Problem-Solution Essay Traps in IELTS Writing
Task 2 · Problem-solution · May 2026
Direct answer
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.
How problem-solution prompts are worded
What are the problems? Often paired with what can be done
Unequal weight Long problem section, one-line solutions
Mismatch Traffic solutions for a health essay
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
Usually problems first—read the prompt order. If it asks for causes then solutions, follow that sequence.
Two developed solutions often beat five vague ones. Each must link to a stated problem.
No—problem-solution requires actionable fixes; cause-effect explains why something happens without necessarily proposing remedies.
Check whether your solutions actually fix the problems you named.
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