How to Structure a Problem and Solution Essay for IELTS with model answer grade 9

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, the problem and solution essay asks you to explain a particular issue, discuss its causes, and suggest practical solutions. The goal is to demonstrate your ability to clearly organize ideas, explain problems, and propose solutions.

Below is a complete guide to structuring this type of essay, along with a sample question and a model answer. I'll explain paragraph by paragraph and sentence by sentence what to include in each part of the essay.

NOTE - A problem and solution essay for IELTS differs from a cause and solution essay because it focuses on the negative effects or issues of a situation rather than its underlying causes.

How to Structure a Problem and Solution Essay for IELTS

In a problem and solution essay, your task is to:

1. Describe the problems or negative impacts related to a given issue.

2. Propose specific solutions to address those problems.

Sample IELTS Question:

In many developing countries, there is a problem with professionals leaving their countries for better opportunities abroad. What are the problems caused by this, and what solutions can you suggest to deal with this situation?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You have 40 minutes to complete this task.

Essay Structure:

Your essay should have the following structure:

Introduction Paragraph

1. Introduction Sentence

2. Outline Statement

Supporting Paragraph 1

1. Problem 1

2. Discussion or Example of Problem 1

3. Solution to Problem 1

4. Discussion or Example of Solution 1

Supporting Paragraph 2

1. Problem 2

2. Discussion or Example of Problem 2

3. Solution to Problem 2

4. Discussion or Example of Solution 2

Summary Paragraph

1. Summarize the Main Problems

2. Summarize the Main Solutions

NOTE - Although some online guides may recommend only having one problem and one solution, the question instructions are pluralised so you will lose points if you do not have at least two of each.

Now, I will outline step by step what you need to do in order to get a 7+ in problem and solution essays.

1. Introduction Paragraph

1. Introduction sentence:
The trend of skilled professionals migrating from developing countries to wealthier nations is increasingly problematic.

• Introduce the reader to the context of your essay by paraphrasing the question.

2. Outline statement:
This essay will discuss the main issues arising from this trend and propose solutions to address these challenges.

• An outline statement helps you organize your thoughts and ideas systematically. It ensures that your essay has a clear and logical structure.

2. Supporting Paragraph 1: Problem 1 & Solution 1

1. Problem 1:
One major issue is the shortage of skilled workers in crucial sectors like healthcare and education.

• Introduce the first problem.

2. Discussion or example of Problem 1:
For example, many African countries struggle with a lack of doctors as healthcare professionals seek better opportunities abroad, leading to inadequate healthcare services.

• Discuss or give a specific example of the first problem.

3. Solution to Problem 1:
A solution is for governments to enhance working conditions by offering competitive salaries and career development.

• Introduce your solution to problem 1. Please make sure it actually solves the first problem you have stated.

4. Discussion or example of Solution 1:
India, for instance, has improved its research and healthcare sectors, providing better pay and facilities, which has helped in retaining local talent.

• Discuss or give a specific example of the first solution.

3. Supporting Paragraph 2: Problem 2 & Solution 2

1. Problem 2:
Another problem is the decline in innovation and technological progress due to the emigration of top talent.

• Introduce the second problem.

2. Discussion or example of Problem 2:
When skilled engineers and scientists leave, it hampers a country’s ability to innovate and grow its technology sector. This is evident in many developing countries that face challenges in advancing their industries.

• Discuss or give a specific example of the second problem.

3. Solution to Problem 2:
To counter this, countries should implement "reverse brain drain" programs to encourage expatriates to return by offering incentives like tax breaks and research grants.

• Introduce your solution to problem 2. Please make sure it actually solves the first problem you have stated.

4. Discussion or example of Solution 2:
China has effectively used such programs to attract skilled professionals back, significantly boosting its technological development.

• Discuss or give a specific example of the second solution.

4. Summary Paragraph

1. Summarize the main problems:
In summary, brain drain results in a shortage of skilled workers and a slowdown in innovation in developing countries.

2. Summarize the main solutions:
Addressing these issues requires improving local working conditions and creating incentives for expatriates to return.

Final Model Essay - grade 9:

The trend of skilled professionals migrating from developing countries to wealthier nations is increasingly problematic. This essay will discuss the main issues arising from this trend and propose solutions to address these challenges.

One major issue is the shortage of skilled workers in crucial sectors like healthcare and education. For example, many African countries struggle with a lack of doctors as healthcare professionals seek better opportunities abroad, leading to inadequate healthcare services. One viable solution is for governments to enhance working conditions by offering competitive salaries and career development. India, for instance, has improved its research and healthcare sectors, providing better pay and facilities, which has helped in retaining local talent.

Another problem is the decline in innovation and technological progress due to the emigration of top talent. When skilled engineers and scientists leave, it hampers a country’s ability to innovate and grow its technology sector. This is evident in many developing countries that face challenges in advancing their industries. To counter this, countries should implement "reverse brain drain" programs to encourage expatriates to return by offering incentives like tax breaks and research grants. China has effectively used such programs to attract skilled professionals back, significantly boosting its technological development.

In summary, brain drain results in a shortage of skilled workers and a slowdown in innovation in developing countries. Addressing these issues requires improving local working conditions and creating incentives for expatriates to return.