What’s a problem-solving essay?

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A problem solving essay identifies a problem and discusses possible solutions. It requires research and has an introduction, thesis, body, and conclusion. The thesis argues for a solution and the body describes proposed solutions and their outcomes. The conclusion includes a call to action.

A problem solving essay is an essay that describes a problem and discusses possible solutions to the problem. This type of essay can be assigned in a high school or college composition class and generally requires some research before the writing process can begin. The main thrust of a problem-solving essay is usually either an argument for a specific solution to a problem, or a strong case for the urgent need to solve a problem. Like most essays, your problem solving essay should contain an introduction, a thesis, a body, and a conclusion.

The first step in writing a problem solving essay is to identify the problem that will be discussed. It can be helpful to brainstorm possible essay topics and create a list of bulleted ideas that could be discussed for each topic. The best problem-solving arguments are interesting and can be viewed from multiple perspectives, but they’re also not so broad that it’s impossible to imagine a solution to the problem.

An opening to a problem solving essay should describe the problem and provide relevant background information. The problem should be clearly defined and the causes of the problem identified, if possible. The extent of the problem, the effects of the problem and the possible consequences of the problem remaining unresolved must also be described. Key terms that need to be defined should also be included in the opening, as well as any pertinent historical information that would help the reader better understand the issue.

Depending on the problem being discussed, the thesis of a problem solving essay may argue for the urgent need to solve the problem, or it may advocate a single solution to the problem. Most commonly, it will argue for a single solution. The thesis should generally be only one sentence long and should clearly identify the main point of the essay. It will usually be placed in the opening paragraph, although in some cases the thesis may be reserved for the latter part of the essay where it will be unveiled after a thorough discussion of the problem and possible solutions.

The body of a problem solving essay should fully describe the proposed solutions to the problem and discuss the possible outcomes of each solution. The advantages or disadvantages of each solution should be included, as well as the feasibility of the proposed solutions. If attempts have already been made to fix the problem, those should also be described. If the essay will argue for a single solution to the problem, the body of the article should logically lead to the conclusion that the proposed solution is the best solution available. In such cases, it is important not only to describe the solution, but also to describe how the solution can or should be implemented.

The conclusion of a problem solving essay should contain a call to action, claiming that the reader participates in the proposed solution to the problem or is involved in finding a solution to the problem to be solved. The future consequences of the problem can be used as leverage for the call to action. It may also be helpful to briefly rephrase the problem and describe the effects of leaving the problem unsolved. The best problem solving essays will create a sense of urgency and get the reader interested in solving the problem.




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