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PROBLEM SOLUTION ESSAY TOPICS: HOW TO BECOME AN EXPERT IN IT

The Problem-Solution Essay

Problem solution essays define a problem and then propose a solution. In order to choose a topic, you need to have a specific problem in mind.

Here’s a few steps that can help you narrow down your topic:

• Choose a Field of Inquiry
• Find a Problem
• Propose a Solution

Research Problems

The world is full of problems—problems in society, problems in politics, problems in science, problems in the art world. Pick a general area that interests you. If none of those larger fields interests you, then start closer to home. Look at these general areas of your life:

• Home
• School
• Sports
• Clubs
• Work

Find a Problems

Once you have a general area, you can start to brainstorm problems in that area. There are a few ways to go about it. You can research some common problems in the area by asking yourself the following questions:

• Is this problem relevant?
• Is this problem controversial?
• Are people debating solutions to this problem?
• Has anyone offered solutions to this problem?

Similarly you can start formulating problems of your own by asking yourself questions about your own experience.

• What problems have I encountered at work/home/school?
• What are common problems people encounter?

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, pick 2-5 topics that interest you. Finally, ask yourself what problem interests you the most.

Propose a Solution

Your topic suggested a problem. Now your thesis should suggest a solution to the problem you’ve presented. You could offer one solution or you could offer a multi-part solution. Either way, it’s important to formulate a solution before you start writing your essay. If you can’t find a solution to the problem you presented, and if you can’t say why that solution is better than all the other possible solutions, then you might consider choosing a different topic.

Here are some sample topics to get you thinking:

• What can be done to prevent bullying?
• What can be done to help those who have been bullied?
• How can we reduce poverty in developing nations?
• How can governments prevent poaching?
• How can we reduce the national debt?
• How can we increase access to healthcare?
• How can we make the American population more secure?
• How do we help those who suffer from addiction?
• How can we mitigate the effects of climate change?