Problem solution essay: the best strategies and hacks

Updated 14 December 2025

Written by Meredith Anderson

Table of contents
  • What exactly is a problem solution essay?
    • Where are these essays usually used?
    • Essential peculiarities
  • How to Knock Out a Problem-Solution Essay: a guide & a few examples
    • Introduction:
    • Problem analysis:
    • Solution proposal:
    • Counterargument addressing:
    • Conclusion:
  • How to make your text stand out: dos and don’ts
    • Dos:
    • Don’ts:
  • Final thoughts

how to write problem solution essay

In today’s world, where things are moving at breakneck speed, it’s crucial to identify and tackle the big issues head-on and get them right. Problem solution papers are the way to approach these issues in a methodical manner and come up with sensible strategies to resolve them. Whether you’re a student looking to improve your grades or someone who just wants to make a difference, being able to write a problem solution essay is an incredibly useful skill. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of these papers and give you the lowdown on how to produce a piece of writing that really makes an impact.

What exactly is a problem solution essay?

Before we look at the ins and outs of these papers, let’s define what problem and solution actually mean in this context. Broadly speaking, this term refers to a type of academic writing that sets out to find a specific problem and then suggests one or more ways to fix it. Similar to an engineering essay, explication essay, or any other academic work, it typically has a structured organization and covers the following aspects:

  • Giving a clear overview of the problem and filling in any historical background;
  • Really digging into the root causes of the issue and what the effects are;
  • Providing evidence to back up the analysis you’ve done;
  • Looking at the various ways to tackle the problem;
  • Bringing all of your proposed solutions together and weighing up their potential effectiveness.

Where are these essays usually used?

This type of essay is commonly found in academic settings, particularly in subjects like Social Sciences, Economics, Public Policy, and Environmental Studies. They are also frequently assigned as homework in high school and college courses. You may also encounter different problem solution essay topics in standardized tests like the SAT, IELTS, and GRE.

Essential peculiarities

Understanding the unique features of a problem solution paper is key to effectively tackling this genre of writing. They include:

  • Focus on a specific problem: These essays center around a clearly defined issue that requires attention and action. This feature makes them different from DBQ format papers.
  • Solutions in Action: Unlike other kinds of writing that might just break down the issue, a problem solution essay calls on the writer to come up with real-world ways to fix the problem they’ve identified.
  • Sort of Follows the Rules: It’s typically written in a problem-solution essay structure, though, which starts with figuring out the problem, moves on to saying how to fix it, and backs it all up with evidence and a bit of analysis.
  • Persuading People: At the heart of this kind of writing is a persuasive argument that needs to convince readers how important the problem is and that your proposed solutions will actually work.
  • Getting People to Do Something: This kind of writing is all about motivating change – whether that means a change of heart, or an actual policy shift at a higher level. So the solutions you propose should be things that people can actually do, and not just pie-in-the-sky ideas.

How to Knock Out a Problem-Solution Essay: a guide & a few examples

Writing a paper like this one needs a clear plan of attack to tackle a problem and come up with solutions that actually might work. Let’s break it down into a detailed outline and include some examples to give you a better idea of what we’re talking about.

Introduction:

Example: “The issue of homelessness continues to plague many urban areas worldwide.”

  • Provide context to help readers understand the significance of the problem. You can do it using the following approaches:
    a) Provide a true-life story illustrating the issue.
    b) Share your personal experience.
    c) Present a scenario highlighting the urgency of the issue.
    d) Use statistics to depict the severity.
    e) Offer a detailed explanation supported by facts.
    f) Explore the problem’s history.
    g) Use a frame story to introduce and resolve the issue.
    h) Paint a vivid picture with sensory details.
    i) Reference media to exemplify the problem’s significance.

Example: “With the rising cost of living and insufficient affordable housing options, homelessness has become a pressing concern in cities across the globe.”

Problem analysis:

  • When thinking about how to start a problem solution essay, you should understand it’s also crucial to identify the root causes contributing to the problem.

Example: “Factors such as unemployment, lack of affordable housing, and mental health issues contribute to the cycle of homelessness.”

  • Discuss the widespread effects of the problem on individuals and communities.

Example: “Homelessness not only affects individuals’ quality of life but also strains social services and exacerbates urban poverty.”

Solution proposal:

  • Present practical and feasible solutions. Clarify them thoroughly, detailing how they address the problem. If you need help when formulating them, you may contact a professional writing service. EduBirdie will assist if you write my lab report or create other academic papers of any difficulty.

Example: “Implementing housing-first initiatives, which prioritize providing stable housing to homeless individuals, has shown promising results in reducing homelessness rates.”

  • Explain how the proposed ideas can be implemented and sustained. Provide specifics on implementation, including responsible parties and funding sources. Support your strategy’s effectiveness with evidence such as studies, past successes, expert opinions, statistics, or logical reasoning.

Example: “Collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders is essential to fund and support housing-first programs.”

Counterargument addressing:

  • Anticipate potential objections to your suggestions and provide rebuttals. You may refer to other books and publications that present opposing viewpoints.

Example: “Some may argue that providing free housing to homeless individuals is financially unsustainable. However, studies have shown that the cost savings from reduced emergency room visits and incarceration rates outweigh the initial investment in housing-first programs.”

Conclusion:

  • Summarize the key points discussed in the text, including the problem, causes, and ideas for overcoming challenges. You can find detailed information on how to make a conclusion in academic papers in our article about what is a descriptive essay.

Example: “In conclusion, addressing homelessness requires comprehensive strategies that prioritize housing stability and support services.”

  • Encourage readers to take action or consider the implications of your suggestions. The most effective ways to do this are:
    a) Outlining the desired outcome.
    b) Depicting the positive changes expected from adopting your plan.
    c) Using the frame story’s conclusion to underscore your plan’s efficacy.
    d) Illustrating the successful implementation and impact of your strategies with a real-life example.
    e) Supporting your argument with compelling statistics, facts, or expert testimony.

Example: “It’s crucial that we work together to implement evidence-based solutions and create a society where everyone can access safe and affordable housing.”

By following this detailed problem solution essay outline, you can craft thorough and persuasive writing that effectively analyzes an issue and offers effective solutions.

How to make your text stand out: dos and don’ts

If you feel confused about completing an essay or search for information on using ibid correctly in this text, discover some engineering assignment help tips to help you make it effective and powerful.

Dos:

  • Understand your readers to persuade them:

When pondering how to start a solution paragraph, it’s crucial to understand and connect with your audience. While it’s tempting to focus on rallying supporters, the most effective persuasion often targets undecided or neutral people. To persuade effectively, understand your audience and find common ground. Identify their beliefs, aim to influence them positively, and recognize shared values. In your argument, appeal to common needs such as financial security, health, and personal development.

  • Structure your essay effectively:

Structure your text in a clear and organized manner, with a coherent introduction, body paragraphs that develop your argument, and a conclusion that summarizes your key points and reiterates the significance of your ideas. A well-structured essay enhances readability and comprehension.

  • Use appropriate tone and perspective: 

Choose your tone carefully. Connecting with your readers effectively should be logical, reasonable, engaging, and persuasive. While aiming to persuade, consider using the second person point of view (“we” or “you”) for impact.

  • Offer innovative and creative solutions:

While practicality is important, don’t hesitate to offer innovative and creative suggestions in your problem solution essay example. Thinking outside the box can lead to fresh insights and ideas that have the potential to make a significant impact. Be open to exploring unconventional approaches if they are supported by evidence and reasoning.

  • Reflect on your readers’ reaction:

Considering your audience’s response is crucial. You should address an audience capable of implementing your ideas. Reflect on how you can sway the reader with the authority to act on your recommendations rather than solely targeting individuals who may already share your views but cannot effect change.

  • Use persuasive language and logical reasoning:

If you know what is a diagnostic essay, you understand that persuasive language and logical reasoning are crucial in any academic research. In a problem-solving essay, you must convince readers of the validity of your argument. Clearly articulate the cause-and-effect relationships between the issues and how you propose handling them. Use persuasive techniques such as appeals to emotion and logic to engage your audience.

Don’ts:

  • Refrain from oversimplifying the problem or proposed solutions:

Avoid oversimplifying the issue or your suggestions, as complex issues often require nuanced analysis and versatile solutions. Acknowledge the complexities involved and strive for depth and thoroughness in your analysis.

  • Avoid proposing ideas without sufficient evidence or research:

Don’t offer solutions without sufficient evidence or research to support their effectiveness. Base your recommendations on sound evidence and reasoning, and avoid making unsubstantiated claims or assumptions.

  • Don’t ignore potential objections or counterarguments:

Don’t ignore potential objections or counterarguments to your suggestions. Addressing opposing viewpoints demonstrates intellectual honesty and strengthens the credibility of your argument.

  • Avoid using overly complex language or jargon:

While it’s important to follow the proper problem solution essay format and demonstrate your command of the subject matter, avoid using overly complex language or technical jargon that may confuse or alienate your audience. Aim for clarity and accessibility in your writing.

  • Don’t stray from the main focus of the essay:

Stay focused on the main problem and proposed solutions throughout your text. Avoid tangents or unrelated topics that detract from the central argument and undermine the coherence of your essay.

  • Avoid presenting biased or one-sided arguments:

Present a balanced and objective analysis of the issue and your strategies, avoiding bias or one-sided arguments. Consider multiple perspectives and present evidence fairly to ensure a comprehensive and nuanced discussion.

  • Don’t neglect to revise and edit your essay:

Take your time polishing your document carefully before submission. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, grammar, and spelling to ensure your text is well-thought-out and professional. Revision is an essential step in the writing process and can significantly improve the quality of your final product. If you need professional assistance, you can always pay for essay writing and get valuable recommendations for your academic skill development.

Final thoughts

Understanding how to write a problem and solution essay gives learners the power to analyze complex issues and provide effective solutions. With our guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a proficient problem-solver through writing.

When crafting these papers, having the right support is crucial. EduBirdie is your best helper in creating high-quality academic writing and we’ll do all to exceed your expectations. With our expert assistance, learning the particularities of this genre becomes more manageable, ensuring your problem solution essay template is well-written and impactful in addressing real-world challenges. Trust EduBirdie to be your ally in making a difference through your writing.

Meredith Anderson
Meredith Anderson

Meredith, a dedicated editor at EduBirdie, specializes in academic writing. Her keen eye for grammar and structure ensures flawless papers, while her insightful feedback helps students improve their writing skills and achieve higher grades.

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