IELTS / TOEFL: How to Solve IELTS Writing Task 2 - Problem, Solution, Cause-Effect Essays

How to Solve: IELTS Writing Task 2 – Problem-Solution/Cause-Effect Essays

Introduction Scoring well in this task can help you gain 7-8 bands and improve your overall IELTS score. Mastering this task is a game-changer for achieving your desired score.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST You should already have:

1. The ability to paraphrase complex sentences.
2. Knowledge of the basic essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion).
3. Familiarity with vocabulary related to problem-solving and cause-effect relationships.

CORE CONTENT

Anatomy of the task

• The question will typically ask you to describe a problem, explain its causes, and propose a solution or discuss its effects.
• The question may include phrases like "What are the causes of...", "What are the effects of...", or "How can we solve...".
• Common traps include:
  • Failing to address the question directly.
  • Not providing enough detail or evidence to support your answer.

Step-by-step strategy

1. Read and understand the question: Identify the problem, causes, or effects being asked about.
2. Brainstorm ideas: Think of possible solutions or effects related to the problem.
3. Organize your ideas: Create an outline to structure your essay.
4. Write the introduction: Introduce the problem, provide background information, and state your thesis.
5. Write body paragraphs: Discuss the causes or effects of the problem, and propose a solution or discuss its implications.
6. Write the conclusion: Summarize your main points and reiterate your thesis.

Solved example

Question: What are the causes of traffic congestion in urban areas? What are the effects of traffic congestion on the environment and society? How can we solve this problem?

Model answer:

Traffic congestion is a major problem in urban areas, caused by a combination of factors such as rapid population growth, inadequate public transportation, and poor road infrastructure. The effects of traffic congestion on the environment and society are significant, including air pollution, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and decreased productivity. To solve this problem, we need to invest in public transportation, improve road infrastructure, and promote alternative modes of transportation such as cycling and walking.

Common Mistakes (3-5)

1. Mistake: Failing to address the question directly.
   • Why it happens: Students may get sidetracked by irrelevant information or fail to understand the question.
   • How to fix it: Read the question carefully, identify the key words, and make sure your answer addresses the question directly.
2. Mistake: Not providing enough detail or evidence to support your answer.
   • Why it happens: Students may run out of time or fail to research the topic thoroughly.
   • How to fix it: Make sure to provide specific examples and evidence to support your answer, and use time-management techniques to stay on track.
3. Mistake: Using overly complex vocabulary or sentence structures.
   • Why it happens: Students may try to show off their vocabulary or sentence structures, but end up confusing the reader.
   • How to fix it: Use clear and concise language, and focus on conveying your ideas effectively rather than showing off your vocabulary or sentence structures.
4. Mistake: Failing to use transitional phrases and linking words.
   • Why it happens: Students may forget to connect their ideas or paragraphs.
   • How to fix it: Use transitional phrases and linking words to connect your ideas and paragraphs, and make sure your essay flows smoothly.
5. Mistake: Not proofreading your essay.
   • Why it happens: Students may be in a rush or forget to check their work.
   • How to fix it: Always proofread your essay carefully, checking for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

CRAM SHEET (10 short one-liners)

1. Read the question carefully: Identify the key words and make sure your answer addresses the question directly.
2. Use specific examples and evidence: Support your answer with concrete examples and evidence.
3. Focus on clear and concise language: Use simple language to convey your ideas effectively.
4. Use transitional phrases and linking words: Connect your ideas and paragraphs smoothly.
5. Proofread your essay carefully: Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
6. Use time-management techniques: Stay on track and manage your time effectively.
7. Brainstorm ideas before writing: Think of possible solutions or effects related to the problem.
8. Organize your ideas before writing: Create an outline to structure your essay.
9. Use a clear and concise thesis statement: Introduce the problem and state your thesis clearly.
10. ⚠️ Don't forget to address the question directly: Make sure your answer addresses the question and provides a clear solution or discussion of effects.