Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Essential Problem/Solution Essay Tips for 2025

Preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2 can feel intimidating, especially when you're faced with the ever-popular problem/solution essay. In 2025, IELTS candidates are not only expected to write clearly but also to demonstrate critical thinking and an ability to explain complex issues - all in about 40 minutes!

Whether your aim is a Band 7, 8, or 9, mastering the IELTS Writing Task 2 problem/solution essay is essential. This comprehensive guide will equip you with up-to-date strategies, show you how to identify problems and propose effective solutions, and help you use clear organization and cause-effect language. Plus, you'll see practical examples, model answers, and get tips for avoiding common mistakes many candidates make.

Let's dive in and set you up for IELTS essay writing success in 2025!

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What Is an IELTS Problem/Solution Essay?

An IELTS Writing Task 2 problem/solution essay asks you to analyze an issue, explain its causes (or problems), and suggest one or more solutions. You might see these tasks phrased as:

• "What are the causes of this problem and what solutions can you suggest?"
• "What issues arise from this situation, and how can they be tackled?"
• "Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken?"

Your job:
Provide a clear, well-structured essay that presents problems or causes, then offers logically linked solutions. Crucially, each solution should directly address the corresponding problem you have identified.

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Why Are Problem/Solution Essays So Important in 2025?

With increasing attention on global issues - from climate change and digital transformation to public health and urbanization - IELTS writing prompts in 2025 often focus on complex, real-world challenges.

Demonstrating your ability to:

• Clearly analyze and break down a problem
• Think critically about root causes
• Propose realistic and relevant solutions
• Use academic, coherent language

...is a core part of achieving a higher band score in Task 2.

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Step 1: Understand and Analyze the Essay Prompt

Before you start planning or writing, take a minute to carefully analyze the question:

1. Identify the Topic:
   What is the essay really about? Be specific (e.g., "traffic congestion in large cities" not just "transport").

2. Underline Key Words:
   Spot instructions in the question (e.g., "causes," "problems," "solutions," "measures").

3. Recognize Synonyms:
   The wording will often change, so look out for synonyms like "issues," "reasons," "tackled," and "addressed."

Example IELTS Problem/Solution Question

One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion. What do you think are the causes? What solutions can you suggest?

Analysis:

• Topic: Traffic congestion in large cities
• Asked to write about: Causes of the problem and suggest solutions

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Step 2: Plan Your Essay Before You Write

Planning helps keep your essay organized and focused, which saves time and improves your score for coherence and cohesion.

Recommended Structure

A high-scoring problem/solution essay typically follows this structure:

1. Introduction

   • Paraphrase the question
   • Outline the main problems and solutions you will discuss

2. Body Paragraph 1: Problems/Causes

   • Clearly state the main problem(s) or cause(s)
   • Explain and support with examples

3. Body Paragraph 2: Solutions

   • Propose specific solution(s) linked directly to each problem
   • Explain how your solutions address the problems and use cause-effect language

4. Conclusion

   • Summarize the key problems and solutions (do not add new ideas)

Tip:
Don't be tempted to list too many problems and solutions. Focus on 1-2 strong problems with corresponding solutions, and develop these with explanations and examples.

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Step 3: Model Essay Structure

Here's how an effective IELTS problem/solution essay is typically organized:

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Step 4: How to Write Each Paragraph (With Examples)

Introduction

• Paraphrase the question: Show you understand the topic (use synonyms).
• Outline: Briefly mention which problems and solutions you'll discuss.

Example:

Question: One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion. What do you think are the causes? What solutions can you suggest?

Introduction:
These days, many metropolitan areas struggle with severe traffic jams. This essay will examine the main causes of urban traffic congestion and propose effective measures to alleviate this issue.

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Body Paragraph 1: State and Explain the Problems or Causes

• Topic Sentence: Clearly identify the problem/cause.
• Explain: Describe why it's a problem and expand using specifics.
• Example/Result: Give a concrete example or illustration.

Example:

A primary cause of heavy traffic is the growing number of private vehicles. As incomes rise, more families can afford to own one or more cars, making roads increasingly crowded, especially during peak commuting hours. In cities like Jakarta and Mumbai, for instance, rush hour traffic often doubles travel times and significantly reduces productivity.

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Body Paragraph 2: Propose and Develop Solutions

• Topic Sentence: State the main solution(s).
• Explain: Describe how this solution addresses the problem.
• Example: Support with real or hypothetical examples.

Example:

One effective solution is to improve and promote public transportation. By investing in reliable metro systems and frequent bus services, cities can encourage more people to leave their cars at home. For example, after the introduction of an efficient metro in Delhi, many commuters switched from driving to using public transport, helping to ease traffic congestion.

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Conclusion

• Summarize the problems and solutions you've discussed.
• Avoid introducing new ideas.

Example:

In conclusion, the increasing number of private vehicles is a major contributor to urban traffic congestion. However, by developing better public transport networks, cities can reduce traffic, making daily commutes faster and environments cleaner.

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Step 5: Using Cause-Effect Language in Your Essay

Effectively linking the problems and solutions is crucial. Here's how you can do it using cause-effect language:

Useful Cause-Effect Phrases

• As a result of...
• This leads to...
• Due to...
• Consequently...
• Therefore...
• This problem can be solved by...
• If [solution], then [effect/result]...

Example Sentences

• Public transport is often unreliable, which leads to more people choosing to drive.
• If governments invest in cycling infrastructure, this would encourage more environmentally friendly commuting.
• Increasing car ownership is the main reason why congestion has worsened in recent years.

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Step 6: Linking Problems and Solutions Directly

A high-band essay ensures every solution is clearly linked to a stated problem. Here's how:

Incorrect (common mistake):
"Many people own cars. Governments should build more parks."

Correct:
"Many people own cars, resulting in traffic congestion. To tackle this, governments should invest in efficient public transport, encouraging people to use alternatives to driving."

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Step 7: Practice Question and Model Answer

Sample IELTS Problem/Solution Essay Question (2025 Trend)

In recent years, many people are experiencing stress at work, leading to mental health problems. What are the causes of this trend, and how can workplaces address it?

Model Answer:

Today, workplace stress has become a widespread issue, causing numerous mental health challenges for employees. This essay will discuss the underlying causes of job-related stress and suggest practical solutions for companies to address this concern.

The main cause of increased stress among employees is excessive workload and unrealistic expectations. Many companies demand long working hours and constant availability, leaving workers with little time to rest or recover. For instance, in some technology firms, staff are expected to respond to emails during weekends, making it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

To combat this, employers should implement policies that promote regular breaks and discourage after-hours communication. By limiting non-essential emails outside working hours and encouraging flexible working schedules, organizations can reduce employee stress. For example, several major companies have introduced "email curfews" and have reported higher employee satisfaction as a result.

In conclusion, while demanding work environments cause significant stress, companies can address this by fostering a healthy balance between work and personal life through mindful policies.

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Step 8: Common IELTS Problem/Solution Essay Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Listing too many problems/solutions, not developing them
   • Solution: Choose the most significant one or two, and explain them with details and examples.
2. Problems and solutions are unrelated
   • Solution: Make sure each solution directly addresses a problem you mentioned.
3. Vague ideas
   • Solution: Be specific. Instead of "improve transport," say "increase bus frequency in residential areas."
4. Unbalanced essay (writing mostly about the problem or solution only)
   • Solution: Develop both sections equally.
5. No explanations or examples
   • Solution: For each main point, explain why/how, and provide a specific example (real or believable).
6. No clear paragraphing
   • Solution: Use clear body paragraphs with topic sentences for each problem/solution.
7. Ignoring the latest IELTS trends
   • Solution: Prepare for newer topics (e.g., digital well-being, remote work) by practicing essays on recent exam themes.

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Step 9: Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Trends in 2025

IELTS essay prompts in 2025 frequently feature:

• Technology in society: AI, remote work, digital well-being
• Environmental issues: Sustainability, climate change, renewable energy
• Public health: Mental health trends, pandemic lessons
• Education: Online learning, digital divides
• Cultural issues: Globalization, cross-cultural integration

Staying updated and practicing with current themes will help you feel prepared for test day.

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Step 10: Band 9 Model Answer - Problem/Solution Essay Example

Question:
Plastic pollution is becoming a serious problem worldwide. What are the causes of this issue? What measures can be taken to overcome it?

Band 9 Sample Answer:
Plastic waste represents a significant global challenge, threatening marine life and affecting human health. This essay will outline the main causes of plastic pollution and suggest viable solutions to mitigate its impact.

One primary cause is the widespread use of single-use plastics, such as bottles and packaging. These items are convenient and low-cost, leading to excessive consumption and improper disposal. For example, studies show that millions of plastic bottles are discarded daily, many of which end up in oceans or landfills.

To address this, governments should enforce strict regulations on plastic production and promote alternatives like biodegradable packaging. Introducing taxes on single-use plastics, as done in Ireland, has dramatically reduced usage. Additionally, public education campaigns can raise awareness about the environmental consequences of plastic waste, encouraging individuals to adopt reusable products.

In summary, although plastic pollution is largely caused by the overuse of disposable items, effective government policies and public education can substantially alleviate the problem.

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Step 11: How Can I Practice and Improve My Problem/Solution Essays?

One of the most efficient ways to make progress is through practice and targeted feedback.

1. Regularly practice writing essays on current topics.
2. Evaluate your work: Check if your problems and solutions are clearly linked and well explained.
3. Use feedback tools: Platforms like Essay Tutor allow you to get instant grammar checks, phrase improvements, and receive essay evaluations specific to IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE standards.
4. Learn from high-band sample essays: Compare your attempts with band 7, 8, or 9 model answers.
5. Develop a bank of academic phrases: Especially cause-effect structures and linking language (see above).

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Step 12: Exam Day Strategy for Writing Task 2

• Spend 2-5 minutes planning (identify problems and their solutions, jot down key points)
• Paraphrase the question in your introduction
• Use one body paragraph for problems/causes, the other for solutions
• Use linking words throughout (however, as a result, therefore, for example, consequently)
• Support every main idea with explanation and example
• Keep an eye on the clock - allow time to review and correct mistakes

Checklist Before Submitting:

• Did I answer every part of the question?
• Are problems and solutions logically connected?
• Is there a clear introduction, two main paragraphs, and a conclusion?
• Is my language academic, clear, and free of informal expressions?

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Frequently Asked Questions for IELTS Problem/Solution Essays

How many problems and solutions should I write about?

Focus on one or two well-developed problems and solutions. Quality and depth are more important than quantity.

Can I use personal pronouns like "I" or "my"?

You can occasionally use "I" when giving an opinion, but keep the tone academic.

What is the minimum and ideal essay length?

Aim for 260-290 words, but never drop below 250 words.

Can I include personal examples?

Yes - as long as they are relevant and believable.

Should I write a conclusion?

Absolutely. Always finish with a conclusion, even if it's brief.

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Key Tips & Takeaways for 2025 IELTS Problem/Solution Essays

• Always answer every part of the question clearly
• Fully develop your problems and solutions with explanations and examples
• Directly connect solutions to the problems identified
• Use cause-effect language fluently
• Stay current with trends in IELTS essay topics
• Practice, get feedback, and keep improving

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Ready to Master IELTS Writing Task 2? Start Practicing with Essay Tutor!

With the right strategies, a little daily practice, and useful feedback, you'll be well prepared to write high-scoring problem/solution essays for IELT, TOEFL, and PTE.

Try Essay Tutor today:
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Feel confident and ready for your test day - you CAN master IELTS Writing Task 2 in 2025!