About this IELTS Writing Template
Memorising complete essays is a poor strategy for the IELTS exam. Instead, learning the underlying framework of a high-scoring response allows you to adapt to any prompt. This Problem & Solution template for Task 2 demonstrates exactly how to structure your ideas, connect your paragraphs logically, and deploy appropriate vocabulary to achieve a Band 5.5–6.0. Use the paragraph-by-paragraph plan below as a skeleton for your next practice draft.
Paragraph-by-Paragraph Plan
Detailed sentence formulas
Introduction
Begin your introduction by presenting the topic in a broad context. Use a hook to engage the reader, such as a startling fact or a rhetorical question. Then, narrow down to the specific problem you will discuss. Clearly state the purpose of the essay, indicating that you will explore the causes of the issue and propose viable solutions.
Body Paragraph 1 (Problems)
Start with a topic sentence that introduces the first problem. Elaborate on this problem by explaining its causes and effects. Use specific examples to illustrate your point, ensuring they are relevant and clear. Transition smoothly to the second problem, maintaining coherence. Again, provide detailed explanations and examples.
Body Paragraph 2 (Solutions)
Begin with a topic sentence that introduces the solutions. For each problem discussed in the first paragraph, propose a corresponding solution. Explain how these solutions can effectively address the issues. Use conditional sentences to show potential outcomes if the solutions are implemented. Ensure that the solutions are practical and realistic.
Conclusion
Summarize the main points discussed in the essay, reiterating the seriousness of the problem and the effectiveness of the proposed solutions. End with a strong concluding statement that emphasizes the importance of taking action.
Full Sample Response
Written by an expert IELTS examiner
Nowadays, traffic congestion in major urban areas is a significant issue. This essay will discuss the underlying causes of this problem and propose viable solutions.
One primary cause of this dilemma is the excessive number of private vehicles. For instance, in metropolitan areas such as London, it is common for households to own multiple cars. Additionally, the inadequacy of public transportation systems exacerbates the issue. Trains and buses are frequently delayed or prohibitively expensive, leading individuals to prefer personal vehicles for commuting.
To address this issue, it is imperative that the government invests in making public transportation more affordable and efficient. For example, if buses were free or heavily subsidized, a greater number of people would opt for them. Furthermore, individuals can contribute by carpooling with colleagues or utilizing bicycles. Should these measures be implemented, it is likely that the volume of traffic will decrease significantly.
In summary, traffic congestion poses a serious challenge in urban environments, but it can be mitigated if the government enhances public transport systems and individuals alter their commuting habits.
Examiner Commentary
Why this response scores highly
The sample essay effectively meets the target band requirements across all four assessment criteria. In terms of Task Response, the essay clearly identifies the problem of traffic congestion and provides relevant solutions, demonstrating a clear understanding of the task. The essay maintains coherence and cohesion through logical progression of ideas and effective use of transitional phrases, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the argument.
Lexical Resource is demonstrated through the use of a range of vocabulary appropriate to the topic, with precise word choices such as 'excessive', 'inadequacy', and 'mitigated'. The essay also showcases Grammatical Range and Accuracy by employing a variety of sentence structures, including complex and compound sentences, without significant errors.
Overall, the essay is well-structured and addresses the task requirements effectively, making it suitable for the target band of 5.5–6.0. To further enhance the essay, the writer could incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary and complex grammatical structures, as well as address potential counterarguments to provide a more balanced perspective.
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