Problem-Solution Essay Structure

posted by Andy Preisler 01 Nov 2016
Table of contents:

Problem-solution essays are a common requirement for high school and college students. The definition of a problem-solution essay can be derived from the name itself. It is an essay that identifies a problem and discusses a solution or solutions accordingly. Its primary thrust is arguing for a specific solution to a problem or convincing the readers to address the problem as soon as possible.

Writing a problem-solution essay starts with an introduction, as you would start any other type of essay. The introduction identifies the problem. You can start by painting an image of the problem or the issue at hand to make it more compelling for readers to continue reading. This is what most essay helpers call the lead or the hook, which is used to grab readers’ attention. The introduction is also the part where the writer appeals to the emotions of the readers by stating who are affected by the problem and what the consequences will be if this problem is not addressed.

The next part of the problem-solution essay is the elaboration of the problem. This is where you present the issue at hand from a broader perspective down to the details. Including its historical background can significantly add value to the essay – on how it started and how it developed into what it is currently. These factual claims should always be substantiated by credible sources either through footnotes or endnotes. Proper citation should always be observed to maintain a trustworthy tone.

Once the problem is completely laid out on the table, the writer should then present a concrete solution or solutions to it. The point of the whole essay is to convince the readers that this particular solution or solutions are their best options. To do this, it must be logical, feasible, and substantiated by pieces of evidence. There are two ways to present the problem and its corresponding solution or solutions, which will be discussed in the subsequent portion.

The problem-solution essay, like any other essay, too, should end with a conclusion. The conclusion should restate the problem and a summary of all the arguments into one whole solution directly addressing the problem. Some students turn to essay conclusion maker to be sure in results. This part should also contain a call to action that encourages the readers to take part in the proposed solution or to look for alternative solutions. To convince readers to act on the matter, the writer can also include possible consequences if the problem is not resolved in the quickest possible time. After all, a good problem-solution essay creates a sense of urgency on the part of the readers to address the problem identified.

As for the approach in writing your essay, there are two problem-solution essay structures you can use: either a block structure or a chain structure.

A block structure identifies and list all the problems first and then presents all of the solutions afterward. A block structure would look like this:

Introduction

Body

  1. Problem 1

  2. Problem 2

  3. Problem 3

  4. Solution 1

  5. Solution 2

  6. Solution 3

  7. Conclusion

On the other hand, a chain structure alternately identifies the problem and its corresponding solution. A chain structure would look like this:

  1. Introduction

  2. Body

    1. Problem 1

    2. Solution 1

    3. Problem 2

    4. Solution 2

    5. Problem 3

    6. Solution 3

Conclusion

Each problem-solution essay structure has its own merits. The writer can just choose which structure he is more comfortable using. A block structure is relatively clearer and simpler to use while the chain structure presents the solutions directly to the problems, which can be quite useful when introducing several problem-solution items. The number of items introduced can be a factor in selecting which structure a writer should use.

Transition Words for Essays and Papers

In writing your essay and weaving your problems and solutions together, you would need to use some transition words to improve the connections between sentences and paragraphs thereby giving the text a more logical organization and structure. They help carry a thought from one sentence to another, from one idea to another, or, as mentioned, from one sentence or paragraph to another.

In order to use transition words more effectively, the writer should know what they are and when to use it appropriately. If students have poor writing skills, they should ask for college essay help or request essay rewriter services. Experts know that the transition words like also, in addition, and as well as are used to add new information and show the agreement. The transition words like but, rather, and or are used when there is evidence to the contrary or to point out alternatives, which ultimately changes the line of reasoning. The transition phrases like in order to, in view of, and provided that are used when presenting specific conditions or intentions. Lastly, transition words like thus, hence, and accordingly are used to show the consequences or effects of a certain happening or event.

Ask for help with writing from a professional writer.
Order Problem-Solution Essay

 

Andy Preisler

Blog writer for GrabMyEssay

Andy Preisler

 

Hey there!

I’m Andy Preisler, and I’m super happy to be joining the blog team at GrabMyEssay.com!

While I hail from Fayetteville, Arkansas (I know, not the most progressive state!), I left the Southern life behind me many years ago when I went to college for my first degree. I’ve received it in University of Arkansas, Fayetteville and I’m really proud of this. Since then, I have studied in the U.S., and later on, continued my education in Loughborough University, UK, where I actually my second Bachelor’s Degree along the way.

With my perpetual studies (my parents wonder if it will ever stop), I have become a bit of an expert on college life – academic, social, and financial – and love sharing my experiences and my methods of “circumventing the system” with others.  I will be sharing all of these great tips and strategies with my readers, so stay tuned!

When I am not blogging or enrolling in some new course that interests me, I am backpacking through Europe and staying in hostels, working on my second novel (a riveting murder mystery), and pursuing my interest in music. Yes, I travel with my guitar, and you would be amazed at the amount of cash I can accumulate, just performing on the streets of European cities (they are so much more tolerant of vagabond musicians). 

My other passion is environmental. In my short 27 years of life on this planet, I have witnessed the extinction of species, the destruction of rain forests, and irreparable harm to our oceans. I contribute both time and money to several international environmental organizations, because we all must do our part to save Mother Earth.

But I digress! If you are interested in the “ins and outs” of college life, and want some great tales of navigating through the game of “degree attainment,” as well as tips for easing the pain of those pesky essay and paper assignments, follow my blog!

I would love to hear from you, to give you advice, and to lend a listening ear. You can contact me at [email protected] anytime! And follow my posts – you won’t be disappointed!

Try our service with 15% Discount for your first order!   Try our service with 15% Discount for your first order!   Try our service with 15% Discount for your first order!  

Order Now