafting impressive problem-solution essays.

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Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Topics & Sample Questions

Updated On December 12, 2023
Published In IELTS Preparation 💻

Problem and solution essay IELTS or cause and solution essay IELTS is a common type of essay question asked in IELTS Writing Task 2 Exam. Herein, a problem is presented to the candidate and you are asked to suggest relevant, specific, and possible solutions regarding the same.

Table of Contents

You can either write about 2 problems with both their solutions or discuss one major problem and one solution. As long as you extend and explain your ideas, you will be able to communicate your thoughts to the examiner. Maintain a formal tone throughout your essay. In a problem and solution essay IELTS might ask the candidate to discuss any of the following:

Cause of the problem
Effect of a problem
Methods to prevent the problem
Possible and effective solutions to the problem

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Problem Solution Essay Question: Evaluation Factors

IELTS writing tests are evaluated across 4 main factors or areas when your IELTS band scores are calculated. These areas are:

Achievement of the task – The examiner notices here to what extent you have addressed all the parts of the task with explained and well-developed ideas.
Cohesion and Coherence – The logical flow and organization of your ideas and information, are examined here. The examiner notices whether the essay has a logical progression of thoughts.
Lexical Resource – The vocabulary used in the essay and its accuracy is examined here. You should use lexical items with sophistication.
Grammatical accuracy and range – Lastly, the examiner evaluates whether the candidate has used the grammatical structures accurately. Sentences with sophisticated clauses and a clear flow should be used.

Tips to Create an IELTS Problem Solution Essay Structure

While structuring the essay in your head, make sure to use a proper approach for these questions. The steps to structure the essays are:

Analyze the question thoroughly

Analyzing the question is a crucial part of answering any IELTS writing essay questions. You can analyze the question in the best way through three main things:

Keywords : These are the specific words that inform you about the general topic.
Micro Keywords : These keywords identify the parts of the general topic that the examiner wants you to focus on. They generally give an opinion by emphasizing a sub-category of the topic.
Action Words : Instruction words or action words make it clear for the candidates what the examiner wants them to do.

Think of Ideas

Now that the purpose of the question is clear to you, form a specific idea for the essay in your head. For each problem you think of, identify a direct solution for the same.

Follow the structure & write down the essay

Write down the essay by ensuring to follow a proper structure, including an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The essay should include examples and discuss possible solutions.

Also Read: Latest 50+ IELTS Essay Topics in 2022

Problem Solution IELTS Essay Pattern

A basic four-paragraph structure should be used to structure the problem solution IELTS essays. The structure is as follows:

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

In the introduction paragraph, you can first paraphrase the statement part of the question and outline the ideas to be discussed in the essay further. Paraphrasing the questions means rephrasing the sentence without changing its meaning using synonyms. The outline sentence helps the examiner to understand what they can expect from the essay and thus ensure clarity. Cohesion and clarity play an important role in the scoring of the essay.

Paragraph 2 – Problems

In the second paragraph, state the problems you thought of and then explain the first problem and the second problem in the second half of the essay thoroughly.

Paragraph 3 – Solutions

In the third paragraph, list down the solutions to the problems listed above, the first solution with its examples, and then the second solution along with relevant examples that support the solution.

Paragraph 4 – Conclusion

In the conclusion paragraph, cover all the important points discussed in the above 3 paragraphs and end your essay.

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Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Topics & Sample Questions

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Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Key Points to Remember

Some of the main points to remember while attempting the problem solution essay questions in IELTS are:

You have only 40 minutes to complete the essay writing task, and you have to write a minimum of 250 words.
Use linking words, collocations, and phrases to ensure a flow in the essay.
If you are using any facts or statistical data, make sure it is accurate and reliable.
Make sure that the introduction is clear and engaging. It helps the examiner to get a sense of what will be discussed in the essay further.
Use refined and accurate grammar and vocabulary, which will help the examiner understand your proficiency in the language.
Provide relevant examples to explain your content. An explanation of your opinions is the best way to ensure a higher IELTS score.
Identify the keywords and secondary keywords. Relate them with the problems and the solutions, and make sure to include the keywords in the content.
Plan the problems you are going to discuss in your head and the possible solutions before writing them down.
The paragraphs should be ideally balanced by discussing the problems in one body paragraph and solutions in the second body paragraph.

Also Read: Updated List Vocabulary for IELTS 2022

Common Mistakes

Though problem solution essay IELTS is highly asked in the exam, there are some common mistakes that are made by the candidates. Some of these mistakes that a candidate can avoid while attempting these types of questions are:

Candidates often do not expand on their ideas and often list down a lot of problems and solutions. The examiners mark the essays on the basis of the explanation of the problems and solutions listed. It is usually advised to pick a problem or two along with their solutions and then explain them with relevant examples.
Another common mistake by the candidates is writing indirectly about solutions that are not directly related to the questions. You should opt for concrete ideas rather than writing a generalized answer. Identify the keywords and the micro-keywords from the question and try to include those in the topic.
Many people often list down good problems but fail to link them with the solutions. Each problem should have a directly linked solution that actually solves the problem.
Learn to identify the problem and solution and causes and solution questions as both of them might look similar but have a certain difference in how they are to be structured.
Avoid writing in absolute terms by using qualifiers which ensure that your sentences look like claims rather than proven facts.

Problem Solution Essay IELTS Sample Questions

There are many themes for the problem solution essay topics IELTS related to various problems. Some of the problem solution essay IELTS topics questions for your practice are as given below:

Theme 1 – Cities

Nowadays, it is getting difficult for people to enjoy their lives in cities. Why do you think this is? What can the government do to make life in cities more enjoyable?
In large cities, the issue of overpopulation has been a significant cause of concern which leads to a lack of jobs and traffic congestion. What is the cause of this? How can government help in solving this problem?
In many cities and urban areas around the world, crime is increasing. What is the cause of this? How can governments help to prevent the crimes?

Theme 2 – Technology & the internet

People from older generations face difficulty in using new technology. What is the cause behind this? What are some possible solutions to this problem?
A lot of children spend time on social media surfing the internet and playing video games which hurts their studies and grades and makes them experience loneliness and health problems such as obesity. What is the reason behind this? What can the parents do to prevent it?
The internet has changed the way information is consumed and shared among people. What are some serious issues a person can face associated with the internet, and what solutions can be implemented?

Theme 3 – Environment or Climate Change

Sea levels are steadily rising in recent years. What do you think is the reason behind this? How can it be fixed?
Many countries around the world are suffering from poor water and air quality, which is harmful to all of us, especially older people. What is the cause of this? How can it be solved?
Climate change and global warming is a serious threat the world is facing, which is reducing the average life expectancy. What are some causes of this? How can governments and healthcare sectors solve this problem?

IELTS Advantages & Disadvantage Essay Topics

Foreign Language IELTS Sample Essay

A sample of the Problem Solution Essay Example Question IELTS for Writing Test 2 is given below for your reference:

As social media continue to develop, more and more youngsters have unsupervised access to all the contents available over the internet in order to meet and chat with friends and even strangers, which can lead to some potentially dangerous situations. What solutions can you suggest to deal with this problem?

IELTS Problem Solution Essay

In the modern era, a large number of young people use the internet to meet and talk with friends via social media. Due to social media and the growth of the internet in the 21st century, many children are facing issues related to their health and the expression of their feelings as a result of the lack of face-to-face interaction. This issue can be solved by opting for some measures.

To begin with, there are many people all over the world who use the internet for their work or education purposes. As a result, everyone uses it until late at night, which can lead to a variety of health issues, such as vision problems from constantly staring at computers or mobile phones and spinal curvatures from excessive sitting in front of computers and laptops. Secondly, due to the nature of online meetings and conversations, there is a lack of face-to-face interaction among people due to which youngsters are unable to express their feelings due to the loss of peer interaction.

Parents can help in resolving these issues by blocking the access of children to websites that are not children-friendly. In addition to that, parents can encourage children to go out and play instead of being on the internet all day in exchange for a surprise or more quality time. Social media companies can also contribute to the solution by restricting the access of children to the platforms on the basis of their age, which can protect them from content that is not suitable for them. For example, the social media platform Facebook recently updated its privacy policies to restrict access to children under the age of ten.

To summarize, young people use the internet to interact with various types of people online without any supervision, which gives them a sense of freedom and confidence in sending unethical messages to others. To stay out of it, parents should monitor their communication and provide suitable guidance and advice to their children.

Problem Solution Essay IELTS is a type of question that includes problems for which you have to find the solutions through a logical flow of thought. 40 minutes are given to complete the 250 words essay writing task. The structure of the essay for a problem-solving question includes an introduction, discussion of problems, possible solutions with examples, and a conclusion.

The introduction has an overview of the essay. The main body paragraphs discuss the problems along with their direct solutions and examples. The conclusion paragraph summarizes your opinion on the task. You need to discuss the problems caused by the issues and the measures to reduce or eliminate the problem altogether.

You do not just need to state problems and solutions but also need to explain the thought process to reach that solution. Make sure the essay is readable and has a logical flow and cohesion.

You can practice for the Problem Solution Essay IELTS by writing on various topics or themes available on the internet ranging from the internet, cities, poverty, problems of rural areas or developing countries, lifestyle in developed countries, success, news, etc.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can i write the problem and solution both in one paragraph.

Ans. No, you can not write the problem and solution both in the same paragraph as this will affect the flow and understanding of the essay. The cause and the solution or the problems and the solution will both be discussed in two different paragraphs of the main body.

How can I identify a problem solution essay type?

Ans. In the problem solution essay questions, a topic is given, and you will have to discuss the issues or problems faced in regards to that particular topic. Often, these questions can also ask for your opinion on a particular issue.

What is the difference between a cause solution essay and a problem solution essay?

Ans. Problem solution essay and cause solution essay are highly similar. However, there is a subtle difference between the two. A problem solution essay question asks about the problem with regards to a particular topic, whereas the cause solution essay asks about the causes behind an issue. The problem is to be mentioned in both the essays. However, in the cause solution essay, you should focus more on the cause of that particular statement.

How can I write a solution paragraph?

Ans. First of all, for a solution paragraph, you need to develop ideas related to the given problem in your mind to check whether or not your ideas are directly relevant to the problem. After then, you have to decide how you will explain the solution to all the problems in a precise manner. After then, develop your solution with the help of a detailed explanation.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem and Solution Topics/Questions 2024

The list of Task 2 Problem and Solution topics that were added by IELTS student in 2024 . These Problem and Solution questions could be repeated from previous months. Keep in mind that the provided Problem and Solution questions are not predictions. The collection of Problem and Solution questions is updated every hour. Choose one of the topics and start practicing answering this type of question to prepare for the IELTS exam and to get a good grade.

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Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics: A List of Common Essay Topics to Guide You for the Exam

IELTS writing discusses a number of essay topics. From the topics that contend with your own views and one where you discuss different social problems. This is the only segment where you can compose your thoughts and views in an ordered way. Unnecessary to mention, this segment is evaluated very minutely and you need to be completely concentrated in order to score well.

One section that is very recurring in the writing section is the problem-solution style essay in IELTS. Here, you are offered a disturbing situation and are asked to recommend appropriate solutions to a particular situation.

Problem Solution Essay IELTS

Problem-solution essays are among the most important IELTS Writing Task 2 topics on the academic paper. While being so common, a lot of students are not doing well on these topics. This article will focus on some of the more common errors and then take you stepwise to answer certain questions.

Common Mistakes in Problem Solution Essay

The most common error in problem-solving essays is not to build on your thoughts, but simply to describe a lot of problems and solutions. The interviewer does not require a list of all the issues and ideas that you might think of. Alternatively, the examiner wants you to select one or two problems and solutions and then elaborate on them with details and suggestions if you check into how the exam is graded.
Writing regarding concerns and solutions that are not specifically related to the issue is another typical error. When addressing the question, you should be like a hunter and just offer very clear suggestions, instead of ideas that simply speak about the overall problem. In the questions that we will look at below, this has a lot to do with how you define keywords and micro-keywords.

Avoid these Mistakes

Many people conceive of interesting ideas for problems and yet struggle to relate their solutions to these problems. The problem must have a solution that is specifically related to it or, in other words, it should fix the real problem.
At the end of the day, many candidates dream of pretty interesting questions and ideas that answer the issue correctly and then extend their responses with explanations and examples, but they speak too commonly. Alternatively, you should ask about concrete cases and interpretations.⠀

Also Read: IELTS Writing Task Evaluation with Sample Answer: A Guide To Better Band Score

Analyse the Question: Problem Solution Essay

This is one of the most critical aspects of addressing any written question from IELTS. If you don’t have the opportunity to think thoroughly about what the interviewer is expecting you to do, it is very hard to interpret the question accurately.

We evaluate the problem by worrying about 3 factors:

Micro-keywords
Action words

Keywords are the terms that tell us what the basic theme is.

Micro-keywords define which aspect of the general theme the interviewer needs you to address. They also offer an opinion, qualify an argument, or speak about a subcategory of a broader general topic.

The words of action teach us what the investigator needs us to do.

Problem Solution Sample Essay: Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics

Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics: Global warming is one of the biggest threats humans face in the 21st Century and sea levels are continuing to rise at alarming rates.

What are the problems involved with this and what are some potential solutions?

Part One: Problem Solution Essay IELTS

If we look at the problem, we see that the terms are ‘global warming.’ This is our core concept. We’re trying to talk about this, but we can’t write about any issues associated with global warming. When we do this, we haven’t answered the issue properly. Consequently, we need to focus on micro-keywords.

The micro keywords are ‘humans’ and ‘a rising sea level.’ But rather than only writing about the big issue of global warming and any issues associated with it (such as intensified hurricanes, extinction of many species, soil erosion), we need to worry about how especially rising sea levels could impact humans. Although, for example , we were concerned about issues involving the ‘earth’ or ‘animals’ or the ‘atmosphere,’ we may not have addressed the issue.

Also Read: Describe a Person Who is Very Open: IELTS Speaking Cue Card Sample Answers

Part Two: Problem Solution Essay IELTS

Words in action are problems and solutions. Therefore, our job is to write about it and that alone. It does not challenge our viewpoint or the drawbacks and advantages or the reasons, but the challenges and solutions. If we wanted to ask about the causes of rising sea levels, we would not be addressing the issue.

Rather than brainstorming or brainstorming ideas, in my view, take too much time and contribute to useless ideas-you can just imagine that you’re in a coffee shop with a friend, and they’ve just asked you a simple query. In this scenario, it will be “What are the challenges and approaches associated with the rise of the sea level on humans? ”

Part Three: Problem Solution Essay IELTS

If you were speaking to a friend about this, I’m sure you’d have no trouble thinking of at least 2 or 3 issues and solutions. This approach gets you out of the exam scenario and places your mind in a more comfortable environment. You’ve got a lot of ideas now, but now you’ve got to consider which ones to use.

Also Read: 10 Must-Follow IELTS Reading Tips and Tricks to Boost Your Band Score

Relationship Topics: Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics

How can social media bullying be prevented?
What is the best way to help someone who is depressed?
What’s the best way to deal with manipulative and domineering people?
How can you help a friend or roommate who is making poor life choices?
How can you get out of a bad relationship?
How can you move out of the “friend zone”?
What is the best way for a woman to show a man she is interested? Should she ask him out?
How has texting affected face-to-face relationships?

Social Problems: Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics

How can we help homeless people in our community?
How can we prevent people from dropping out of high school?
What is the best way to prevent teen pregnancy?
How can kids be persuaded not to experiment with illegal drugs?
What is the best way to prevent deaths from drunk driving?
How can teenagers be convinced to drive more safely?
What can be done to prevent divorce?
How can kids with divorced parents be helped to do well in school, have strong relationships, and build successful lives and marriages?

Athletes and Sports: IELTS Problems

How can steroid use be limited in all sports (or one in particular)?
Should college athletes be paid?
How can colleges better handle the combination of education, athletics, and business?
Do kids train too hard in athletics at young ages?
What is the best way for a young athlete to learn a sport? (You might want to talk about a particular sport you know well).
How can coaches best encourage their athletes to do their best?
Think about your local sports team. What can be done to make that team more effective? How can the fans be made to support the team more?
Pick your favourite sport. How can someone best prepare themselves to be excellent at that sport?

Also Read: 6 Tips for IELTS Writing Skill Enhancement: Get Your Desired Band Score

Education: IELTS Problems

How can parents make virtual learning effective?
How can we make education better for kids who have trouble in school?
How can schools help the problem of childhood obesity?
How can schools best serve special education students?
How can schools allocate more money and resources for sports, fine arts, and other special programs?
What should be done about misbehaving and disruptive students?
What should be done to make gifted and talented education programs effective?
How can we help kids who are in failing schools?

Family Life: IELTS Preparation

How can parents best handle homework?
How can parents handle their child’s cell phone and social media use appropriately?
Should parents be held responsible for the obesity of their children? What should be done to help families with obese children?
How can parents help their children have a positive body image and avoid eating disorders?
What can be done about parents who push too hard for their children to achieve in sports, academics, fine arts, or another area?
What can be done to increase the number of children who are adopted?
How can we prevent young people from ageing out of the child welfare system without ever finding a family?
What is the best way to help families who have a child with a mental illness?

We hope that this article will be a helping hand for your next IELTS exam. This section can be a tough one to tackle but if you keep your head calm and think wisely, you might easily crack this exam with a good band score. Don’t forget to try out the topics mentioned in this article. Practice 4-5 topics daily to become an expert in IELTS preparations. Always give mock tests before the exam to know your speed and time management

Best of luck!

Also Read: Describe Something You Enjoy doing with a Group of People: IELTS Exam Cue Card Topic

These are some pretty common topics, and thank you for guiding us on how to write an essay.

This was such an informative article. It helped me a lot to learn more about IELTS as an individual. Keep writing such blogs as they are a great help to people like us.

This article has so much information that is very helpful and important, can you also help with tips for other section?

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Guest Essay

A Year on Ozempic Taught Me We’re Thinking About Obesity All Wrong

A photo illustration of junk food — potato chips, cheesecake and bacon — spiraling into a black background.

By Johann Hari

Mr. Hari is a British journalist and the author of “Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits — and Disturbing Risks — of the New Weight Loss Drugs.”

Ever since I was a teenager, I have dreamed of shedding a lot of weight. So when I shrank from 203 pounds to 161 in a year, I was baffled by my feelings. I was taking Ozempic, and I was haunted by the sense that I was cheating and doing something immoral.

I’m not the only one. In the United States (where I now split my time), over 70 percent of people are overweight or obese, and according to one poll, 47 percent of respondents said they were willing to pay to take the new weight-loss drugs. It’s not hard to see why. They cause users to lose an average of 10 to 20 percent of their body weight, and clinical trials suggest that the next generation of drugs (probably available soon) leads to a 24 percent loss, on average. Yet as more and more people take drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, we get more confused as a culture, bombarding anyone in the public eye who takes them with brutal shaming.

This is happening because we are trapped in a set of old stories about what obesity is and the morally acceptable ways to overcome it. But the fact that so many of us are turning to the new weight-loss drugs can be an opportunity to find a way out of that trap of shame and stigma — and to a more truthful story.

In my lifetime, obesity has exploded, from being rare to almost being the norm. I was born in 1979, and by the time I was 21, obesity rates in the United States had more than doubled . They have skyrocketed since. The obvious question is, why? And how do these new weight-loss drugs work? The answer to both lies in one word: satiety. It’s a concept that we don’t use much in everyday life but that we’ve all experienced at some point. It describes the sensation of having had enough and not wanting any more.

The primary reason we have gained weight at a pace unprecedented in human history is that our diets have radically changed in ways that have deeply undermined our ability to feel sated. My father grew up in a village in the Swiss mountains, where he ate fresh, whole foods that had been cooked from scratch and prepared on the day they were eaten. But in the 30 years between his childhood and mine, in the suburbs of London, the nature of food transformed across the Western world. He was horrified to see that almost everything I ate was reheated and heavily processed. The evidence is clear that the kind of food my father grew up eating quickly makes you feel full. But the kind of food I grew up eating, much of which is made in factories, often with artificial chemicals, left me feeling empty and as if I had a hole in my stomach. In a recent study of what American children eat, ultraprocessed food was found to make up 67 percent of their daily diet. This kind of food makes you want to eat more and more. Satiety comes late, if at all.

One scientific experiment — which I have nicknamed Cheesecake Park — seemed to me to crystallize this effect. Paul Kenny, a neuroscientist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, grew up in Ireland. After he moved in 2000 to the United States, when he was in his 20s, he gained 30 pounds in two years. He began to wonder if the American diet has some kind of strange effect on our brains and our cravings, so he designed an experiment to test it. He and his colleague Paul Johnson raised a group of rats in a cage and gave them an abundant supply of healthy, balanced rat chow made out of the kind of food rats had been eating for a very long time. The rats would eat it when they were hungry, and then they seemed to feel sated and stopped. They did not become fat.

But then Dr. Kenny and his colleague exposed the rats to an American diet: fried bacon, Snickers bars, cheesecake and other treats. They went crazy for it. The rats would hurl themselves into the cheesecake, gorge themselves and emerge with their faces and whiskers totally slicked with it. They quickly lost almost all interest in the healthy food, and the restraint they used to show around healthy food disappeared. Within six weeks, their obesity rates soared.

After this change, Dr. Kenny and his colleague tweaked the experiment again (in a way that seems cruel to me, a former KFC addict). They took all the processed food away and gave the rats their old healthy diet. Dr. Kenny was confident that they would eat more of it, proving that processed food had expanded their appetites. But something stranger happened. It was as though the rats no longer recognized healthy food as food at all, and they barely ate it. Only when they were starving did they reluctantly start to consume it again.

Though Dr. Kenny’s study was in rats, we can see forms of this behavior everywhere. We are all living in Cheesecake Park — and the satiety-stealing effect of industrially assembled food is evidently what has created the need for these medications. Drugs like Ozempic work precisely by making us feel full. Carel le Roux, a scientist whose research was important to the development of these drugs, says they boost what he and others once called “satiety hormones.”

Once you understand this context, it becomes clear that processed and ultraprocessed food create a raging hole of hunger, and these treatments can repair that hole. Michael Lowe, a professor of psychology at Drexel University who has studied hunger for 40 years, told me the drugs are “an artificial solution to an artificial problem.”

Yet we have reacted to this crisis largely caused by the food industry as if it were caused only by individual moral dereliction. I felt like a failure for being fat and was furious with myself for it. Why do we turn our anger inward and not outward at the main cause of the crisis? And by extension, why do we seek to shame people taking Ozempic but not those who, say, take drugs to lower their blood pressure?

The answer, I think, lies in two very old notions. The first is the belief that obesity is a sin. When Pope Gregory I laid out the seven deadly sins in the sixth century, one of them was gluttony, usually illustrated with grotesque-seeming images of overweight people. Sin requires punishment before you can get to redemption. Think about the competition show “The Biggest Loser,” on which obese people starve and perform extreme forms of exercise in visible agony in order to demonstrate their repentance.

The second idea is that we are all in a competition when it comes to weight. Ours is a society full of people fighting against the forces in our food that are making us fatter. It is often painful to do this: You have to tolerate hunger or engage in extreme forms of exercise. It feels like a contest in which each thin person creates additional pressure on others to do the same. Looked at in this way, people on Ozempic can resemble athletes like the cyclist Lance Armstrong who used performance-enhancing drugs. Those who manage their weight without drugs might think, “I worked hard for this, and you get it for as little as a weekly jab?”

We can’t find our way to a sane, nontoxic conversation about obesity or Ozempic until we bring these rarely spoken thoughts into the open and reckon with them. You’re not a sinner for gaining weight. You’re a typical product of a dysfunctional environment that makes it very hard to feel full. If you are angry about these drugs, remember the competition isn’t between you and your neighbor who’s on weight-loss drugs. It’s between you and a food industry constantly designing new ways to undermine your satiety. If anyone is the cheat here, it’s that industry. We should be united in a struggle against it and its products, not against desperate people trying to find a way out of this trap.

There are extraordinary benefits as well as disturbing risks associated with weight-loss drugs. Reducing or reversing obesity hugely boosts health, on average: We know from years of studying bariatric surgery that it slashes the risks of cancer, heart disease and diabetes-related death. Early indications are that the new anti-obesity drugs are moving people in a similar radically healthier direction, massively reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke. But these drugs may increase the risk for thyroid cancer. I am worried they diminish muscle mass and fear they may supercharge eating disorders. This is a complex picture in which the evidence has to be weighed very carefully.

But we can’t do that if we remain lost in stories inherited from premodern popes or in a senseless competition that leaves us all, in the end, losers. Do we want these weight loss drugs to be another opportunity to tear one another down? Or do we want to realize that the food industry has profoundly altered the appetites of us all — leaving us trapped in the same cage, scrambling to find a way out?

Johann Hari is a British journalist and the author of “Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits — and Disturbing Risks — of the New Weight Loss Drugs,” among other books.

Source photographs by seamartini, The Washington Post, and Zana Munteanu via Getty Images.

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4 Common Types of Team Conflict — and How to Resolve Them

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Stephen L. Jones

Advice backed by three decades of research into thousands of team conflicts around the world.

Managers spend 20% of their time on average managing team conflict. Over the past three decades, the authors have studied thousands of team conflicts around the world and have identified four common patterns of team conflict. The first occurs when conflict revolves around a single member of a team (20-25% of team conflicts). The second is when two members of a team disagree (the most common team conflict at 35%). The third is when two subgroups in a team are at odds (20-25%). The fourth is when all members of a team are disagreeing in a whole-team conflict (less than 15%). The authors suggest strategies to tailor a conflict resolution approach for each type, so that managers can address conflict as close to its origin as possible.

If you have ever managed a team or worked on one, you know that conflict within a team is as inevitable as it is distracting. Many managers avoid dealing with conflict in their team where possible, hoping reasonable people can work it out. Despite this, research shows that managers spend upwards of 20% of their time on average managing conflict.

Randall S. Peterson is the academic director of the Leadership Institute and a professor of organizational behavior at London Business School. He teaches leadership on the School’s Senior Executive and Accelerated Development Program.
PS Priti Pradhan Shah is a professor in the Department of Work and Organization at the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. She teaches negotiation in the School’s Executive Education and MBA Programs.
AF Amanda J. Ferguson is an associate professor of Management at Northern Illinois University. She teaches Organizational Behavior and Leading Teams in the School’s MBA programs.
SJ Stephen L. Jones is an associate professor of Management at the University of Washington Bothell. He teaches Organizational and Strategic Management at the MBA level.

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100 Problem Solution Essay Topics with Sample Essays
After you have chosen your topic, you can find instructions about how to develop your ideas, find a unique solution to the problem, and organize your essay in "How to Write Your Problem Solution Paper." 4 Parts of Problem Solution. Describe a problem vividly. Propose a solution. Argue that the solution is practical, feasible, cost-effective ...
120 Problem and Solution Essay Topics
Table of contents. 1 120 Problem Solution Essay Topics List. 1.1 Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics. 1.2 Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas. 1.3 Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas. 1.4 Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay. 1.5 Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics.
A List of 339 Problem Solution Essay Topics & Questions
Problem solution: best snacks INC. Solutions to the problem of steroids in sports and athletics. Problem solution: global communications. The problem of global warming and ways of its solution. Cyber-bullying and ways to solve the problem. Losses of personal data: problem and solution.
40 Problem-Solution Essay Topics to Help You Get Started
A problem-solution essay that addresses economic problems is compelling precisely because everyone is eager for answers—especially college graduates. Check out these six problem-solution essay topics about economics for essay ideas. 6. Problem: Student loan debts.
60 Innovative Problem-Solution Essay Topics
The key to getting a great grade is finding a problem-solution essay topic about which you feel passionate. These ideas will help!
50 Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students
Hope this list of problem solution essay topics has helped you find a great idea and inspired you to delve into and come up with innovative solutions! Share This Story, Choose Your Platform! About the Author: Nataly. Hi, I am Nataly and love engaging, fit for purpose, and edited to perfection writing. Feel free to reach out to work with me ...
Problem-solution essays
Problem-solution essays consider the problems of a particular situation, and give solutions to those problems. They are in some ways similar to cause and effect essays, especially in terms of structure (see below). Problem-solution essays are actually a sub-type of another type of essay, which has the following four components: Situation. Problem.
All You Need to Know About Writing a Problem Solution Essay
Problem Solution Essay Topics. The list of problem solution essay topics is very long. As mentioned earlier, the problem can be a local issue, affecting a specific demographic or being universal. Regardless of the topic you choose, there are another million waiting for an answer. To start you off, the climate crisis is an excellent area for debate.
A comprehensive guide to writing problem solution essay
To simplify, the standard structure of a problem solution consists of four paragraphs in which the introduction usually starts with asking a question that reflects the main problem. Along with this, the introduction also consists of the outline and the thesis statement of the essay. Following the introduction, as per standard structuring, there ...
250+ Problem Solution Essay Topics for Your Study
Problem Solution Essay Topics for Business. When running a company, many problems can arise - for instance, marketing tactics or cybersecurity. If you are interested in business, you can pick numerous topics for problem solution essays. Below is a list of problem ideas for your essay that focuses on solving problems.
Top 130 Problem Solution Essay Topics
Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students. Problem solution essays are one of the most common essays for college students. Students in college face a unique set of problems from other students. It is essential to write topics for problem solution essay on issues that you can relate to or have experienced.
IELTS Problem Solution Essay Strategies and Tips
Here again is a plan for the problem solution essay for the solutions paragraph: Solution 1: Governments. Idea: Adequate legislation and controls for young people. How: More complex website access criteria. Solution 2: Parents. Idea: Monitor children and restrict access. How: Use a computer program.
IELTS Problem Solution Essays
Essay Structure. Now let's look at a simple structure you can use to write IELTS problem solution essays. It's not the only possible structure but it's the one I recommend because it's easy to learn and will enable you to quickly plan and write a high-level essay. 1) Introduction. Paraphrase the question.
An Ultimate Guide to Writing IELTS Problem Solution Essays
The IELTS problem solution essay topics can be drawn from a variety of sources and are based on real-world situations and issues. Therefore, to do well in writing task 2, it is important to be familiar with the range of IELTS problem solution essay topics. Identifying IELTS Problem Solution Essays
Guide To Problem Solution Essay
Problem Solution Essay Topics. When picking a topic for your problem-solution essay, think about a few important things. Choose something that matters to your audience and is important in society right now. Pick issues that really affect people or communities and need attention.
50 Interesting Problem Solution Essay Topics 2022
The simple way to organize your problem solution essay ideas is by using the five-paragraph essay structure. Here is how it looks like: You start your problem solution essay with a captivating introduction that presents the problem (or the situation). Then, you write three body paragraphs, each discussing a single solution.
Problem/solution essay in IELTS writing
Sentence 1 - briefly state the main solutions: In my opinion, the best solution to this problem is promoting active lifestyle. Sentences 2-3 - write the first solution and explain it: Firstly, millions of people stay less active because they use cars instead of walking.
Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Topics & Sample Questions
The problem-solution essay in IELTS writing assesses your ability to dissect complex issues and offer practical solutions. Mastering this format requires a combination of critical thinking, language proficiency, and creativity. By selecting pertinent problems, formulating realistic solutions, and providing comprehensive explanations, you can ...
PDF Problems and Solutions essays
Procedure: introduce the focus of the lesson: Academic Writing Task 2 - Problems and Solutions essays. elicit environmental problems in general or show the class some pictures related to overfishing and elicit the topic. give students a copy of Worksheet 1 and draw attention to the essay question. elicit keywords from the question to identify ...
Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Topics & Sample Questions
Problem Solution Essay IELTS: Key Points to Remember. Some of the main points to remember while attempting the problem solution essay questions in IELTS are: You have only 40 minutes to complete the essay writing task, and you have to write a minimum of 250 words. Use linking words, collocations, and phrases to ensure a flow in the essay.
IELTS Task 2 Problem and Solution Topics 2024 2024
Check your IELTS essays right now! The list of Task 2 Problem and Solution topics that were added by IELTS student in 2024. These Problem and Solution questions could be repeated from previous months. Keep in mind that the provided Problem and Solution questions are not predictions. The collection of Problem and Solution questions is updated ...
Problem and Solution IELTS Essay Topics: A List of Common Essay Topics
Problem Solution Essay IELTS. Problem-solution essays are among the most important IELTS Writing Task 2 topics on the academic paper. While being so common, a lot of students are not doing well on these topics. This article will focus on some of the more common errors and then take you stepwise to answer certain questions. Common Mistakes in ...
Opinion
Michael Lowe, a professor of psychology at Drexel University who has studied hunger for 40 years, told me the drugs are "an artificial solution to an artificial problem."
4 Common Types of Team Conflict
Summary. Managers spend 20% of their time on average managing team conflict. Over the past three decades, the authors have studied thousands of team conflicts around the world and have identified ...

Addressing Challenges: A Guide to Problem and Solution Essay Topics

120 Problem Solution Essay Topics List

Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics

Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas

Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas

Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay

Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics

Economic Problems to Write About

Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays

Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics

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Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas

Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay

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Table of Contents

What is a problem-solution essay?

How to structure the problem-solving essay?

How to write the introduction of a problem-solving essay?

Introduction element: Hook of a problem-solving essay

Sample hook

Introduction element: Background brief of a problem-solving essay

Sample background brief

Introduction element: The thesis statement of a problem-solving essay

Sample thesis statement

Introduction element: Outline of a problem-solving essay