The Problem & Solution Essay
A problem-solution essay sets out the problems of a situation and offers solutions. It has four possible components:
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| Situation | the background (often given in the prompt or introduction) |
| Problem | the difficulty and why it matters |
| Solution | proposed ways to solve it |
| Evaluation | judging the solutions (often in the conclusion, or omitted) |
Because the situation is often in the prompt and the evaluation can be brief, problem-solution essays are more common than full situation-problem-solution-evaluation essays. Like cause-and-effect essays, they use a block structure (all problems, then all solutions) or a chain structure (each problem followed by its solution).
Model essay — obesity and fitness:
(Situation) Processed foods and car dependence have raised obesity and lowered fitness. (Problem) Obesity and poor fitness reduce life expectancy, raising the risk of diabetes and heart disease. (Solution 1) Individuals can change their diet and walk or cycle instead of driving. (Solution 2) Governments can add healthy-lifestyle classes to the curriculum and build cycle lanes or raise vehicle taxes. (Evaluation) Individual changes likely have the most impact, but a combined effort with government is essential.
Tip: State why the problem matters (its consequences) before giving solutions — this shows the reader the solutions are needed.
Common mistake: Listing solutions that don't match the problems you raised. Each solution should clearly answer a stated problem.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. The four components are situation, problem, solution, and ___ .
2. The ___ is often already given in the essay prompt.
3. Pairing each problem with its solution is the ___ structure.
4. The evaluation usually appears in the ___ .
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — the set of circumstances at a particular time
“The situation is often described in the introduction.”
Meaning — a means of solving a problem
“Each solution should answer a stated problem.”
Meaning — a judgement of the value or effectiveness of something
“The evaluation weighs how good the solutions are.”
Meaning — the condition of being very overweight
“Obesity reduces life expectancy.”
Meaning — a plan or action to solve a problem
“Governments can launch initiatives to improve fitness.”