Task 2BeginnerTarget: Band 5.5–6.0

Problem & Solution Template

A clear, logical structure that presents the problems first, followed directly by practical solutions.

Paragraph Structure

Introduction

Nowadays, Topic is a big problem. This essay will talk about the reasons for this issue and give some solutions.

State the problem clearly and tell the examiner what the essay will do.

Body Paragraph 1 (Problems)

One reason for this problem is Reason 1. For example, Example 1. Another reason is Reason 2. This means that Effect.

List two simple reasons why the problem exists. Include a basic example.

Body Paragraph 2 (Solutions)

To solve this, the government should Solution 1. Also, people can Solution 2. If we do this, the problem will get smaller.

Provide two simple, practical solutions that directly address the problems from the first paragraph.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Topic is a serious issue, but we can fix it if the government and people take these steps.

Summarize the problem and reiterate that the solutions will work.

Useful Phrases

Nowadays, Topic is a big problem.
This essay will talk about...
One reason for this problem is...
Another reason is...
To solve this, the government should...
Also, people can...
If we do this, the problem will get smaller.
In conclusion...

Sample Answer

Nowadays, traffic in big cities is a big problem. This essay will talk about the reasons for this issue and give some solutions. One reason for this problem is that there are too many cars. For example, in cities like London, every family has two or three cars. Another reason is that public transport is not good enough. Trains and buses are often late or very expensive. This means that people prefer to drive their own cars to work. To solve this, the government should make public transport cheaper and faster. If buses are free, more people will use them. Also, people can share cars with their friends or use bicycles. If we do this, there will be fewer cars on the road and the problem will get smaller. In conclusion, traffic is a serious issue in cities, but we can fix it if the government improves public transport and people change how they travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Providing mismatched solutions

If BP1 says the problem is 'laziness', but BP2's solution is 'building more hospitals', your ideas are disconnected.

Fix: Ensure that every solution in BP2 directly fixes a problem you mentioned in BP1.

Writing a 'laundry list'

Listing 5 problems and 5 solutions in short clauses limits your grammar and depth scores.

Fix: Focus on maximum TWO problems and TWO solutions, fully explaining each.

Ready to practice this structure?

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Problem & Solution (Beginner) - IELTS Writing Template