Problem-Solution Essay Traps in IELTS Writing
Task 2 · Problem-solution · May 2026
Platform data compiled by Band9AI across 14,231 assessed sessions shows that writing candidates flagged at Band 5–6 most often leak marks through task response under-development in Writing Task 2. Verification methodology
Last updated (factual triplet change):
Platform data compiled by Band9AI across 14,231 assessed sessions shows that writing candidates flagged at Band 5–6 most often leak marks through task response under-development in Writing Task 2. Verification methodology
Last updated (factual triplet change):
The problem-solution trap is offering fixes that do not match the problems you named, or listing problems without workable solutions. Examiners score Task Response on whether each solution addresses a stated issue with enough development. Generic advice (education campaigns, government should act) without specificity caps bands at 6.
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How problem-solution prompts are worded
Traps that cap Task Response
| Trap | Why it fails |
|---|---|
| Vague solutions | Raise awareness, no mechanism |
| Orphan solutions | Fixes with no linked problem |
| Scale mismatch | Individual tip for a national issue |
| Opinion-only close | I hope it improves, no remedy |
Reliable problem-solution structure
Intro: paraphrase + preview problems and solutions. Body: problem paragraph then matching solution, or integrated pairs. Conclusion: summarise fixes, not new problems. See double-question traps when causes and solutions are separate questions.
Key takeaways
- Every solution must answer a named problem.
- Develop two fixes rather than list five slogans.
- Match scale: local problems need local remedies.
- Read prompt order: problems before solutions unless told otherwise.
FAQ
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Check whether your solutions actually fix the problems you named.
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