PROBLEM SOLUTION NOTES

Problem solution essay 2- Muet guide

Writing a problem- solution essay is an attempt to highlight a problem and to provide suggestions to overcome the problem. This type of essay informs and describes the occurrence of certain actions or events (problem). It also provides solutions to solve the problem (solution).

What is a problem? : It is an issue that many are concerned about. There is a

need to describe the reasons for the concern of this matter.

What is a solution? : It is an action that is carried out to solve the problem.

The solution provided is to fix the problem.

Structure of A Problem-Solution Essay

There are two methods to organize this essay:

• block method

• chain method

In the block method, all the problems are discussed in one block, which is made up of a few paragraphs, while the solutions are discussed in another block which is also made up of a few paragraphs. The two blocks are separated by a short paragraph that is placed between the two blocks.

Meanwhile in the chain method, the first problem and its solution are discussed in paragraph, followed by the second problem and its solution are discussed in the following paragraph.

WRITING A THESIS STATEMENT FOR PROBLEM-SOLUTION ESSAY

The thesis statement should appear in the introductory paragraph. Before writing your thesis statement, you must explain the problem. What is it and why does it need to be solved? Engage the reader and make them care about the problem. After that, state your thesis statement. In this type of essay, the thesis should outline the solution to the problem.

Here are some examples of thesis statements for problem-solution essays:

1. There are three ways to solve the pollution problem in the community which are education, stricter enforcement by the authorities, and improved recycling programmes.

2. Bullying in school is a serious problem, but it can be remedied through parent involvement, peer mediation programmes, and encouraging a community atmosphere.

3. The three most commonly proposed solutions to depleting energy sources are increasing the efficiency of appliances and vehicles, improving conservation efforts, and finding alternative resources.

USEFUL PHRASES AND EXPRESSIONS

Adopted from : Effective Text MUET (Malaysian University English Test) 800/1-800/4

-Third Edition, Albert Nathan, Cecilia Arul, Phoon Foon Ha and Kok Ming Wai- Ilmu Bakti