A problem-and-solution question asks you to identify causes or problems and propose realistic solutions. The examiner wants each problem matched to a specific, plausible solution, not vague generalities. Keep the scope tight: two well-developed problem-solution pairs beat four shallow ones. The prompts below all follow this pattern.
The one rule
Match every problem to its own solution. Two developed pairs beat four vague ones.
On test day
It's one of the recognised Task 2 formats, so it's fair game on test day — but you can't reliably predict which one you'll be given. Treat every format as likely and practise across all of them rather than betting on a single type.
Templates
Learn the shape, not a script. A reliable structure for problem & solution questions saves planning time, but a memorised essay bolted onto the wrong prompt is penalised. Adapt the structure to the exact question in front of you.
Marking
Against the four official IELTS Writing criteria — task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Getting the format right mainly protects your task response score; the other three come down to your language.
Practice volume
Enough to make the format automatic, then stop drilling it in isolation. Once you can structure a problem & solution response without thinking, your time is better spent on the language criteria that actually move your band.
More Task 2 types
Attempt any problem & solution question in the exam workspace — 40 minutes on the clock, then a band for all four criteria in about 60 seconds. Starts with a 3-day free trial.
“Tropical deforestation in countries like Brazil and Indonesia continues at an alarming rate. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“Many countries are raising the retirement age because people are living longer. What problems does a rising retirement age cause, and what measures can governments take to address these problems?”
“In many parts of the world, women are still underrepresented in senior management and political leadership positions. Why does this problem persist, and what can be done about it?”
“In many workplaces, older employees now report to younger managers. What problems does this create, and what can be done?”
“Many adults in developed countries do not get enough sleep. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“Antibiotic resistance is becoming a serious global threat. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”
“Many people find it impossible to disconnect from their devices, even on holiday. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“In many countries, the gap between rich and poor is growing. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“Many cities are growing so large that they face serious infrastructure problems. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”
“In modern cities, many people feel isolated despite being surrounded by others. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“Sedentary lifestyles are leading to a rise in serious diseases. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“Many fish stocks around the world are collapsing because of overfishing. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”
“Many manufacturing jobs are disappearing because of automation. What are the consequences for society, and what can be done?”
“The rapid replacement of electronic devices creates huge amounts of e-waste. What are the causes, and what can be done?”
“The world's growing population is putting pressure on natural resources. What are the main causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”
“Many regions face severe water shortages. What are the main causes, and what can be done about it?”