Problems & Solutions Type Questions
With these types of questions, instead of discussing the causes of a problem, you need to discuss the problems related to a particular issue, and then suggest solutions. This is the easiest question however, make sure that you present solutions to the very problems you have discussed in the first main body paragraph.
These questions can be worded differently, for example:
1- What are the problems of …… and what could be the solutions?
2- …… has caused a lot of problems, what are they and what could be done?
3- The problem of … are many. Discuss them and give possible solutions.
EXAMPLE OF TASKS.
1- Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.
2- A lot of professionals like doctors and engineers are leaving their poor countries to settle down in developed countries. What are the problems? What can be done to control the situation?
3- Many countries do not show enough respect towards the elderly. What are the problems associated with this? List the possible solutions.
4- Average life expectancy is increasing in developed nations. What problems will it cause for individuals and society? Mention some steps that can be taken to reduce the impact of aging populations.
5- Stress has become a big problem in many countries across the globe. What are some of the elements in modern society that lead to stress? How can we mitigate stress?
6- Global warming is one of the grave problems that the world is encountering today. What are the causes of it and what measures can be taken to tackle the issue?
TIPS
1- The essay structure is divided into four parts for a problem-solution question – introduction, problem, solution, and conclusion. The introduction gives a complete overview of the essay. The first main body paragraph will have all the problems and the second main body paragraph will have all the solutions to the problem. The conclusion sums your opinion and gives a summary.
2- Focus on two things, problems and solutions. Ask yourself, what are the problems caused by the situation stated, and what are the measures or possible solutions to solve the problem.
3- Do not list the problems and solutions, simply state 2-3 problems and solutions, and explain your ideas about them.
4- Present problems and solutions that are directly related to the question. For example, if you are asked about the problem caused due to environmental degradation, you cannot write about problems caused by poor health.
5- Identify the keywords, and relate them with problems and solutions. For example, if the keyword is environmental degradation, then focus on the problems caused by environmental degradation.
6- You must be able to link the problems to the solutions while writing a problem solution. The problems might be right, but if the solutions do not relate to the problems, then your score will be affected in terms of subject matter. Write solutions that look realistic.
7- No new idea is presented in the conclusion.
8- All parts should be equally attempted so as to get a good score.
SAMPLE TASK.