Essay Type Guide & Samples
IELTS Problem & Solution Essays
Problem and Solution essays require you to analyze a specific issue, identify its core causes (or problems), and outline practical, realistic solutions. Every solution you propose must directly address a corresponding cause you introduced earlier.
Band 9 Model Essays (4)
100% 4-Paragraph FormatBand 9.04 Paragraphs • ~290 words
Modern children are suffering from the diseases that were once considered to only be meant for adults. Obesity is a major disease prevalent among children. What are its causes, and what solutions can be offered?
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~292 words
People naturally resist making changes in their lives. What kinds of problems can this cause? What solutions can you suggest?
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~304 words
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 are the possible solutions?
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Band 9.04 Paragraphs • ~294 words
More and more people in developing countries are purchasing cars for the first time. What problems does this cause? What do you think are some possible solutions?
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4-Paragraph Structure Formula
1. Introduction
- Sentence 1: Paraphrase prompt (acknowledge the issue in contemporary society).
- Sentence 2: Thesis statement (outline that targeted interventions can mitigate the issue).
2. Body Paragraph 1 (Causes)
- Topic Sentence: Introduce the primary causes.
- Explanation: Break down the mechanisms of each cause.
- Example: Illustrate with a concrete example.
3. Body Paragraph 2 (Solutions)
- Topic Sentence: State that the issues can be mitigated by specific measures.
- Solution 1 & 2: Propose solutions that directly solve the causes above.
- Example: Show how these solutions succeed.
4. Conclusion
- Sentence 1: Recap (summarize root causes).
- Sentence 2: Summary of solutions (re-state key interventions).
Examiner Key Advice
Avoid vague, abstract solutions like "raising awareness". Be concrete: specify government policy, educational programs, or economic regulations.
Verify that you have a 1-to-1 match between the problems you describe and the solutions you suggest.
Use action-oriented modal verbs like "must", "should", "ought to" to describe solutions.
Focus on root causes rather than surface symptoms.
Explore Related IELTS Resources
Sample Essays
- ›Air transport is increasingly used to export fruit and vegetables to countries where they cannot be grown or are out of season. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
- ›As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual wellbeing. What are the factors that contribute to job satisfaction? How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?
- ›At present, the media affects people’s lives significantly. What impact does this have on society? Is it a negative or positive development?