✍️ Mastering the Problem-Causes-Solution Essay for IELTS (A Friendly Guide)
Hey learners! 🙋♂️
If you’re preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2, chances are you’ve come across an essay type that asks you to discuss a problem, its causes, and then suggest solutions.
It’s called the Problem-Causes-Solution Essay—and while it may look tricky at first, I promise that with a bit of structure and practice, it’s not only manageable, but even fun to write! 😄
Let’s walk through it together—from the basics to the band 8+ level.
🚦 What Is a Problem-Causes-Solution Essay?
This essay type asks you to:
-
Talk about a problem in society or the world,
-
Explain the reasons behind it, and
-
Offer possible ways to solve it.
These questions usually begin with:
“What are the problems and what solutions can you suggest?”
or
“What are the causes of this issue and how can it be tackled?”
🧱 A Simple 4-Paragraph Structure
A clear structure makes everything easier! Here’s a go-to format you can follow:
1. Introduction
-
Paraphrase the question
-
Mention the problem briefly
-
Say you’ll discuss causes and solutions
2. Body Paragraph 1 – Causes
-
Describe the main causes of the problem
-
Use examples if you can
Mention one more reason
Explain/connect it with main idea
3. Body Paragraph 2 – Solutions
-
Suggest 1–2 realistic solutions
-
Explain how they solve the issue
Provide example
One more solution
4. Conclusion
-
Summarize key points
-
Give a closing thought (optional)
💬 Useful Vocabulary to Shine in the Exam
Here are some phrases that can give your essay a professional and polished tone:
Talking about Problems:
-
A growing concern is...
-
This issue has become widespread...
-
One major challenge is...
Explaining Causes:
-
This is largely due to...
-
A key contributing factor is...
-
This may stem from...
Suggesting Solutions:
-
One effective solution would be...
-
This problem could be solved by...
-
Authorities should consider...
✨ Let’s See an Example!
📝 Sample IELTS Question:
In many cities, traffic congestion is a major problem.
What are the causes of this, and what solutions can you suggest?
✅ Sample Essay (Shortened for Blog):
Introduction
Traffic jams are becoming a common issue in many urban areas. This blog explores why this happens and what we can do about it.
Causes
One big reason is the heavy dependence on personal cars. Public transport is often unreliable, which pushes people to drive. Also, poor city planning makes roads overcrowded.
Solutions
Governments can improve public transport so it becomes a better option than driving. Also, cities can introduce carpool programs and congestion charges to limit unnecessary traffic.
Conclusion
Traffic congestion is mainly caused by private car usage and weak infrastructure. But with the right changes, cities can move toward smoother roads and cleaner air.
🌟 Tips to Get Band 8 and Above
-
✅ Be clear and direct—Avoid vague ideas.
-
✅ Link your ideas—Use connectors like Therefore, Moreover, On the other hand...
-
✅ Stay balanced—Discuss both causes and solutions equally.
-
✅ Support with examples—Even simple examples make a difference.
🎯 Try It Yourself!
Here are a few practice questions. Choose one, write your essay, and review it using the structure above:
-
Many children today eat unhealthy food.
➤ What causes this? What can be done? -
Unemployment is rising in some countries.
➤ What are the reasons? What solutions can you suggest? -
Plastic pollution is harming the environment.
➤ Why is this happening? How can it be solved?
🙌 Final Words
Whether you’re aiming for a Band 6 or pushing toward an 8+, mastering this essay type gives you a big boost in IELTS Writing. Take it one step at a time, keep your ideas logical, and remember—your opinion matters when it's explained well!
Need more guidance or want feedback on your writing?
📩 Feel free to drop your essay in the comments or DM us on Instagram @myengvishacademy_2.0! I’d love to help.
Till then,
Keep learning, keep writing. ✍️💪
~ Vishal Modi