Structure of problem solution essays
LANGUAGE & VOCABULARY FOR PROBLEM–SOLUTION ESSAYS
COMMON PROBLEM–SOLUTION TOPICS
IDENTIFYING PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS IN QUESTIONS
COHERENCE, LOGIC & EFFECTIVENESS
100

What two main parts does a problem–solution essay focus on?

Problems and solutions of the given topic

100

Give one phrase to introduce a problem(topic sentence)

 "One major issue is…"


100

What global issue is caused by the burning of fossil fuels?

Air pollution,  climate change 

100

What keyword in a question often shows it is a problem–solution essay?

Problems, solutions

100

What helps connect ideas between sentences?

Linking words 

200

What should you include after presenting a solution to show it is effective?

An explanation, reason,  result , or example.

200

Give one phrase to introduce a solution.

"A possible solution is…"


200

What is one common problem related to traffic in big cities?

Traffic jams 

200

If a question asks: “Why is obesity increasing, and what can be done?” — how many parts must you answer?

Two parts: causes + solutions.

200

Why should solutions be realistic?

Because the examiner should be persuaded if ideas make sense in real life 

300

In which paragraph do you usually describe the problem?

Body 1( mostly) or body 2 

300

What is a formal synonym for the word “problem”?

Issue,  challenge

300

What solution do many governments use to reduce plastic waste?

Banning plastic bags / recycling programs.

300

What should you avoid doing when suggesting solutions?

Giving unrealistic or ineffective solutions.

300

What technique makes your essay clearer when giving multiple problems?

Explaining all the problems in one paragraph 

400

What three things should your introduction contain in a problem–solution essay?

Background information, Paraphrased question, thesis statement,  

400

What linking word shows a result of a problem?

“As a result” / “Consequently.”

400

What education-related problem can be solved by giving online access to lessons?

Lack of educational resources / unequal access.

400

In a “cause–solution” essay, what is the difference between a “cause” and a “problem”?

A cause explains why the problem happens.

400

What do we call the explanation after giving a solution that shows how the solution works?

Justification 

500

When discussing several solutions, what is one strategy to make your essay more coherent?

Organize solutions from most effective to least effective (or group them logically).

500

What advanced phrase can you use instead of "solve the problem"?

“Address the issue” / “Tackle the challenge.”

500

Which economic issue can be addressed by giving tax support to small businesses?

Unemployment,  business decline

500

When a question says “measure to reduce,” what type of essay is it?

Problem–solution (solutions-focused).


500

What is one strategy to make your essay stronger when several solutions exist?

Evaluate them and choose the most effective one in the conclusion.