Recognising Problem-Solution Questions
These questions typically say: What are the causes of this problem? What solutions can be suggested? or What problems does this cause and how can they be solved?
Variation A: Causes + Solutions (what causes X, how can it be solved?) Variation B: Problems + Solutions (what problems does X create, how can they be solved?) Read the question carefully — these require slightly different structures.
The Structure
Introduction
Paraphrase the situation and acknowledge the problem exists.
The rise of remote working has created significant challenges for both employers and employees. This essay will examine the main difficulties this trend causes and propose practical solutions.
Body Paragraph 1 — The Problems/Causes
Identify two or three specific problems with clear development.
Body Paragraph 2 — The Solutions
Match each solution to a specific problem raised in Paragraph 1.
Each solution should directly address a problem you named. Examiners check whether your solutions are relevant to the problems. A random solution that doesn’t connect to your stated problem scores low on Task Achievement.
Conclusion
Summarise the problems and restate that the proposed solutions can address them.
Language for Problem-Solution Essays
| Function | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Stating a problem | One significant problem is… / A major issue is… |
| Explaining the impact | This results in… / Consequently… / As a direct consequence… |
| Proposing solutions | One effective solution would be… / Governments could… |
| Expressing possibility | could / might / would / should |
| Explaining why it works | This would ensure that… / By doing this, X would… |
Solutions Must Be Specific
Vague (Band 5): The government should do something about pollution. Specific (Band 7): Governments should implement a carbon tax on industrial emissions, which would incentivise companies to invest in cleaner production methods.
Name WHO does WHAT and WHY it will work.
Using Modal Verbs for Solutions
Solutions use modal verbs because they are recommendations, not facts:
- Companies could implement flexible working policies.
- Schools should introduce financial literacy programmes.
- Governments might consider subsidising public transport.
Do not say “This WILL solve the problem.” Use “This would help to address…” Absolute certainty sounds naive and unacademic.