IELTS Writing · Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 Problem and Solution Essay: causes, problems and solutions

This essay asks you to identify problems or causes and to propose solutions. Prompts vary: 'What problems does this cause and what can be done?' or 'What are the causes and what are the solutions?'. It tests whether you answer both parts and whether your solutions are specific and clearly connected to the problems.

About Writing practice

Format

Task 2 of Writing: about 40 minutes, a minimum of 250 words, and worth twice as much as Task 1.
The question has two parts, such as problems and solutions or causes and solutions. Both parts must be answered, with roughly equal weight.
The four criteria are equally weighted. Task Response checks that each part of the question is answered and developed.
Typed on computer with a live word count. Fewer than 250 words is penalised; about 260 to 300 words is realistic.
A standard structure is an introduction, a paragraph on problems or causes, a paragraph on solutions and a conclusion.

Strategy

Read the question and mark what is required: problems, causes, solutions, or a combination. 'Causes' and 'problems' are different, and you must answer the one that is asked.
Brainstorm two main problems or causes. Choose ones that are different from each other and that you can match with a solution.
For each problem, think of a specific solution and who would carry it out: a government, schools, employers or individuals. 'Governments could tax sugary drinks' is more useful than 'We should solve this problem'.
Write an introduction paraphrasing the topic and saying what you will discuss: 'This essay will outline two consequences of ageing populations and suggest measures to tackle them.'
Write a problem paragraph with a topic sentence, an explanation and an example for each problem. Be specific about the effect and who is affected.
Write a solution paragraph that begins by showing the link: 'One way to reduce this pressure would be...'. Explain how the solution works and what result you expect.
Write a short conclusion that summarises the main problems and solutions, and ends with a realistic judgement about whether they would work.
Check that each solution responds to a problem you have named, and not just a general improvement.

Common traps

Writing solutions that do not match the problems. A solution about education is weak against a problem of cost.
Giving vague solutions such as 'the government should do something'. The examiner wants a specific measure.
Writing a much longer paragraph on problems than on solutions, or the other way round.
Confusing causes with effects. If the question asks for causes, an essay about the effects has not answered it.
Proposing unrealistic solutions with no explanation, such as banning something and ignoring the consequences.

Practise it inside a real Writing section

Practice on PrepFreely is always a complete section, so you meet this question type in the same place and proportion as on test day. Random sections never repeat until you've done them all. Every answer is explained.

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FAQ

Do I need to give my opinion?

Only if the question asks for it. Usually it does not, but a short judgement in the conclusion is acceptable.

What if the question asks for 'causes and solutions'?

Then the first body paragraph is about causes, not effects. Match the first part exactly.

How many problems and solutions should I include?

Two of each is typical. A third can be added in a sentence.

Should every solution match a problem?

Yes. Matching shows you have thought it through and gives your essay structure.

Can my solutions be about individuals as well as governments?

Yes. Name who will act, because specific actors make solutions more convincing.

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