problem and solution research topics

Addressing Challenges: A Guide to Problem and Solution Essay Topics

Table of contents

• 1.1 Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics
• 1.2 Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas
• 1.3 Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas
• 1.4 Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay
• 1.5 Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics
• 1.6 Economic Problems to Write About
• 1.7 Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays
• 1.8 Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics
• 1.9 Transportation Problem Solution Topics
• 1.10 Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas
• 2 Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay
• 3 Closing Note

Navigating the complexities of real-world issues through the lens of academic inquiry, problem-and-solution essays serve as a dynamic educational tool. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? Problem and solution essays are crucial to academic writing, offering students an invaluable opportunity to analyze various situations and articulate effective solutions critically. These essays sharpen critical thinking and problem-solving skills and encourage a deep exploration of a multitude of contemporary issues. By tackling these essays, students gain the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives and develop insights into potential remedies.

This article promises to dive into an extensive array of topics for problem and solution essays, encompassing diverse areas and problems to write about, such as environmental issues, social challenges, healthcare dilemmas, and more.

120 Problem Solution Essay Topics List

With such a rich palette of issues, the next step in crafting an impactful essay becomes crucially important. Selecting an appropriate topic is key when tasked with writing a problem-solving essay. It’s essential to choose a subject that is not only relevant and engaging but also provides ample scope for in-depth research and thorough analysis. This careful selection allows for a detailed exploration of the issue and the formulation of effective solutions. To aid in this process, we have compiled an extensive list of 120 thought-provoking topics for problem-solution essays.

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Environmental Issues Problem-Solution Essay Topics

• Combating Climate Change: Strategies for Global Cooperation.
• Addressing Ocean Pollution: Cleaning Our Seas.
• Deforestation: Reforestation and Sustainable Practices.
• Urban Air Pollution: Cleaner Cities.
• Endangered Species: Conservation Efforts.
• Plastic Waste Management: Innovative Solutions.
• Sustainable Agriculture: Feeding the World Responsibly.
• Renewable Energy: Transition from Fossil Fuels.
• Water Scarcity: Effective Water Management.
• Eco-friendly Transportation: Reducing Carbon Footprint.

Social Problems Problem And Solution Essay Ideas

• Homelessness: Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions.
• Gender Inequality: Bridging the Gap in the Workplace.
• Racial Discrimination: Fostering Inclusivity.
• Bullying in Schools: Prevention Strategies.
• Elderly Care: Improving Senior Living.
• Child Abuse: Strengthening Child Protection Services.
• Poverty Alleviation: Economic Empowerment Programs.
• Substance Abuse: Effective Rehabilitation Approaches.
• Unemployment: Job Creation Strategies.
• Digital Divide: Bridging the Technological Gap.

Healthcare Challenges: Problem-Solving Essay Ideas

• Mental Health Stigma: Promoting Awareness and Acceptance.
• Obesity Epidemic: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes.
• Healthcare Accessibility: Universal Health Coverage.
• Pandemic Preparedness: Lessons from COVID-19.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Developing New Treatments.
• Chronic Diseases: Prevention and Management.
• Mental Health in the Workplace: Supporting Employees.
• Telemedicine: Bridging the Healthcare Gap.
• Health Education: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles.
• Drug Affordability: Policies for Cheaper Medications.

Technological Advancements Ideas for a Problem Solution Essay

• Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Digital Information.
• AI Ethics: Balancing Innovation and Privacy.
• Social Media Addiction: Finding Digital Balance.
• Technological Unemployment: Reskilling the Workforce.
• Online Privacy: Protecting Personal Data.
• E-waste Management: Sustainable Recycling Practices.
• Digital Literacy: Educating the Next Generation.
• Internet Censorship: Balancing Freedom and Security.
• Tech in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences.
• Future of Work: Adapting to Technological Changes.

Educational Concerns Problem Solution Paper Topics

• Student Loan Debt: Financial Aid and Repayment Options.
• Academic Pressure: Promoting a Balanced Education.
• Dropout Rates: Improving Student Engagement.
• Quality Education in Rural Areas: Bridging the Gap.
• Gender Disparity in STEM: Encouraging Female Participation.
• Teacher Burnout: Strategies for Support and Retention.
• Digital Divide in Education: Accessible Learning for All.
• Standardized Testing: Alternatives for Student Assessment.
• Special Needs Education: Inclusive Teaching Strategies.
• Lifelong Learning: Promoting Continuous Education.

Economic Problems to Write About

• Income Inequality: Fair Wage Policies.
• Global Trade: Promoting Ethical Practices.
• Sustainable Economic Growth: Eco-friendly Business Models.
• Financial Literacy: Educating the Public.
• Unemployment: Innovative Job Creation Strategies.
• Cryptocurrency: Regulation and Security.
• Global Poverty: Effective Aid Strategies.
• Economic Crises: Preventive Measures and Solutions.
• Gig Economy: Ensuring Worker Rights.
• Consumer Debt: Promoting Responsible Spending.

Global Challenges Topics for Problem Solution Essays

• International Conflict Resolution: Peacekeeping Strategies.
• Refugee Crisis: Humanitarian Aid and Integration.
• Global Hunger: Sustainable Solutions.
• Climate Change Migration: International Policies.
• Cultural Preservation: Protecting Heritage in a Globalized World.
• Human Trafficking: Global Efforts to Combat.
• Global Health: Eradicating Communicable Diseases.
• Water Crisis: International Cooperation for Water Security.
• Wildlife Trafficking: International Laws and Enforcement.
• Global Education: Ensuring Access for All.

Political and Governance Problem Solution Essay Topics

• Corruption: Transparency and Accountability Measures.
• Election Integrity: Ensuring Fair Democratic Processes.
• Political Polarization: Fostering Civil Discourse.
• Human Rights: Protecting Individual Freedoms.
• Press Freedom: Combating Censorship.
• Public Trust in Government: Building Confidence through Transparency.
• Policy Making: Involving Public Participation.
• International Relations: Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution.
• Government Surveillance: Balancing Security and Privacy.
• Political Activism: Encouraging Civic Engagement.

Transportation Problem Solution Topics

• Urban Traffic Congestion: Efficient Public Transport Solutions.
• Road Safety: Reducing Accidents and Fatalities.
• Sustainable Aviation: Eco-Friendly Air Travel.
• Maritime Pollution: Cleaner Shipping Practices.
• Electric Vehicles: Infrastructure and Adoption.
• Public Transportation Accessibility: Inclusive Design.
• Bicycle-Friendly Cities: Promoting Cycling Infrastructure.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Ethical and Practical Considerations.
• Urban Planning: Integrating Efficient Transportation Systems.
• Transportation in Rural Areas: Improving Connectivity.

Cultural and Ethical Dilemmas

• Cultural Appropriation: Promoting Cultural Sensitivity.
• Ethical Consumerism: Making Informed Choices.
• Media Bias: Promoting Objective Reporting.
• Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment and Welfare.
• Online Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Regulations.
• Genetic Engineering: Ethical Implications and Regulations.
• Work-Life Balance: Corporate Policies for Better Harmony.
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Ethical Considerations.
• Artificial Intelligence: Addressing Ethical Concerns.
• Cultural Preservation: Respecting and Protecting Heritage.

Easy Problem Solution Topics For an Essay

Selecting an easy topic for a problem-solving essay is a strategic process that can significantly streamline your writing phase. Which topic is specific enough for a good problem-and-solution essay? To identify such a topic, begin by reflecting on common challenges faced in everyday life, whether they pertain to personal, community, or global issues. An easy topic often lies in an area where you have personal experience or interest, as this familiarity can provide a wealth of insights and ready solutions. Additionally, consider issues with widespread impact yet are manageable in scope, ensuring that your essay can propose realistic and achievable solutions. Researching current events and trends can also unveil relevant and engaging topics, yet not overly complex, making them ideal candidates for a concise and focused essay. Here are 20 easy problem and solution topics:

• Reducing Stress in College: Time Management Strategies.
• Healthy Eating on a Budget: Accessible Nutrition.
• Overcoming Procrastination: Effective Techniques.
• Managing Social Media Use: Finding a Healthy Balance.
• Improving Sleep Quality: Strategies for Better Rest.
• Balancing School and Work: Time Management Tips.
• Reducing Screen Time: Encouraging Outdoor Activities.
• Dealing with Bullying in Schools: Prevention and Intervention.
• Encouraging Physical Activity: Community Fitness Programs.
• Improving Reading Habits: Encouraging Literary Engagement.
• Enhancing Community Safety: Neighborhood Watch Programs.
• Reducing Littering: Effective Waste Management.
• Coping with Anxiety: Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques.
• Promoting Environmental Awareness: Educational Campaigns.
• Addressing Teen Smoking: Prevention and Education.
• Encouraging Volunteerism: Community Involvement Programs.
• Reducing Carbon Footprint: Sustainable Lifestyle Changes.
• Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking: Confidence Building.
• Enhancing Road Safety: Awareness and Enforcement.
• Promoting Cultural Understanding: Exchange Programs.

By aligning your selection with areas of personal insight or concern, you ease the research and writing process and infuse your essay with authenticity and enthusiasm.

Closing Note

In conclusion, problems and solutions examples offer a platform to address a plethora of issues, ranging from personal challenges to global concerns. The problem-solution paper topics listed in this article provide diverse issues to explore, offering opportunities for critical thinking and solution-focused writing. Whether you choose a complex global issue or a simpler, more relatable topic, the key is to present a well-researched problem and propose feasible and effective solutions. It is a problem-solving solution essay topic guide for college students guide. Thus, young people develop their writing skills through these essays and contribute their voices to ongoing discussions about important matters. Remember, every problem has a solution, and your essay could be the first step toward finding it.

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130 best problem solution essay topics.

It is quite ironic that the first problem you encounter in problem solution essays is choosing the best problem solution essay topics!

However, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. All you have to do is look for problem solution essay topics with viable solutions, and you should genuinely care about the problem. If you still have trouble finding good problem and solution topics, you can look for examples of problem and solution essay topics.

We have provided more than enough examples for you with over 100 problem solution essay topics contained in this article. Ready to find a solution to your problem solution essay topics? Let’s get started!

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

Problem solution essay topics for middle school, problem solution essay topics about animals, environment problem solution essay topics, health problem solution essay topics, political problem solution essay topics, problem solution gun control topics, funny problem solution essay topics, more problem solution essay topics.

Problem solution essays are one of the most common essays for college students. Students in college face a unique set of problems from other students. It is essential to write topics for problem solution essay on issues that you can relate to or have experienced.

Therefore, problem solution essays written by college students are quite different from all others. These essays deal with issues common among college students.

Still at a loss as to the problem solution topics to choose as a college student? Here are some examples that would point you in the right direction. Note that you don’t have to use them verbatim. These can serve as samples or inspiration.

• How can college students effectively balance out personal needs and academics? Is it possible to still have a social life?
• Large lecture halls can make it more challenging to learn and hear lecturers. How can campuses work on solving this problem?
• Most students have to work and study to pay for their education. However, work often takes away the time for learning. How can a student find a solution to this problem?
• Going away from home can be pretty hard, and many students battle with homesickness for a time. Proffer solutions to this problem.
• How can a student cut costs on decorating a dorm room or apartment?
• Lots of colleges match students as roommates. This practice often causes some problems between people with different personalities and interests. What can be done to make the adjustment period more comfortable for each roommate?
• Every student knows that the cafeteria is rarely the best place to get the best food. How can students help change this situation, though?
• How can parents help their children and wards without intruding on their privacy and taking away their independence?
• What should colleges do to have a more diverse number of students in their schools?
• How can colleges help their students relieve stress?
• Do parents need to know the grades of their children in college?
• How can colleges encourage students to participate more actively in sports and politics?
• How do college students decide on their major?
• What happens to a long-distance relationship when you are in college?
• How can a college student persuade his parents to allow him to be independent?
• What is the best way to handle issues with roommates?
• How can a college student stop procrastination?
• What degrees are the most marketable for college students?
• How do college students handle noisy or dirty roommates or neighbors?
• What can you do if you find out that your friend is suicidal?

These problems are issues that college students frequently encounter. Therefore, you only have to seek actionable solutions to the question, outline them and have a good problem solution paper.

These sample topics can also be converted into problem solution speech topics. If you were to give a speech, all these questions would make a good thesis for problem solution speech topics college students would love. You have the advantage of capturing your audience’s attention right from the onset as they can relate to the problems.

Not everyone is in college, though. For instance, if you are in middle school, the type of problem solution essay that would appeal to your audience and find interesting is quite different. Therefore, we have highlighted more problem solution paper topics to help everyone in different situations.

Middle School is often a challenging time for most people. It is a time when teenagers feel like adults yet are still children in the real sense. This problem, coupled with many other issues, makes for a quite impressive problem solution essay topics list.

• What can a school do to help children who have behavior issues that stem from their home?
• How can society help and encourage children with autism and other developmental disorders instead of blaming their parents?
• What can parents and teachers do to help young female teenagers who are unrealistically trying to fit into the images they see on social media?
• Should middle school students look for a job before they gain admission into college?
• How can parents teach middle school students financial management before they get to college?
• How can parents and teachers combat the adverse effects of cell phones and other electronic devices on students?
• How can therapy dogs be controlled in a classroom such that it does not become a distraction?
• How can students do tests without experience undue stress and anxiety?
• How can society help children who are talented but have no means to further their education?
• How can school fit more creative subjects into pupils’ schedules to help them broaden their mental capacities?

Beyond school topics for problem solution essays, there are also other general topics that anyone who wants to write problem solution persuasive speech topics can use. We have highlighted these topics under the different sections below.

If you love animals, then you would care about what happens to them. A problem solution essay can help you affect the changes that you want to see concerning animals. Here are a few interesting topics that you might want to try your hands on first.

• What is the solution to the animals that are overpopulating particular habitats because human activity has chased their natural predators?
• How can we prevent people from disturbing the natural habitat of endangered animals living in parks?
• How can we solve the problem of plastics destroying the natural ecosystem in the ocean?
• What can people do to combat the global climate change issues that would affect several animals’ habitats?
• How do we deter people who adopt pets on a whim and decide they don’t want these animals anymore?
• How we protect endangered species like snakes, which might live on people’s properties, without causing problems for the people or the animals?
• How can we prevent poaching with the rise in demand for animal flesh and parts worldwide?
• How do we protect migratory birds from obstacles like tall buildings and wind turbines?
• How can we deal with irresponsible dog breeders who run dog mills?
• How can farmers provide free-range eggs at a more affordable price?

You might have thought of some of these issues at one point or the other if you love animals in any capacity. Therefore, it would be relatively easy for you to write a problem solution paper on any of these topics if necessary.

Anything that affects the environment affects everyone in it. Therefore, problem solution essay topics environment-related are a common one for people. You can try your hands on any one of them. Who knows? Your solution might be what the world needs.

Some sample environment problem solution essays that you attempt are:

• How can we encourage more countries to work on climate change and take it more seriously?
• What can everyday people do to help cleanse the waterways from pollution?
• How can we encourage farming communities to convert to wind or solar farming?
• What can we do the stop the extinction of monarch butterflies?
• How can we reduce air pollution in major world cities?
• What steps should members of societies take to stop the rising acidity of the oceans?
• What can be done about the increasing world population as it affects the environment?
• GMOs lead to more food production but could cause biodiversity challenges. What could be done to solve the problem?
• How can we reduce food wastage, especially in larger cities?
• How can we reduce deforestation and encourage tree planting?

Find more environmental science topics on our blog.

One significant aspect of life that people face challenges is in their health. This fact makes this aspect a good source for problem solution essay topics. Some of the health problem questions that these essays seek solutions to include:

• How can we encourage parents to vaccinate their children at an early age to prevent dangerous illnesses?
• How can people develop the habit of regular exercise?
• What can parents do to help their obese children?
• How can we get more people to sign up for a health insurance plan in the United States?
• How can the stigma surrounding mental health issues be reduced in our societies?
• How can we combat increasing health challenges like asthma caused by air pollution?
• How can we strongly encourage people to stop taking tobacco?
• How do we reduce death rates caused by accidental gun discharge?
• What can we do to encourage people to eat fresher, more balanced meals?
• How do we ensure people seek primary health care when they fall ill? How do we make primary health care accessible to all?

Politics is an issue that concerns everyone, whether we like it or not. One way or the other, your actions and inactions would determine the state of your society and country.

There are no doubts that there are several problems in the political system all over the world today. These problems serve as the basis of political problem cause solution speech topics.

These examples that we have provided below will help you write on any of these political problem solution essay topics.

• How do we encourage people to vote more?
• Should the age limit of voting reduce as more children mature at younger ages?
• How do we enforce laws that would help our societies?
• Is there a way that we can eradicate racism, nepotism, and tribalism from the society
• Is there a way to increase the number of literate people in society?
• How do we balance the free speech right with the right not to insult or abuse?
• How can we solve the problem of terrorism?
• How can mass job creation reach everyone and reduce the poverty rate?
• Should politicians have some form of control over social media? How can we create a free and fair media space without any political interference?
• How should we deal with illegal immigration issues?

Gun control has been a big issue for years. Different people have their opinions on the solution to the problems that guns cause in society. Here are a few on the topic:

• How can we help victims of gun violence?
• Is there any way to reduce the rate of gun violence?
• Do we prosecute the sellers or buyers of illegal guns?
• Should civilians be allowed to carry guns? What justifiable reasons can a civilian give for owning a gun?
• How can we make our communities safer without guns?

These problem solution gun control topics can help you explore the issues surrounding gun use control.

Whether you want to or not, some problems would make you laugh. We have highlighted a few funny problem solution essay topics for you.

• Funny cat videos reduce stress during finals.
• Programmable electric locks might help you stop eating at night.
• Photoshop solves Instagram users’ low self-esteem issues.
• Would 3D Printing solve the dorm cooking problems?
• Lecturers can serve free coffee to keep students awake during class.
• Could recorders be used to solve the problem of sleeping in class?
• Can autocorrect solve the problem of texting language in essays?
• Glowing pillows could solve issues in long-distance relationships
• iPads as a replacement for textbooks would make the class more fun and engaging
• Alarm clocks should run from student’s reach before they turn them off to prevent oversleeping.

These topics contain funny solutions to real-life issues. While you can write a paper on these funny topics to entertain yourself, you might need more problem solution essay topics.

• How can we stop social media bullying?
• How can you help a depressed person?
• What can we do to domineering and manipulating people?
• How do you leave a bad relationship?
• How can we stop or limit steroid use in sports?
• Should student-athletes get paid?
• How can you learn a sport that you have never played before?
• How can you boost attendance at a sporting event?
• Should parents or teachers push children to engage in sports?
• How do homeschooled children prepare for college?
• Should schools offer more technical courses to prepare children for the changing world?
• What should parents or guardians do when a student gets pregnant?
• How can we encourage more people to adopt children?
• How can parents teach the value of honesty?
• What is the best way to discipline a child?
• How can we prevent traffic violations?
• How do we prevent drunk driving?
• Is there a way to increase driver education in the country?
• What is the best way to find a new location you have never visited?
• What can traffic law changes make driving easier?
• How can we make people use more public transport?
• What is the best way to train a student as a driver?
• How can we combat driving and texting?
• Should parents impose their religious beliefs on their children?
• How can we help families who have someone with mental health challenges?
• How can parents help their children have a confident body image?
• How should parents help with homework?
• In what way should technology be used in the classroom?
• Should teachers or students be allowed to carry licensed guns into the school premises?
• What should be the standard for dress codes in schools?
• Should students who prefer online studies in high school be allowed to use that medium?
• How can schools retain their outstanding teachers?
• Should schools promote more physical education?
• Should there be a general core curriculum for all schools?
• Is it ideal to give every child an iPad or laptop in school?
• Has digital technology caused challenges for the education sector?
• Should foreign language be made compulsory for every student?
• How should teachers treat cheaters when caught?
• Would a nationalized test prove the standard of schools?
• How can we help children flunking class?
• What can make gifted and talented programs more effective?
• How much should sports players earn?
• Should women ask men out on dates?
• How can you move out of a friend zone?
• What makes for a healthy relationship?

You can change these topics into local problem solution essay topics by specifying a state or location. If you are looking for easy problem solution essay topics or problem solution proposal essay topics, these topics will meet your needs. All you have to do is choose appropriate problem solution essay topics or contact a paper writer and get more help.

• Dissertation
• PowerPoint Presentation
• Book Report/Review
• Research Proposal
• Math Problems
• Proofreading
• Movie Review
• Cover Letter Writing
• Personal Statement
• Nursing Paper
• Argumentative Essay
• Research Paper
• Discussion Board Post

Problem Solution Essay Topics

Table of Contents

Academic writing usually pursues a broad goal – identifying how well the student embraced the learning material and how accurately they can apply theory to practical events, phenomena, and processes. That’s exactly what you can do in a problem-solution essay, which is meant to test your skill of problem identification and scholarly evidence evaluation. You will need to find an issue in your area of study and scan the literature to find appropriate solutions to it. As a result, you should display a variety of analytical skills in this writing piece, proving to your professor that you can determine a problem, dissect it to realize its causes, and evaluate external evidence to find effective remedies to that issue. 

So, you should understand how to write analysis paper first and then proceed to the problem-solution type of academic writing. 

Problem Solution Topics for College Students 

Problems and solutions vary by discipline and academic level. High school students typically face the need to resolve some basic-level problems, while college students face the need to dive deeper into the essence of things and find non-obvious solutions to complex issues. Here are a couple of suggestions to inspire your writing effort. 

• The dark side of the body positivity movement. 
• Driving under the influence: incidence rates, causes, and solutions to the problem. 
• Ways of addressing police brutality and abuse of power.
• Solutions to the problem of racial violence in the USA. 
• Solutions to the ever-present problem of white-collar crime in European corporations. 
• Effective remedies to cybercrime and hacker attacks. 
• Solutions to the problem of body shaming. 
• Ways of improving privacy in the increasingly digitalized society. 
• Solutions to loosen the intimate relationship between poverty and criminality. 
• Solutions to concealed domestic violence. 
• Ways to encourage more families to adopt children from orphanages. 
• Reasons for wrongful sentencing and solutions to this problem. 
• Long-term remedies to the unemployment issue. 
• Ways to effectively promote the development of CMEs in the developing states. 
• Tech-savvy solutions to the problem of increasing waste and improper waste management in cities. 
• Solutions to the post-COVID-19 decrease in tourism industry’s popularity. 
• Workable solutions to the looming hyperinflation danger. 
• Ways to promote cultural diversity in the modern workplace. 
• Solutions to the harmful impact of perfect body images promoted on social media. 
• Addressing the increasing consumerism in modern society. 
• Effective solutions to help people exit abusive relationships. 
• Rising ageism and ways to address it in society and in the workplace. 
• Effective approaches to cultural exchange promotion. 
• Working solutions for promoting support for the elderly at the community level. 
• Reducing military tensions and risks across the globe via diplomatic means. 
• Efficient methods for curbing the global human trafficking industry. 
• How can humanity stop child labor practices in developing countries? 
• Using legislative means to limit the political candidates’ use of taxpayer money for their campaign financing. 
• Improving the quality of disabled individuals’ lives. 
• Solutions to the rising costs of education. 
• Problems that immigrants come across during assimilation and solutions to these challenges. 
• Possible solutions to the mounting substance abuse rates across the globe. 

University-Level Problem Solution Topic List 

Undergraduate writing about problems and their solutions is a distinct area of academic activity for which you should be sufficiently prepared. It engages students in a fascinating journey of problem identification, which is usually more complex than college-level writing. It would help to make sure that the problem is original – nobody has researched it in depth before. After that, you should construct genuinely new knowledge by analyzing the existing scholarly evidence, connecting the dots in theory, and finding brand-new solutions to the problem. 

The task may seem daunting at first, but it is highly rewarding as an independent scholarly effort in the end. Here are some suggestions for directions you can take in the process of working on such papers. 

• The magnitude of the STD problem in African countries and possible solutions to the STD spread. 
• Electricity-powered cars as a solution to the deteriorating air quality in North America. 
• Approaches to individual education on recycling practices. 
• Why is deforestation remaining at high levels?
• Workable solutions to reducing the volume of plastic waste disposal. 
• Landfill problem: an international comparison of the problem’s severity and regional approaches to addressing it. 
• School bullying: scope of the problem, causes, and solutions. 
• Effective educational techniques that may help resolve the problem of racial discrimination. 
• Workable methods for resource depletion minimization. 
• Is the problem of production process externalities acute in third-world countries? What can be done to curb it? 
• What can be done to reduce children’s exposure to illegal drugs? 
• Possible solutions to high divorce rates’ prevention. 
• Efficient approaches to reducing the number of school dropouts among students from low economic status families. 
• Educational techniques to ensure safe teenage driving.
• A variety of approaches to teen pregnancy reduction. 
• Best ways to help victims of home violence. 
• Effective methods of reintroducing ex-prisoners to society so that they integrate smoothly and don’t return to crime. 
• Effective approaches to curbing illegal immigration to the USA. 
• What can be done to make third-world countries safe for tourists? 
• How can humanity address illiteracy on a global level? 
• A variety of approaches to balancing free speech with individual protection against abuse and insults. 
• Workable techniques to help people transition to a healthy lifestyle. 
• Solutions to the problem of substance abuse. 
• Effective methods for seizing smoking. 
• Making large cities more pedestrian- and cycler-friendly. 
• The best solutions to the problem of joblessness in the tech era. 
• Effective methods of overcoming one’s limits in sports. 
• Solutions for harsh injury prevention in professional athletics. 
• How can students choose courses more effectively and avoid costly career changes early in their lives? 
• Possible solutions to dealing with a nasty roommate. 

Problem and Solution Ideas for all Study Levels and Subjects 

At times, you might only need to compose a short essay about a problem relevant to your field of study. Here are some topic ideas for various academic subjects that you can consider and choose a good, fresh idea for your homework task. 

• What can people do to help animals cope with the consequences of climate change and the loss of their natural habitats? 
• Financial fraud is flourishing today. How to make people more financially literate and protected against scams and criminals? 
• Working in a multinational company is a cultural challenge. How can a company help its employees integrate better? 
• Remote work is the new reality of the post-COVID world. What are the best solutions to communication hurdles in remote teams? 
• Pets are a great responsibility for people of all ages. What solutions can be found to reduce the number of abandoned pets on the streets? 
• Manufacturing gets costlier, and producers often resort to unethical cost-saving techniques that are reflected in product quality. What are the optimal solutions to maintaining the profit margin while at the same time keeping the manufacturing pipeline ethical? 
• Eating disorders are a growing global health concern. What are the possible solutions to this problem, and what causes should be addressed to minimize its scope? 
• Depression is a common occurrence among teenagers coming of age. What can parents do to help their children overcome depressive episodes with minimum harm to their mental and physical health? 
• Unethical advertisers often resort to people’s fears and prejudice to produce a convincing effect. What regulations should be implemented to guarantee rigorous consumer protection from such practices? 
• The elderly worldwide often suffer from loneliness and isolation, which causes their premature cognitive deterioration. What are the possible solutions to this problem on a community level? 
• Gender role education still follows many age-old stereotypes and prejudices that harm people at an adult age. How can these stereotypes be dropped across all educational levels to free the growing generation from their limiting nature? 
• Water is increasingly polluted with industrial waste across the globe. What effective regulations can be put in place to prevent the problem from aggravating? 
• Some countries are more successful in responding to climate change challenges, while others have failed in their efforts. How can successful states educate the less successful ones to ensure global progress toward curbing climate change? 
• Monarch butterflies, as well as hundreds of other species, are on the verge of extinction. How can we help preserve them? 
• People need transportation to move globally, but vehicles pollute the atmosphere. What are the alternative solutions to sustaining economic activities without so much pollution? 

What should I write my problem-solution essay about? 

As the name of this essay type suggests, you should compose a writing piece with an actual problem in focus. It’s vital to choose a serious topic that covers a really existing problem instead of making a problem out of nothing. Once you delineate the issue’s scope and magnitude with figures and significant stats, you may proceed to a range of possible solutions you’ve identified in scholarly literature. 

What is a problem-solution topic? 

There are tons of worthy topics for your problem-solution essays, and the choice primarily depends on your academic subject and the area of your interest. This way, you can work on the problem topical for your community, your research subject, or the broader science. If you’re a biologist, you may study the problems that flora and fauna may experience in your neighborhood and use academic evidence to suggest workable solutions. Otherwise, if you’re an MBA student, it may be a good idea to study a concrete managerial issue in a particular organization and propose data-backed solutions. 

What are some good topics for essays? 

Again, it’s hard to determine the topic’s quality without understanding your subject and area of research interest. However, in a nutshell, a good topic for problem-solution essays should be debatable and realistic. In other words, your identified problem should indeed exist and offer no self-obvious solutions.

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111 Problem Solving Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best problem solving topic ideas & essay examples, 🔎 interesting topics to write about problem solving, 👍 good essay topics on problem solving, 📌 most interesting problem solving topics to write about, 💡 simple & easy problem solving essay titles.

• Problem Solving Process in Mathematics Problem solving is the practice of working through the “facts” of a problem or situation to get a solution. The first principle is to “understand the problem”.
• Problem Solving, Decision Making and Creativity Both problem solving and decision-making processes require a clear identification of the situation. Creativity is a component of problem solving and decision-making. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Masdar City Project and Creative Problem Solving The purpose of this report is to identify, analyze, and propose solutions to a complex problem that Masdar is experiencing in the development of the Masdar City project.
• Experience in Problem Solving Logical or analytical thinking skills include, comparing, ordering, selecting and evaluating which provide an agenda for problem solving that helps to decide on the best alternative solution, identify the problem, gather formation, choose the cause […]
• Problem Solving: What Can We Do About Our Stress? Since we can decide on what to believe or think, we posses the aptitude on how we can respond to the exigent events and circumstances in our daily lives.
• Personal Problem Solving The person solving the problem must prioritize the issues surrounding the problem. The targeted evidence and information will determine the success of every problem solving process.
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Problem Solving and Group Decision Making In a group situation the quality of solutions is high because when a solution is tabled the other people in that group are given an opportunity to identify the errors in that solution and explain […]
• Kepner-Tregoe Technique Application to Problem Solving This case study highlights how the managers of the automobile giant continue to rely on the Kepner Tregoe technique to solve some of the problems associated with the implementation of the just-in-time technique in its […]
• Problem Solving Skills Training For instance, whenever a family the problem arises to a trained person, s/he could identify and evaluate the repercussion of the decisions made. First, the trainees will be able to differentiate between a problem and […]
• Problem Solving, Its Definition, Importance, Model The problem is considered to be solved if the characteristics of the given and the required state appear to be identical.
• Relationship of Problem Solving to Leadership Regardless of the level of seniority in the organization, the person who will manage the problem-solving process will be deemed a leader.
• Problem Solving Process at the Workplace It is possible to mention that the first solution may be the most optimal decision, if the managers of the new company agree to postpone the start of my career in this organization. This is […]
• Flow Charts in Customer Service Problem Solving For solving the problems that arise in the customer service environment as well as improving the processes an organization uses, it is very important to understand what is done in the company at every stage.
• Communication and Problem Solving – Part One It is a two way process because it involves listening and reflecting the responsibility of speaker or listener, its clear, and uses proper feedback, whereas problem solving is a mental process and involves finding the […]
• Aspects of the Mathematics Problem Solving At the same time, the woman leads a movement that aims to change the way teachers and students think about mathematics and perceive it.
• Decision Making, Problem Solving, and Critical Thinking Because there is a low retention rate in the profession. Why is there a low retention rate in the profession?
• Importance of Creative Problem Solving for Student The learning environment created in the classroom has to be tolerant of dissent and presented as a safe space for creativity.
• Problem Solving and Thinking Skills A teacher might choose to include written reflection as an assessment when they need to improve their educational strategies and analyze the existing limitations in teaching their subject.
• Army Design Methodology to Problem Solving Army Design Methodology is a process used by Army Leaders that allows them to apply critical thinking to analyze problems in the operational environment to find appropriate solutions to them.
• Group Leadership and Problem Solving Group leadership is an essential skill that determines the group’s success by creating a relaxed atmosphere, keeping the group focused on the goal, and mitigating conflicts. As a group leader, I have the responsibility of […]
• Problem Solving Aspects in Business In the fifth step, it is necessary to develop an action plan to solve the problem and implement the solution. The sixth step is to implement the plan and take action that will lead to […]
• A Deontological Ethical Framework Problem Solving A deontologist would firmly state that Afeni’s action is morally wrong because it violates a maxim and implies the categorical imperative.
• Application of the Problem Solving Process The simplicity of the suggested approach and its understandable character along with the clear logic contribute to the enhanced results and the high applicability of the proposed pattern.
• Sony Playstation TV Micro-Console: Problem Solving and Global Orientation The marketing plan created by Sony is dead on arrival, as it fails to address the current problems: organization issues, worldwide connection, lack of cohesion.
• Integration of the Business Problem Solving Model in Disney’s Case Study Partnering with local professionals for running business operations of Disney would have enabled the firm to implement progressive administrative policies in a professional context.
• Using of Collaborative Problem Solving Model The number of students in each group depends on the method that is used and is usually between 2 and 6 students.
• Creative Problem Solving in Production Management The most important thing for organizations in solving production failures is the adoption of an effective problem-solving approach. When will the production problem occur?
• Problem Solving Advice to Client A contract is defined as an agreement that leads to obligations of the parties to the agreement, such obligations are recognized by law It is a desire to be bound by the terms of an […]
• Problem Solving in the Life of a Young Woman The root of the young woman problem is a disregard of herself and her health. Kate must not sacrifice herself for the sake of her children and relatives.
• Education. Mathematics Standards on Problem Solving Towards this, it is the responsibility of every parent as member of a society not only to take care of the children but also to know how to help the children pass early childhood stage […]
• Influence of Functional Fixedness to Problem Solving The use of tools to solve problems is evidence of the cognitive capability of human beings. Despite the culture and background of a community, functional fixedness is likely to be observed.
• Personal Disorders and Problem Solving Skills The writers of this article therefore wanted to point out that the innate traits of an individual could be the provenance of most of the problem solving skills within an individual.
• Tutoring Young Children on Problem-Solving Skills Previously I thought imposing rules and fears on children was the only way of dealing with children’s needs, which is the opposite.
• Ethical Solution to Intercultural Problems It is necessary to underline the fact that this ethical resolution covers the necessity to provide weight to the choices and opinions of autonomous persons.
• The Creative Problem Solving Model According to the CPS model, in order to define a problem, it is important to collect information based on the following questions as Proctor indicates in the “Creative Problem Solving for Managers”.a) Does the problem […]
• The Process of Problem Solving Analysis For a successful analogical reasoning, an individual is able to transfer the appropriate quality of the known to the unknown in one-to-one communication. Selection is the picking of a known item to assist in explaining […]
• Problem Solving in the Corporate Setting: Reviving the Yahoo! Company The goal of this paper is to dissect the nature of the problem-solving approach at the Yahoo! The lack of consistency in organizational ethics and the unwillingness of its leaders to forecast and apply changes […]
• Steps for Effective Problem Solving in the Workplace One of the most referenced and acknowledged problem-solving guidelines is the strategy described by Hicks that includes seven steps. The third step is to create a list of all the available options and, consequently, the […]
• Creative Problem Solving: Knowledge Creation The processes of knowledge creation and knowledge acquisition are associated with a positive impact on business and the emergence of unique and useful ideas.
• General Chemistry: Problem Solving Videos Therefore, PSVs assist in avoiding the confusion since students can make allusions to their previous knowledge and by solidifying their comprehension of multiple themes.
• Six-Step Problem Solving Process The problem lies in whether it is viable to take the new job but pay for the continued education, or stay at the current position and hope for a promotion. I could agree to the […]
• AirSec Company: Problem Solving in Organization The Mission Statement for AirSec Ltd.can be formulated in the following way: The company works to serve the customers’ needs in the field of security in the United Kingdom and globally with the focus on […]
• Individual Strengths and Problem Solving Techniques This is beneficial to the group as it helps the members understand the assignments better. Other group members also have commendable skills and strengths that contribute to the group’s success as seen in the control […]
• Problem Solving and Decisions The main problem in the selected scenario is the concatenation of circumstances that place the subject in a position of having to make some difficult choices, all of which have significant consequences if avoided.
• Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s Creative Problem Solving Much of the information in the sources used proves that the non-standard ways of control and management help to improve performance and increase the interest of employees in the sphere in which they are involved.
• Leadership Models: Problem Solving Analysis The analysis aims to identify the model that can be used to turn around a training department that has failed to improve employee performance.
• Working Memory Load and Problem Solving The present research focuses on the way working memory load affects problem solving ability and the impact working memory capacity has on problem solving ability of people.
• Economic Tools: The Alcohol Abuse Problem Solving The four elements of an economic way of thinking are the use of assumptions, isolating variables, thinking at the margin, and the response of rational people to incentives.
• Six-Step Approach of Problem Solving in Decision Making In this case, I need to place myself in the position of a person who should decide if it is necessary to accept the job offer from a company that gives a higher salary.
• Technology Failure in Business: Problem Solving The second step in the tool ensures that the principal and the agent work together to develop an IT project with the greatest value for customers.
• Employment Problem Solving: Fran Hayden Case She said that she would think over and when she delayed in responding, the company called her again and this time around she accepted the offer though not convinced that she would enjoy the job.
• Cognitive Processes in Problem Solving An examination of the success of such a course of action in the past is also essential. Decision-making in a problem-solving environment involves an analysis of the possible courses of action that could be taken.
• Process Analysis and Problem Solving in Wal-Mart This policy was supposed to improve the functioning of the supply chain in this corporation, especially the procurement of products. The most important objective was to minimize the levels of inventory and reduce the operational […]
• Knowledge Transfer and Problem Solving Transfer of knowledge also known as transfer of learning is a notion that refers to the ease of performance of new tasks owing to previous exposure to a similar situation or a situation that shares […]
• Managing Internal and External Conflicts Given the adverse effects of stress, the ability to manage stress is a critical aspect in conflict resolution. As the discussion above has elucidated, there are a variety of conflict management strategies that can be […]
• Risk Management and Problem Solving-Twilight’s Corporation Precisely, the severity of this risk is quite high since it might hinder the growth and expansion of the company. The likelihood of this risk is equally high in case the company fails to maintain […]
• Problem Solving: Skinner’s Theory and Knox’s Test For example the functionality of language as explained by Skinner can help a person to get something that he or she is missing.
• Visualization for Thinking, Planning, and Problem Solving However these words that are representative of ideas and concepts can be stored in the mind and displayed in the form of word maps as our brains are able to discern that there is something […]
• Process Analysis and Problem Solving As the management of an organization introduces change in the company, there is always resistance to change with most employees opting to remain with the current processes of the firm.
• Applying Problem Solving So the problem is preventing unwanted pregnancy in a couple, and they require a scientific thinking to solve it. It is also imperative for that individual to provide concise and conclusive evidences on the advantages […]
• Problem Solving and Decision Making: Study Analysis The purpose of this study was to relate the model of problem solving process to Jung’s theory of personality types which identifies certain techniques to support individual differences.
• Applying Problem Solving Techniques Considering the “Customer Service” situation, it is common for a consumer to engage employees who are never mindful of the customer satisfaction or the loyalty.
• Problem Solving Application – Where in the World is Disney? The population of Shanghai should be considered in order to determine the amount of space required to establish the operations. The criterion to be used to estimate the economic status of the market should be […]
• Decision Making and Problem Solving Experiences, the level of information, the uniqueness of the situation and urgency of the matter are some of the factors that influence decision making.
• Problem Solving Process and Methods Review of industry publications Using this method in problem solving, we were able to gather information of the sporting retail shop concerning its market share.
• Problem Solving Skills Training and the Workplace It allows them to evaluate the impact and severity of unconventional solutions to the underlying problem with the stakeholders, clients, and allies. The training program will help employees to set aside and segregate the facts.
• Thinking Problem Solving and Team Building First and foremost, as a person endowed with the knowledge and a little bit of experience in offering engineering services for a range of pharmaceutical machines and equipments, it was my obligation to ensure that […]
• Sara Model-Community Problem Solving The methodology for solving this concerns that link to the club within a residential area would first involve identification of the main concerns of the residences and then development of strategies to address them.
• Group Communication: Decision Making and Problem Solving The diversity of the group affected the group members’ communication style since they exhibited varying levels of assertiveness with the psychiatrist being the most assertive of the group.
• Communication and Problem Solving – Part Two Compared to the competitive style, the people using the collaborative style acknowledge the importance of everyone in the group and cooperate with everyone. To bring these people together, a conflict resolution style that acknowledges the […]
• Critical Thinking in Problem Solving The common practice disorients the attention of the driver and endangers the lives of other individuals using the road. Thus, the technique has been employed to increase the production of food so as to meet […]
• Complex Problem Solving: What It Is and What It Is Not
• Applying Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills
• How Did Mathematics Postgraduates Obtain Tacit Knowledge of Mathematical Problem Solving
• Holmes’ Problem Solving Approach Can Be a Solution to the Truancy Problem
• Decision Making Costs and Problem Solving Performance
• The Florida Problem Solving Response to Intervention Program Evaluation
• Cognitive and Affective Correlates of Chinese Childrens Mathematical Word Problem Solving
• Community Orientated Policing and Problem Solving
• How Teacher Gestures Affect Student Problem Solving
• Ethics and Problem Solving in Organizations
• Editorial: Complex Problem Solving Beyond the Psychometric Approach
• Cheating, Kinda Cheating, Collaboration, or Creative Ethical Problem Solving?
• The Problem Solving and Positive Cognitive Restructuring
• Business Situation Analysis and Problem Solving
• The Army Problem Solving Model and the Rapid Decision Making and Synchronization Process
• Using the ‘Engagement’ Model of Problem Solving to Assist Students in Capstone Learning
• Collaboration, Problem Solving, and Conflict Management
• Collaborative Problem Solving: Processing Actions, Time, and Performance
• Individual Strengths and Problem Solving Techniques
• Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Learning Development
• Heuristic Problem Solving: The Next Advance in Operations Research
• How Working Memory Provides Representational Change During Insight Problem Solving
• How Teachers Can Facilitate Problem Solving Development
• Integration Between Natural and Social Science in Problem Solving Philosophy
• Army Problem Solving Model and the Rapid Decision Making and Synchroniza
• The Relationship Between Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Economic Development and the Role of Creativity and Problem Solving
• Reading Comprehension and Mathematical Problem Solving Skills
• Critical Thinking Applying Reasoning to Problem Solving
• Video Games and Its Effect on a Person’s Problem Solving Skills
• Effective Problem Solving And Efficient Communication Skills
• Creativity and Problem Solving in the Development of Organizational Innovation
• Analysing Information and Data for Problem Solving
• Incubation and Intuition in Creative Problem Solving
• Analyzing the Decision Making and Problem Solving Processes
• The Relationship Between Reading Comprehension and Problem Solving to Academic Achievement
• Creative Problem Solving for Personal Planning and Development
• Civic Engagement Through Community Problem Solving
• The Relationship Between Number Sense and Problem Solving
• How Personality Types and Temperament Affect Decision Making and Problem Solving Skills
• How Confirmation Bias and Fixation Interfere With Effective Problem Solving
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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List of 111 Problem and Solution Essay Topics Has Got You Covered

If you are struggling to pick your problem and solution essay topic , you are welcome to proceed reading this article, which will not only clarify everything you need to know about this type of essays, but will also provide a categorized list of 111 attention-grabbing and creative topics.

What Is a Problem and Solution Essay?

Writing a problem and solution essay might seem challenging at first, but once you’ve got your topic, you’re golden. The reason is that there are basically only two major things you will need to write about in your problem and solution essay, which makes it so much easier to research information and structure the paper. Problem and solution essay structure and format are quite specific and they are useful to know before you start writing. Let us cover the concepts of problem and solution at first.

Problem is a question that requires solution. Anything that demands settling is a problem, which means you have a whole lot of issues to choose from.

Solution is a process or action that settles the problem. Problem and solution go together like peas and carrots.

  Questions that contain topics for problem and solution essays usually start with “how?”

Problem and Solution Essays Topics List

In this article you will find 10 major categories of topics, which will make it quick and easy for you to decide what type of problem and solution you would like to focus on in your essay. Here is a list of these topic categories:

• Social issues
• Crime issues
• Economic issues
• Cultural issues
• Interpersonal relationships
• Political issues
• Health issues
• Environment issues
• For college students

  Below you will find 111 topics for each category that are truly topical and interesting at the moment.

Social Issues

• How to improve privacy in digital society?
• How to create a fair and ethical immigration system?
• How can the issue of racial discrimination be solved in our society?
• What are the ways of reducing gender pay gap?
• How can the problem of cyberbullying be solved?
• How can body shaming issue be solved?
• What can our society do to reduce the impact of gender roles?
• How can body positivity movement be prevented from going too far?
• How to encourage people to adopt children?
• How can domestic violence be reduced in our society?
• What are the ways of eliminating domestic violence against elderly?
• How is it possible to control and regulate teenage pregnancy issue?

Crime Issues

• How can the issue of gangs be brought under control?
• How can the increasing problem of mass shootings be solved?
• What are the solutions to gun violence problem?
• What are the ways to prevent white collar crime?
• How can police brutality be eliminated?
• How is it possible to eliminate the association between poverty and crime?
• What are the ways to prevent large corporations from polluting the environment?
• What are the most effective ways of reducing driving under influence (DUI) rates?
• What are the ways to reduce racial violence?
• How can the issue of cyber crime be solved?
• What are the ways to solve real estate fraud problem?
• How can wrongful imprisonment cases be minimized?

Economic Issues

• How can the problem of unemployment be settled in the long run?
• How can monopolies be brought under control?
• How can SMEs be promoted by the government and society?
• How can technologies be used to reduce waste?
• How can domestic economy be stimulated without limiting imports?
• How can different types of unemployment be solved?
• How can the issue of consumer debt be reduced?
• How can domestic goods and services remain compatible in global markets?
• What are the ways to control inflation?
• How can tourism rate be increased?

Cultural Issues

• How can cultural appropriation be reduced or eliminated?
• How can cultural diversity be promoted in organizations?
• How is it possible to increase the number of films that pass Bechdel test?
• What are possible solutions to consumerism?
• How can detrimental impact of fast fashion industry on consumerism be reduced?
• How can the culture of throw-away society be eliminated?
• How can people learn respect for other cultures?
• How can the issue of ageism be solved in our culture?
• What are the ways of encouraging cultural exchange?
• What are the ways of reducing cultural impact of the ideal body image promoted in the media
• What are the solutions to cultural issues in managing culturally diverse workforce?

Interpersonal Relationships

• How can a person go out of abusive relationships?
• How can trust between children and parents be built?
• How can people fight racial discrimination on the level of interpersonal relationships in everyday life?
• How to develop confidence?
• How can negative effects of social media be reduced in face-to-face communication?
• How can we as individuals increase technical literacy across all ages?
• How can we as individuals support the elderly?
• What are the ways to solve the issue of marital rape?
• How can the issue of overprotective parents be solved?

Political Issues

• How can piracy be stopped?
• How can military threats in the world be reduced through diplomacy?
• How can the government make education more affordable?
• How can the government improve the quality of life for the disabled?
• What are the ways of eliminating child labor?
• What are legal ways to stop human trafficking?
• What steps should the government take to solve the issue of immigrant assimilation?
• How is is possible to increase the number of voters during elections?
• How can legislation limit the sources of campaign financing for political candidates?

Health Issues

• How can the issue of obesity be solved?
• What are the ways of reducing child obesity?
• How can people be educated about healthy food?
• How can overconsumption of sugar be reduced?
• What are the ways to promote physical activity and sports?
• How can open discussion of mental health issues be encouraged in our society?
• What are the ways of regulating the risks of increasing rates of cosmetic plastic surgery?
• What are the ways of solving stress-related health issues?
• How can the problem of substance abuse be solved?
• How is it possible to minimize the issue of STDs?
• What are the ways of reducing the number of tobacco consumption?

Environment Issues

• How can green cars solve the issue of air pollution?
• How can the problem of greenwashing be solved?
• What are the ways to reduce plastic pollution?
• What are the ways we can recycle as individuals?
• How can fracking be brought under control?
• How can deforestation be reduced?
• What are the ways of waste management we need to implement as a society?
• How can reducing biodiversity be improved?
• What are the ways of reducing population density in urban areas?
• What are possible solutions to the issue of overpopulation and resource depletion?
• What are the ways of transferring to alternative energy sources?
• How can production process externalities be minimized?
• What are the ways to solve the issue of landfills?
• How can lack of clean drinking water be solved?
• What are the ways of solving the issue of disruptive students?
• How can schools improve social programs, such as art?
• How can schools improve school security systems to ensure safety of students and teachers?
• How can schools promote tolerance?
• How is it possible to eliminate bullying in schools?
• How can schools contribute to solving the issue of gender discrimination?
• How can schools contribute to solving the issue of racial discrimination?
• How can schools contribute to the solution of the issue of suicide?
• What are the ways of reducing cheating?
• How can schools encourage students to be lifelong learners?
• How can schools adjust their education programs to the requirements of modern society (e.g. technical literacy)?

For College Students

• How can the issue of student loans be solved?
• How to increase efficiency of studying in college?
• What are the ways college student can choose their major?
• How to avoid procrastination in college?
• What are the ways of avoiding cheating?
• How to control the level of stress in college?
• What are the ways to maintain healthy diet while studying in college?
• How can colleges adjust their programs to the requirements of current labor market?
• What are the ways the government can support college education?
• How can college students avoid substance abuse?
• How can college students avoid alcohol abuse?
• What are the ways to make college education more affordable?

Problem and Solution Essay Structure

Now that you have selected your topic, you may proceed to learning the problem and solution essay format and structure. As soon as you read these structural elements, you will know how to write a problem and solution text:

• Introduction of the problem

This part of the essay will uncover the issue you write about and its causes. Make sure to explain why this issue is topical and requires settlement. Also, you can review current situation with this problem and evaluate past steps made to solve it. For instance, use OECD and Greenpeace websites to research about environmental issues and World Bank resource to find out about demographics.

• Discussion of possible solutions of the problem

  Research and discuss all possibilities available to settle the problem. This part of the essay should fully answer to the question “how to solve the problem?” and provide evidence. To research ways of problem solution, you can turn to news agency websites, such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and good old Wikipedia.

Summarize your essay here and restate your thesis. Evaluate the ways of problem solution you have found.

Problem and Solution Speech

The problem and solution topics listed above will also make great topics for your problem and solution speech.

While preparing your problem and solution speech, you will find these tips useful:

• Form your topic as a question that will help you communicate and engage with the audience
• Include 4 major structural elements in your speech : introduction of the problem and its causes, discussion of solution, visuals, and conclusion.
• Make sure to prepare visual aid that will support your speech
• Avoid reading whole passages from your speech – pick the most essential information and present it to your audience
• Choose a problem that you personally care about – this is how you will enjoy writing problem and solution essay and perform better too!
• Research the causes of the problem you write about to have better understanding of it
• Any problem has multiple aspects to it and make sure to cover them all
• Focus on the ways to reduce or eliminate the problem.  If you feel like a problem you focus on, can’t be eliminated completely, it doesn’t mean nothing can be done.

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A List of 339 Problem Solution Essay Topics & Questions

A problem solution essay is a type of persuasive essay. It’s a piece of writing that presents a particular problem and provides different options for solving it. It is commonly used for subject exams or IELTS writing tasks.

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In this article, we’ll take a look at how to write this type of essay. We will also provide ideas of good problem and solution essay topics to ease students’ writing process. But first: check out our custom writing service in case you need academic assistance!

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ How to Write a Problem Solution Essay

⭐ top 10 problem and solution essay topics for 2024.

• 🧑🤝🧑 Topics about Society
• 🏫 Topics on Education
• 💵 Business & Finance Topics
• 🍎 Health & Psychology Topics
• 🌎 Environment Topics
• 🐶 Topics about Animals
• 🔬 Science & Technology Topics
• 🏠 Local Problem Solution Topics
• 😄 Funny & Easy Topics
• 🤔 Other Problem Solution Topics

🔍 References

🔝 top 10 problem solution essay topics.

• The best way to improve logistics
• How to prevent drunk driving
• How can we prevent stroke?
• Ways to promote independent music
• How to prevent teen pregnancy
• Can schools help with childhood obesity?
• Ways to teach children financial literacy
• What can we do to stop human trafficking?
• Can teaching self-defense reduce violence?
• Building dams to fight the flooding problem

When starting to write an essay, think about a problem in the community that needs to be resolved. Sometimes, you will get a ready topic, like at an IELTS exam.

The topics might vary, but the outline of an essay will remain the same. First, write a list of actions that can help to solve the problem. Then, pick the three that you like best and evaluate them.

Once you get your solutions, start writing.

Any essay, whether it’s for high school or college, should be well-structured. Problem solution essays consist of two paragraphs: problem description and solution . The first section is generally divided into several parts:

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

• Introduction. Provide the definition of the problem, some general background, and thesis statement with possible solutions.
• Situation. Give clear examples on the issue so that readers can understand it better.
• Problem. Describe the issue and its effect on people.

In the solution section, you need to identify several potential solutions and evaluate their effectiveness. It should include:

• Two or more possible solutions .
• Evaluation and critical assessment of the solutions.
• Conclusion with a summary of the main points of the text.

Now, you have a general idea about the writing process. To help facilitate your writing, take a look at the topic ideas below.

• Is group therapy effective against BPD?
• Can smart fridges prevent binge eating?
• Can having remote workers decrease costs?
• Sustainable homes as a way to save energy
• How nature reserves prevent wildlife extinction
• Reducing education costs with online education
• Is gun control a way to stop mass shootings?
• Can class discussions help fight youth violence?
• One-child policy as a way to stop overpopulation
• Is car sharing effective for decreasing CO2 emissions?

🧑🤝🧑 Problem and Solution Topics about Society

Social issues are problems of every level that influence the members of our society. They may refer to various factors, such as racial inequality or bullying, that affect the well-being of people or the community as a whole. Here are some problem-solving topics that will help you start writing.

• A part of the world’s population lives in conditions that don’t meet their basic needs. What are the ways to alleviate or prevent poverty ?
• There were several instances when social media websites were accused of gathering people’s private information . What are the ways to ensure privacy in the digital age?
• A vast number of girls get pregnant and give birth before the age of 20. What are some ways to reduce the teenage pregnancy rate in your country?
• Body shaming is one of the biggest problems of today’s society. What are the ways to solve this issue?
• Despite an increase in public awareness about the adverse effects of racism , the issue persists. How can we eliminate it?
• Unemployment negatively affects the living conditions of many people. It also facilitates such issues as domestic violence and depression. How can unemployment rates be improved in your country?

• Education is a fundamental human right, yet many people in some developing countries remain illiterate. How can we solve this issue?
• Habits such as smoking and overeating negatively affect people’s health. How can we better promote healthy lifestyles ?
• Victims of domestic violence often develop physical disabilities, chronic health problems, and stress. In what ways can we reduce domestic violence in our society?
• Inequality in payment, sexual harassment, and difficulty getting promoted are some of the issues women face at workplaces. What can our society do to increase equality ?
• Celebrities often appear to look flawless, which affects people’s body image . How can we promote healthier beauty standards ?
• When children observe violent behaviors , they become more aggressive. In what ways can we prevent them from witnessing violence?
• Health care is a major social issue, as many people don’t have access to high-quality services. How can we improve this situation?
• The ownership of guns increases the chances of unintentional shootings, which can result in casualties. How can gun control policies be improved?
• The consumption of illegal drugs often leads to overdosing. In what ways can people be persuaded not to do drugs?
• Drunk driving is the leading cause of vehicle accidents. What is the best way to restrict people from doing it?
• Human trafficking is a grave problem that affects countries all over the world. How can it be prevented?
• Women often report being sexually assaulted while in college. What can we do to reduce this problem?
• Homeless people are more likely to engage in abuse or violent behavior. What can be done to solve the issue?
• Parental divorce is a traumatic experience for a child. How can its adverse effects be eliminated?

🏫 Problem Solution Essay Topics on Education

The educational system is riddled with issues. You can think of numerous drawbacks that need to be addressed to make education better. Below are several examples of problem solution essay topics that will inspire you to write.

• In the pandemic environment, many students had to resort to online education , often with questionable quality. What are the ways to make e-learning effective?
• Many schools fail to provide adequate sex education programs. How can we reduce the stigma around this topic?
• Numerous students get bad grades due to reasons other than laziness. How can we help struggling learners?
• For many students, a strict schedule remains a big issue. Should students be offered the possibility of flexibility?
• Many private and public schools require a strict uniform . Are there ways to express one’s individuality without violating the dress code?
• A majority of students in schools and colleges admit to cheating . What are the ways to put an end to this behavior?
• Technology usage in education can be beneficial, as it might improve engagement and individual learning. How can schools become more adaptable to digitalization?
• Learning a foreign language can help students develop additional mental abilities. Should it be mandatory in all schools?
• Students often find themselves delaying or postponing tasks. It leads to lower grades and health issues, such as headaches or insomnia . How can we reduce the levels of student procrastination ?
• Obesity is associated with the leading causes of death in the US. Should the educational system include more physical education classes to build a fitter community?
• Students with learning disorders may have a feeling of frustration when mastering a subject. In what ways can colleges adapt to their needs?
• There are many subjects in school, and not all of them are equally useful for everyone. How can we make sure that students are learning what is best for them?
• Schools often put more funding into science, mathematics, and humanities. Should they also fund physical education (PE)?
• Gifted education allows talented students to learn more and move ahead at their pace. At the same time, it creates inequality. How can these programs be improved?
• Disruptive children usually prevent themselves and other students in class from working. What are the ways to deal with these students to make the work effective?
• The core curriculum for all schools allows all children to be taught all subjects but can be a bit strict. Should all schools have the same curriculum?
• Students are often provided with college preparation classes that don’t prepare them for work. Should schools focus more on getting students job-ready?
• Bullying and violence are the major issues at school that affect mental and physical health. What can teachers do to prevent these behaviors at school?
• The majority of students don’t perform equally well in all subjects. Instead, they excel in certain ones and fail in others. Should learners be allowed to choose their courses?
• Printed books are not easy to update, as new editions are often costly. Should schools move to digital textbooks ?

💵 Business & Finance Problem Solutions Topics

A significant number of issues can arise while managing a business or creating a startup. It can be related to anything from cybersecurity to marketing strategies. If you are into entrepreneurship, consider choosing a problem solutions topic from the list below.

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• Raising minimum wages might result in the loss of jobs. What are the alternatives?
• Job dissatisfaction often stems from issues related to wages, career progression, and leadership approach. How can we increase job satisfaction?
• The high unemployment rate brings an economic loss to the government, as well as causes individual sufferings. What are the possible methods to reduce it?

• A large number of startups fail in the first year of functioning. How can governments ensure their sustainability?
• Low employee productivity can create serious setbacks for businesses. What are the ways to increase productivity?
• Bad customer service damages the company’s reputation and leads to the loss of clients. What are the steps to fix this issue?
• The lack of teamwork might result in efficiency and productivity drop. How can we improve team cooperation in the company?
• Inflation negatively affects people with fixed wages and large amounts of cash savings. How can it be avoided?
• Carrying a student loan debt and failure to repay one may result in serious financial troubles. How can we solve the problems associated with student credit?
• The lack of performance monitoring might lead to unintended behaviors within the organization. How can we persuade people to start using a set of performance indicators?
• A significantly high number of people live from payday to payday, failing to accumulate savings. What is the best way to save money monthly?
• Bad investments rarely bring any profit. How can people avoid poor investments?
• Financial crisis can lead to mass job losses and businesses shutting down. How can we overcome recessions effectively?
• The biggest challenge for small businesses during a pandemic is staying open and making a profit. How can governments support small businesses in case of another epidemic?
• Poor marketing might result in financial problems and low customer volumes. How can you improve an average marketing strategy ?
• Imagine a company whose cash flow is adequate, yet there aren’t enough financial resources for it to grow. What are the ways to manage a strapped budget?
• Employee turnover has immediate consequences for a company. How can we reduce it?
• Business competition can harm small businesses through price factors and labor costs. How can they handle the competition?
• Poor workflow directly affects the revenue of the company. How can companies manage it effectively?
• Unsatisfied customers might spread the word about the ineffectiveness of the company. How can organizations increase customer satisfaction ?

🍎 Health & Psychology Problem Solving Topics

Problems related to health and mental well-being are common in the modern world. It’s not surprising, considering the influence of consumerist culture and environmental factors. You can address any issue you’re particularly concerned about. The following problem solution essay topics will give you an idea of where to start.

• There are several reasons for poor mental health among older people in the US. What are the ways to improve it?
• Substance addiction affects individuals because of the stigma associated with it. In what ways can we help people in recovery?
• A significant number of people suffer from eating disorders , which affects their mental and physical states. How can society prevent it?
• Depression is a common disorder among teenagers. How can teachers and parents help them manage it?
• Birth order can impact the way parents treat their children and children’s behavior. Can we, as a society, raise more awareness about the effects of birth order ?
• Post-traumatic stress disorder is experienced by people who suffered from trauma. How can society help those who have it?
• Peer pressure forces people to do things that they might not want to do. How can we reduce its influence?
• Romantic relationships often fail due to misunderstandings. How do we raise awareness about the possible difference in love styles?
• Schizophrenia is a complicated mental illness that has a severe impact on one’s life. How can society help people seek treatment for this disorder?
• Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) might isolate themselves from peers. How can teachers and parents help kids with social skills impairments?
• Alzheimer’s disease affects intellectual and physical abilities, memory, and personality. How can people prevent its development?
• Somatization disorder is a tendency to feel psychological pain in the form of physical. What is the best treatment for its symptoms?
• Prolonged use of defense mechanisms makes people feel as if they aren’t in control of their own emotions. How can we help people overcome these feelings?
• A significant percentage of children have ADHD . How can we help children with this disorder?
• Nowadays, many people have sleep disorders. How can insomnia be prevented?
• The coronavirus pandemic of 2020 caused many children to feel lonely and detached. What can parents do to help their kids in case of another pandemic?
• Suicide is a growing problem among people of all ages. What can we do to prevent it?
• Constant stress negatively affects sleep quality. What techniques can help improve it?
• It’s natural for parents to help their children as much as possible. But because of this, they often put them under too much pressure. How can we help parents find the right balance?
• Constant stress increases the chances of stroke . What are the ways to reduce the risk?

🌎 Problem Solving Topic Ideas about Environment

Today’s most significant environmental issue is climate change, but it’s not the only one. There are more global problems that need to be resolved. If you’re concerned about the environment, here are some problem-cause-solution topics for you.

• Drinking water has become an uncommon thing in many countries due to pollution. What can people do to help with this problem?
• Climate change has numerous adverse effects, such as shifting seasons and new sicknesses. How can this issue be effectively addressed?
• Vehicles release a significant amount of greenhouse gases , which contributes to global warming. Should there be a rule about reducing car usage to facilitate the solution to the environmental problem?
• Woodlands produce oxygen and help regulate the temperature. Unfortunately, a vast amount of wooded areas is lost due to deforestation . What are the possible ways to solve this problem?
• Marine life is suffering because of the amount of carbon in the water. How can people protect it?
• Air pollution poses a serious danger to people’s health . How can we reduce its adverse effects?
• Overpopulation results in a deficiency of assets like water, food, and fuel. How can we control it?
• Ozone depletion leads to an increase in the amount of ultraviolet. It results in cancer and other skin diseases. How can we solve this problem?
• Due to overpopulation , people use natural resources faster than nature can replenish them. How can we prevent its depletion?
• Leftover food is a massive problem, as it wastes water and farmland. How can we reduce it?
• Pesticides used to grow fruits and vegetables might cause health problems. How can we promote organic farming ?

• Polluted soil contains chemicals dangerous to humans, animals, and plants. Is there something that can help to avoid soil pollution ?
• Using bicycles reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. How can governments promote the usage of bicycles to reduce air pollution ?
• Natural disasters result from Earth’s processes and negatively affect people’s lives. What can we do to prepare for natural hazards?
• Fluorinated gases used in refrigerators and hair sprays significantly contribute to climate change. How can we minimize their impact on the environment?
• Oil spills harm wildlife and marine life, as well as contribute to climate change. How can major companies prevent that from happening?
• Marine life is drowning in plastic, which creates major environmental issues. How can we stop plastic pollution in the ocean?
• The rapid loss of biodiversity threatens our health and economic stability. What can we, as consumers, do to solve this issue?
• A significant amount of money is spent on cleaning garbage. Still, it’s not enough to get rid of it completely. What are the solutions to the problem of littering ?
• Noise pollution creates discomfort and lowers the quality of people’s lives. What are the practical ways to reduce it?

🐶 Problem Solution Essay Topics about Animals

Animals have existed on our planet way before the emergence of humans. As time went by, many species vanished or became endangered due to people’s activities. Factory farms, fur industry, poaching— all of these issues require a solution. If you’re passionate about this topic, try exploring one of the following prompts.

• Circus animals are often violently forced to jump through rings of fire, ride bicycles, and do other activities. How can we stop the use of wild animals in circuses?
• Experiments on animals lead to reduced quality of their life and are often ineffective. How can we help stop this practice?
• Hunting causes pain and suffering to animals and disrupts the patterns created in the animal communities, such as wolf packs. How can people reduce hunting?
• The animals in zoos are deprived of natural habitat and are forced to be near people. How can we make zoos as comfortable as possible for them?
• The fur industry takes millions of animals’ lives away. How can people stop it?
• One of the issues animal shelters face is the lack of public awareness. What are the strategies to improve their work?
• Many animals live in abusive environments, where they’re neglected or physically hurt. What are the solutions to this problem?
• Dog Hunters Association argues for the right to use dogs in hunting. How can we change their attitude towards animals?
• Dogs from puppy mills are often poorly treated and suffer from a variety of diseases. How can this practice be stopped?
• Due to human activities, many animals are on the brink of extinction. How can we protect endangered species ?
• Dog meat is still used for human consumption in some parts of Asia. What are the ways to stop the inhumane trade?
• Some animal species are sold, either alive or dead, to various countries. What are the ways to stop the wildlife trade and keep animals safe in their natural environment?
• One of the primary reasons for animal extinction is poaching . What are the solutions to this issue?
• After adopting animals, some people decide that they no longer want them and send them to shelters. How can we prevent this from happening?
• Killing horses for meat is inhumane, and horse meat consumption is dangerous. How can we stop these practices?
• With more forests being cleared for farming and building, wild animals lose their natural habitats. How can people make safer environments for them?
• Ring fighting leaves animals with severe wounds that might lead to death. What can we do to stop it?
• Some countries continue to kill whales for commercial purposes, which threatens their existence. How can we stop whaling?
• The continuation of the ivory trade results in thousands of elephants being killed annually. What actions should be taken to stop it?
• Factory farms work to maximize profit, which is why animals are kept in inhumane conditions. What are the ways to reduce this cruelty?

🔬 Science & Technology Problem Solutions Topics

Scientific and technological processes are complicated and riddled with issues. Advances in these fields increase as well as worsen the quality of human life. In case you’re interested in science or technology, have a look at these problem solution essay topics.

• With the widespread use of technology, students can find everything online, which affects their critical thinking . What are the most effective ways to preserve this ability?
• There’s a price we have to pay for living in a digital age . It includes the loss of online data privacy. What is the best way to maintain it?
• To run research, scientists need large amounts of money, which often becomes an issue. How can they get more funding?
• A significant percentage of research papers contain wrong results due to poor study design . What is the best way to improve it?
• Scientists rarely want to replicate existing research. The results might turn out insignificant, and some studies are too hard to replicate. How can scientists be encouraged to do it nevertheless?
• Peer review is meant to prevent poor-quality works from being published. Yet, it doesn’t always work. How can the peer review system be fixed?
• Often, not everyone can access a published study due to journals being expensive. How can we make knowledge more accessible?
• Many people are unaware of scientific research in crucial areas such as nutrition . What is the best way to communicate scientific facts to a larger population?
• Cyber attacks are a significant threat to many businesses, as they involve the theft of large amounts of information. What are the ways to prevent them from happening?
• Artificial intelligence implementation creates new challenges, such as the risk of unemployment. How can we solve emerging technological problems?
• Technological advances allowed some countries to transition to cashless societies . While it has many advantages, it also creates some security concerns. What is the best solution for these issues?
• With technology advancing at a quicker pace, it is harder to find talented personnel to work with it. How can you help the employees to adapt to new technologies?
• While many researchers have ideas for studies, only a few get financial support for them. How can the government support scientists more effectively?

• Mobile apps, social media, and games distract people from the real world. How can we stop smartphone addiction ?
• Many graduating Ph.D. students have limited training for jobs outside of academic research. What can universities do to change the situation for the better?
• Wearable computers, such as Apple Watch , have become very convenient. Yet, they create additional privacy and security issues. How can we overcome the challenges of body-borne computers?
• Cyberbullying victims might experience psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and social exclusion. What is the best way to prevent it?
• Environmental issues, such as air and water pollution , negatively affect the quality of life. How can technology help us save the environment?
• Scientists are often obligated to publish research only with statistically significant results. How can bias towards certain studies be eliminated?
• The constant stress and underpayment cause talented people to quit their careers in science. How can they be encouraged to continue working in their field?

🏠 Local Problem Solution Essay Topics

Another excellent idea for your essay is to write about the problems in your community. Think about the issues that need to be resolved, and start your writing. These topics will facilitate your creativity.

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• A significant number of people view affordability of healthcare as a pressing problem, as it is quite expensive. How can healthcare costs be reduced in your community?
• Children may be exposed to hazardous labor, which can harm their health. What can be done to stop child labor in your country?
• Youth violence increases the possibility of future behavior and mental health problems. How can people stop this type of violent behavior in your community?
• The rise in rent prices makes housing hard to afford. How can housing in your country be improved?
• People who leave school or college often feel unprepared for work. This makes them feel anxious about getting a job. How can school leavers in your country be helped to get employed?
• When they get older, many young adults struggle to manage their finances. What is the best way to improve financial literacy in your community?
• A good internet connection has become a necessity for many people. This also made access to high-speed internet a major issue. How can you solve this problem in your local community?
• Drug addiction is a public health problem that affects many people, especially youth. What are the solutions to the drug abuse problem in your country?
• Traffic congestion causes environmental issues, as well as vehicle breakdowns. What is the best way to stop this in your country?
• Poverty leads to a lack of education, malnutrition, social exclusion, and limited access to other essential services. How can this problem be solved in your country?
• Crime can cause short-term problems, like an injury , and long-term ones, such as depression or PTSD . How can illegal behavior be reduced in your community?
• After graduating from college, many students face difficulties in finding a job. How can educational institutions in your country help graduates get employed?
• Public transportation can be frustrating with its inflexibility and delays. How can it be improved in your country?
• Lack of car parking areas is a common problem in urban areas. How can people solve this issue in your city?
• Junk food advertisements target children, which later leads to an increase in childhood obesity. How can we protect young people in your country from being affected by these advertisements?
• Hate crime affects the security of individuals and societies as a whole. How can such crimes be prevented in your community?
• Corruption is a global issue that negatively affects the economic and political systems of the country. What are the measures to resolve this issue in your state?
• Low fertility rates reduce the population size of a country. If your country has low birth rates, how can it be improved?
• Media propaganda has the potential of promoting violent behavior and reducing trust in the government. How should this problem be dealt with in your country?
• The number of acts of domestic violence against women, men, and children continues to grow drastically in many societies. How should these cases be handled in your country?

😄 Funny & Easy Problem Solution Essay Topics

Problems are not always serious and yet require a solution. Whether it’s a choice of cereal or a friend zone, it’s an issue that has to be dealt with. Take a look at the funny problem solution essay topics list, and choose the one you like the most.

• We often buy items that we never use afterward. How can we prevent ourselves from buying unnecessary stuff ?
• Your favorite soccer team keeps losing, and it’s affecting your mood. What’s the best way to cope with this continuous disappointment?
• You’ve invented a cool, new nickname for yourself. How do you get people to use it?
• You love playing League of Legends with your friend. They’re the worst support, but they insist on having this role. What should you do about it?
• Santa Claus is a beloved figure for many children. But they can’t believe in him forever. How should parents tell their kids that Santa isn’t real?
• Water is crucial to human survival. Still, some people don’t like its bland taste. How can you stay hydrated without resorting to unhealthy, sugary drinks?
• Happiness matters, as it makes people feel at ease. What can you do to make your community happier?
• Your partner loves jazz while you prefer death metal. How do you overcome this musical discrepancy?

• A sturdy case can ruin the appearance even of the most beautiful phone. How can one compromise effectively on this issue?
• House parties are fun, but your neighbors probably disagree. How can you throw a noisy party without upsetting those who live close by?
• It’s hard to keep up the spark in long-distance relationships. Conversations via Zoom quickly get boring. What are fun things a couple can do together on the internet?
• Many people believe that legalizing marijuana will reduce its consumption levels and solve social and economic issues. What are the other solutions to cannabis use?
• Taking a perfect selfie requires much patience. How can you make creating a fantastic picture of yourself easier?
• Pizza is great, but it’s not particularly healthy. How can you upgrade your favorite junk food to make it more nourishing?
• Studies have shown that growing houseplants is good for the mood. But what do you do if you simply don’t have a green thumb?
• Exercising is important, but it’s not fun for everyone. What can unathletic people do to stay fit without suffering?
• Being the funny one among friends often prevents people from taking you seriously. What can change people’s attitude towards you?
• Some people face the issue of “having a lot of clothes, but nothing to wear.” How can we fix this problem?
• Your friends want to go on a trip soon, but you’re broke. What are the best strategies for students to save $100 in four weeks?

🤔 Other Problem Solution Essay Topics

• What can we do about the problem of smoking in teenagers?
• Obesity as a global problem of modern society
• Reading problems and how to help students with reading disabilities
• The solutions to environmental effects of e-waste
• Potential solutions to noise pollution
• The migration issue and how to solve it
• The discussion and solution of COVID-19 ethical dilemma
• The problem of lack of parking in big cities and how to help it
• Nursing shortage as a national healthcare issue
• Agriculture in Honduras: existing challenges and possible solutions
• The issue of patient safety
• The problem of safety and efficiency amidst staff deficiency
• The problem of substance abuse and mental health issues within the homeless African American community
• The issue of medically assisted suicide
• The problem of obesity in India
• Medicare challenges and issues facing America
• The problem of institutional racism: effects and possible solutions
• Contemporary issues in health care delivery
• Solution of every-day problems: scientific method
• The issue of genetically modified crops
• Librarian management consultancy: challenges and solutions
• The software patent issues in China
• The solution to compassion fatigue and related issues in nursing
• Is e-cigarettes smoking a solution?
• Problems in a contemporary health environment and how to overcome them
• American government contemporary issues
• Can obesity problem be solved by proper nutrition and exercise?
• Diversity and cross-cultural issues in the global workplace
• Ethical issues and dilemmas in business
• Finding solutions for ethical dilemma
• Translating Emirati proverbs: problems and solutions
• How to solve traffic congestion in my school district
• The Rock Blocks company’s recruiting issues and solutions
• Staffing problem solution: HR metrics and workforce analytics
• Solving the health problems of the United States
• Possible solutions to health disparities
• Problems of sitting for long and their solutions
• Will banning plastic bags not solve pollution problem?
• Problem of predicting fluid responsiveness and its solution
• Escalating drug prices: the ways to avoid the problem
• The best way to address obesity in the United States
• Solution to the world poverty problem
• Gun violence: the ways to overcome the issue
• Design solutions for improving website quality and effectiveness
• Is simplification the best way to express ideas?
• Fairtrade: better solution to underdevelopment
• The problem of drug addiction in America and the solutions to it
• Can charging children as adults solve juvenile criminal problems?
• Stress in law: reasons and solutions
• The ways to solve the increasing incidence of criminals reverting
• Communication solutions for atmospheric scientist
• Are financial rewards the best way to increase work motivation?
• The environmental effects of the deforestation problem and how to solve it
• Recycling: finding the solution
• The use of the Internet to solve crimes
• The solution to social inequality and discrimination
• Encryption as a corporate security technological solution
• Principal threats to a building efficiency research and ways to overcome them
• Lack of social tolerance as the cause of discriminatory behavior problem and its solutions
• Environmental problems and their potential solutions
• Why technostress is harmful to psychological well-being and ways to reduce it
• Infant’s health: growth problems and solutions
• Community policing: the alternative solution to youth crime
• Strategies to overcome the organization’s problem due to community losses
• Metropolitan police service: identity management solution
• The problem of sexual harassment in the army and the ways to eliminate it
• Reasons of anti-Asian crimes and ways to deal with the problem
• Green logistics: implementation issues and solutions
• Technological solutions for effective communication
• Ways to defend against cyber terrorism
• Workplace conflict problem and its solutions
• Doha negotiations: possible solutions and outcomes
• Handling difficult conversations and ways to avoid conflict escalation
• Healthcare in Canada: problems and solutions
• Problem of verbal orders in medicine and how to overcome it
• Law contracts and ways to break the contract
• Cinemark USA, Inc.: problems and solutions
• Air pollution solutions: how to improve air quality
• The problem of homelessness in Los Angeles and the ways to reduce it
• Jamaica’s economy: problems and solutions
• Solutions to poverty in urban areas
• Australian economy: economic problems and ways of its solving
• Decrease the disparity between rich and poor solution
• Lebanon’s environmental problems and solutions
• Ways of treating obesity in older patients
• The global water crisis: issues and the ways to avoid them
• The Bauer school’s parking problem and solution
• Ways of reducing human trafficking of children
• Heartland payment system data breach problem solution
• Immigration policy in US. problem and how to solve it
• The ways to overcome the investment problem
• The problem of dysfunctional companies and its solution
• Du Bois vs. Washington: racist problem solution
• Fad diets’ impact on human health: problem solution
• Environmental challenges for NAFTA and how to solve them
• Three solutions to the problem of pollution externalities
• Buying things to solve personal problems
• Remington Peckinpah Davis Inc.’s problem solution
• Problem solution: best snacks INC.
• Solutions to the problem of steroids in sports and athletics
• Problem solution: global communications
• The problem of global warming and ways of its solution
• Cyber-bullying and ways to solve the problem
• Losses of personal data: problem and solution
• Obamacare: the solution to the healthcare problem
• The problem of Palestinian-Israeli conflict and viable solution
• The problem of coral reef depletion and how to address it
• Social security long-term solvency problems
• Economic crisis: bailout plan as solution
• The problem of anterior spacing in dentistry female patients and possible solutions
• Rising sea levels: how to reduce the global concern
• Organ trafficking problem and policy solution
• Cultural issues and their solutions in project management
• Transforming the Texas plant: possible solutions to the problems
• Nursing understaffing and evidence-based solution
• Critical thinking to solve hard problems
• Healthcare disparities and the ways to overcome them
• Pressure injury prevention: evidence-based solution
• Nursing stress solutions: benefits and support
• The problem of violence in nursing and its solutions
• What is the best way to stimulate economic growth?
• Decision making process in management: problem solving
• Pressure ulcers issue and defense of solution
• Land pollution and ways to minimize pollution in the US
• Vancouver’s housing crisis and solution
• The problem of stress and solutions for working students
• Seven ways to find help in starting a business
• Courtelaney Pass police department: potential problem solutions
• The problem of plagiarism, its reasons and solutions
• Ways of managing conflict
• Political corruption and how to address it
• Low wages and inequality problem and its solutions in the USA
• Child abuse and ways for its elimination
• The problem of infant mortality issue in India: possible solutions
• Domestic violence problem and the ways to overcome them
• Ways of avoiding cross-cultural miscommunication
• Risk incidence solution to the problem of substance use disorder
• Is assisted suicide a humane solution?
• Successful ways of preventing crime by Blundell
• Iron seeding oceans: global warming solution

Thank you for reading this article! Hopefully, these topics will help you write your problem-solution essay. Also, don’t forget to send this article to your friends, who might find it useful!

Further reading:

• 182 Free Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics
• 200 Creative Topics for Opinion Essays
• 180 Excellent Evaluation Essay Topics
• 140 Classification Essay Topics and Ideas
• 150+ Excellent Narrative Essay Topics
• 260 Good Descriptive Essay Topics and Writing Tips
• 135 Creative Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips
• Prewriting for Problem Solution Essays: Thoughtful Learning
• Structuring Your Essay: Solent University
• Analyzing Community Problems and Solutions: The University of Kansas
• 10 Major Challenges Facing Public Schools: Public School Review
• Major Issues in Education: 20 Hot Topics: Trade Schools
• The 10 Biggest Challenges Businesses Face Today (and Need Consultants for): Hiscox UK
• How to Overcome Financial Stress and Improve Finances: Bank of America
• The Most Important Health Problems (and Why They Matter): Harvard
• 5 Health Problems You’re Actually Not Too Young For: John Hopkins Medicine
• 10 Health Problems Related to Stress that You Can Actually Fix: WebMD
• Top 25 Environmental Concerns: Conserve Energy Future
• All Our Fights: The Humane Society of the United States
• The 7 Biggest Problems Facing Science, According to 270 Scientists: Vox
• Problems that Face Urban, Suburban, and Rural Communities in America: Pew Research Center
• 14 Major Tech Issues & What Can Solve Them: Built In
• Five of the World′s Biggest Environmental Problems: DW.com
• Top 10 Most Common Health Issues: University of Rochester
• Against the Environment. Problems in Society/Nature Relations: Frontiers
• Business Financing Problems: Chron.com
• Social Issues and Community Interactions: The National Academies Press
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It’s not a secret that our health largely depends on nutrition. A balanced and wholesome diet improves our immune system. It lowers the risk of getting sick and makes us more productive. But if we don’t eat right, our overall well-being and performance worsen. You see, nutrition topics are more...

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Problem-Solution Essay Topics: Effective Strategies to Tackle Modern Challenges

Writing is one of the most important skills a student can develop, as it is essential in many academic and professional situations. However, sometimes choosing a problem solution paper topic can be difficult. Notably, many students face a creative block when writing research papers.

The text provides valuable easy problem-solution essay topics by listing essay topics with problems to write about. It shows how to structure an essay consistently and propose solution essay topics. A clear understanding of current challenges and potential solutions will prepare students to produce high-quality, relevant, and outstanding writing problem and solution essays in various situations.

How to choose a good problem solution essay topic?

Choosing the right topic to write an essay on can be difficult because you need to be creative and have a basis for discussing the issue. One way is to look for topics that present problem and solution essays that allow a deeper analysis of the topic under discussion.

To select ideas for problem-solution essays, it is essential to consider their topicality and social relevance and conduct preliminary research to identify the main arguments and opinions on the topic. Also, choosing essay topics you know and are motivated to write about is important. This makes text creation more fluid and consistent.

Finally, achieving good results requires thinking about ideas for a problem solution essay, pros and cons, and researching and presenting possible solutions to the identified problems.

Economic issues

Economics is a vast and complex science. It’s about producing, consuming, and distributing goods and services. However, the problems and challenges affecting the economy are many, and it is essential to focus on some of the most critical problem and solution essay topics:

Problem: Economic inequality around the world:

• Solution #1: What steps must we take to implement a progressive tax system that taxes the richest?
• Solution #2: What are the best solutions to increase the minimum wage, and how can we get there
• Solution #3: What kind of government programs can be developed to encourage the generation of quality jobs?

Problem: Unemployment and its impact on well-being in big cities

• Solution #1:  What kind of state professional training programs can impact the unemployment rates the most?
• Solution #2:  How can the government incentivize companies to create local jobs?
• Solution #3:  How can the education system be expanded to incorporate more skilled professionals?

Problem: Climate changes and environmental ethics:

• Solution #1:  How can countries invest in clean energy and green technology?
• Solution #2:  How can governmental institutions enforce stricter regulations for polluting companies?
• Solution #3:  In what ways can we encourage the use of renewable energy with government programs?

Problem: Public debt in First and Third World countries

• Solution #1: How can countries adopt fiscal austerity measures to reduce debt?
• Solution #2: Can sovereign wealth funds be created for better financial management?
• Solution #3: Is the possibility of increasing taxes to reduce the debt burden the best way to reduce public debt?

Problem: Market Concentration and how it compromises small businesses

• Solution #1: How can the government implement stricter antitrust Laws?
• Solution #2: How can the cities encourage new companies to enter the market?
• Solution #3: How can local media outlets increase the variety of media properties and gives small businesses a broader voice?

Political challenges

The political system is the basis of the social organization of a country. However, many issues and challenges affect the political system and, by extension, society. It is important to highlight some of the most solution topics and suggest creative solutions to address them.

Problem: Corruption and its long-lasting effects on politics

• Solution #1: Is it possible to have stronger enforcement actions against governments and corporations?
• Solution #2: How can we Improve fiscal transparency and accountability of political leaders?
• Solution #3: In which ways can we educate the public on the importance of an ethical political practice?

Problem: Inequality and pay gaps in big cities:

• Solution #1: How can governmental institutions invest in education programs that address social and economic inequalities?
• Solution #2: Is it possible to gradually increase the tax burden of the richest?
• Solution #3: How can congresses pass laws guaranteeing equality of gender, race, and sexual orientation?

Problem: Crime and lack of safety worldwide:

• Solution #1: How can big cities invest in crime prevention social programs?
• Solution #2: Which measures can society take to increase the punishment of criminal leaders and reduce the proliferation of illegal weapons?
• Solution #3: Is the creation of local employment connected to lower crime rates?

Problem: The representation of minorities in political contexts:

• Solution #1: How can we change the electoral reform to guarantee proportional representation?
• Solution #2: What measures can we take to ensure increased diversity of political representation?
• Solution #3: What immediate changes can we make to the referendum and the referendum system?

Problem: The decrease in civic engagement:

• Solution #1: How can different institutions invest in programs that promote education and civic engagement?
• Solution #2: What is the best way to establish communication channels between the government and the public for feedback and suggestions?
• Solution #3: How can we eliminate barriers to access to voting, including through the introduction of electronic and online voting?

Education system

Educational institutions are the foundation of any society, giving children and young people access to knowledge and opportunities that can influence their decisions and careers.

Check some solution topics:

Problem: Lack of Funds and how to deal with it:

• Solution #1: What are some ways to increase the education budget?
• Solution #2: How the creation of public-private partnerships can improve investments in schools
• Solution #3: How can the government provide resources for scholarship programs and other financial incentives?

Problem: Inequalities in access to educational opportunities

• Solution #1: How can institutions invest in educational integration programs to reduce inequalities?
• Solution #2: In what ways can society ensure access to quality education for all?
• Solution #3: How can companies encourage the development of new technologies and educational models that allow greater access?

Problem: The lack of Quality in Teacher Training

• Solution #1: How schools and universities can invest in teacher education and training through training and professional development programs?
• Solution #2: Should schools create mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the quality of teacher education?
• Solution #3: In what ways can public schools increase teaching incentives with competitive wages and benefits?

Problem: The rapid growth of curriculum gaps

• Solution #1: Should companies continue to review the school curriculum to ensure it meets current needs?
• Solution #2: In what ways can schools expand the range of complementary and extracurricular disciplines to fit the corporate market?
• Solution #3: How the government can encourage the development of new teaching methods.

Problem: The low involvement of parents in children’s education:

Solution #1: In what ways can the interaction between schools and parents through communication channels be stimulated?

Solution #2: How can schools provide parents with educational resources to help support their children’s school activities?

Solution #3: Should schools launch an awareness campaign on the importance of parental involvement in education?

Social problems

Social problems affect many worldwide and pose significant challenges for governments and society, including social inequalities, violence, and public health.

Problem: The outstanding growth of social differences nowadays

• Solution #1: How can political entities invest in public policies that promote income distribution and access to basic services?
• Solution #2: Should schools promote education and training programs that allow citizens to improve their economic situation?
• Solution #3: How can the government promote the creation of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for the most vulnerable people in society?

Problem: The correlation between urban violence and traffic congestion

• Solution #1:  Would implementing violence prevention measures work in bigger centers?
• Solution #2:  How can law enforcement improve the creation of well-trained and equipped security forces?
• Solution #3:  How can society start promoting dialogue and the peaceful resolution of disputes?

Problem: Public health and its lack of investment

• Solution #1:  How can public entities prioritize the investment in hospital infrastructure and training of medical professionals?
• Solution #2:  Would the incentive to research and development of vaccines and medicines impact the spread of some diseases?
• Solution #3:  Should we develop media campaigns encouraging healthy habits to prevent infections?

Problem: The urgency of environmental issues

• Solution #1: Should the government enact stricter laws to protect the environmental problems?
• Solution #2: How can companies invest in clean and renewable energy sources?
• Solution #3: How can the media encourage sustainable practices in businesses and homes?

Problem: The hurtful impacts of racism on everyday life:

• Solution #1: In what ways can schools promote anti-racism education aimed at reducing stereotypes and prejudices?
• Solution #2: How can companies establish positive policies for minority groups that guarantee equal opportunities?
• Solution #3: Should political parties increase black representation in leadership and politics?

Environmental issues

The environment is a major concern today, as human behavior directly affects its conservation and climate change . Check topics for a problem solution essays:

Problem: Excessive deforestation as an environmental issue

• Solution #1 : What kind of businesses can invest in reforestation and conservation of the remaining green spaces?
• Solution #2:  Should the government grant landowners who protect vegetation tax incentives?
• Solution #3 : In what ways can different companies promote the use of clean technology to avoid the emission of pollutants?

Problem: Water pollution and its consequences on public health:

• Solution #1:  How can the government introduce wastewater treatment and proper waste disposal in cities?
• Solutions #2:  Should law enforcement invest in monitoring and penalizing companies that dump chemical and toxic waste into bodies of water?
• Solution #3:  How can the media stimulate the population’s awareness to avoid improper garbage disposal?

Problem: The urgency of global warming awareness:

• Solution #1: How can implementing public policies to promote renewable energy sources help?
• Solution #2: Should companies seek alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
• Solution #3: Can universities invest in research that seeks solutions for the adaptation of species to climate change?

Problem: The growing threat of ground contamination

• Solution #1: How can new regulations limit the use of pesticides and other chemicals that harm soil health?
• Solution #2: How can local governments start promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and agroforestry systems?
• Solution #3: Should the implementation of rehabilitation programs in areas degraded by mining and other business activities be made?

Problem: The danger of extinction of protected animal species

• Solution #1: How can companies conserve habitats of endangered species and create protected areas?
• Solution #2: Should law enforcement regulate the trade in endangered species and fight the trade in wild animals?
• Solution #3: How can universities ask for investments in research and programs for animal reproduction?

Youth-related issues

Young people face many challenges and problems in life, both socially and emotionally. These problems can negatively affect personal growth and quality of life.

Problem: The growth of bullying and violence in schools

• Solution #1: How can the media promote prevention campaigns and awareness of the consequences of bullying?
• Solution #2: How can schools establish preventive measures such as the installation of cameras and increased inspection?
• Solution #3: Should schools offer psychological and emotional support to students who are victims of bullying?

Problem: The increase in depression and anxiety among young people

• Solution #1: How can schools develop awareness activities about mental disorders?
• Solution #2: Should non-profit organizations invest in public mental health policies?
• Solution #3: How can universities help create an initiative to promote youth entrepreneurship?

Problem: The high number of families facing financial difficulties

• Solution #1: Should schools promote financial education to help young people better manage their finances?
• Solution #2: How can companies offer professional training and internship programs to facilitate entry into the job market?
• Solution #3: How can universities help in the creation of an initiative to promote youth entrepreneurship?

Problem: Facing the difficulties in social integration after the pandemic

• Solution #1: How can schools promote social integration activities such as Sports, Culture, and Volunteer Programs?
• Solution #2: Should schools promote networking between young people from different areas?
• Solution #3: How can implementing actions that enable dialogue between young people and their families help?

Problem: Social pressure and self-esteem difficulties during young years

• Solution #1: How can students increase self-esteem and confidence by participating in activities encouraging decision-making and autonomy?
• Solution #2: How can schools establish self-help groups and group therapy?
• Solution #3: How can families promote school socio-emotional education to train socio-emotional skills?

Urbanization problems

Urbanization is the urban growth and development process with some challenges and problems. The main problems include urban sprawl, inadequate infrastructure, and social imbalance. Check the essay ideas and problem topics:

Problem: The lack of basic sanitation

• Solution #1: How can the cities invest in construction projects for sewage treatment and basic sanitation systems?
• Solution #2: Should Congress create public policies that promote planned and sustainable urbanization?
• Solution #3: In what ways can different businesses conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of basic sanitation?

Problem: The lack of urban mobility in big cities

• Solution #1: How can governments invest in quality public transport?
• Solution #2: How can universities conduct research that encourages the creation of cycle paths?
• Solution #3: Should businesses create policies to promote car sharing?

Problem: Housing access problems for low-income families

• Solution #1: Should the government create a policy for access to public housing?
• Solution #2: How can the media promote the formation of cooperatives and community associations of housing autonomy?
• Solution #3: In what ways can companies develop partnerships with the private sector to finance housing developments?

Problem: Pollution and its everlasting effects on health and the environment

• Solution #1: How can companies invest in renewable and clean energy sources?
• Solution #2: Should governments invest in implementing measures to control the emission of pollutants from vehicles and industry?
• Solution #3: How can education centers promote waste recycling in general?

Problem: The  precarious health systems in developing countries

• Solution #1: How can investment in public policies increase the supply of health services in urban areas?
• Solution #2: Should the media promote disease prevention and vaccination campaigns?
• Solution #3: How can non-profit organizations encourage the formation of agreements with private bodies to meet the needs of health services?

Problem Solution Essay Topics For Elementary School

In elementary school, students must develop their writing skills and understand the importance of discussing essential essay ideas. Writing problem solution essay topics

This is a great way to build these skills and allow students to solve complex problems and find practical solutions.

Below are 10 good problem-solution essay topics for elementary school students:

• How Can We Reduce Bullying in Schools?
• How to Improve Healthy Eating in Schools?
• How to Combat a Sedentary Lifestyle?
• How Can We Reduce Pollution?
• How Can We Encourage Children to Read?
• How to Improve the Inclusion of Children With Disabilities in Education?
• How to Reduce Social Inequalities Among Children?
• How to Improve Gender Equality – Can We Move Forward?
• How to Reduce Domestic Violence?
• What Can Be Done to Address Homelessness?

Problem Solution Essay Topics For Middle School

School is a critical phase in a student’s life, during which skills must be developed to prepare them for the academic and professional future.

Below are 10 topics for problem solution essays for school students:

• The Impacts of Positive Body Image on Teenagers’ Lives
• How to Improve Sex Education in The Educational System?
• How to Reduce Drug Use Among Young People?
• How to Encourage Physical Activity Among Young People?
• How to Reduce Social Media Platforms Addiction?
• Combating Sexual Assaults at School
• How to Promote Youth Entrepreneurship
• How to Improve the Quality of Public Transport in Cities?
• What Can Be Done to Reduce Health Problems?
• What Can Be Done to Reduce Students’ Anxiety and Stress?

Problem Solution Essays Topics For High School and College Students

High school is a crucial time in a young person’s life. By learning new skills, students are better prepared for the challenges and opportunities in their future careers and academic world.

Check some problem-solution essay topics for college students and high school students:

• How Do You Promote Diversity Among College Students?
• Reducing Plastic Pollution in the Seas and Oceans
• How Can We Increase the Economic Empowerment?
• How Can Artificial Intelligence Transform Education?
• How to Solve the Problem of Inaccessibility in Cities?
• How to Encourage Young People to Participate in Politics?
• How Can We Create a More Sustainable World?
• How Do We Address the Rise in Childhood Obesity?
• How Can Effective Anti-corruption Measures Be Implemented?
• How Can Technology Help Preserve Indigenous Cultures?

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• A Research Guide
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• 35 Research Paper Problem Topics & Examples

35 Research Paper Problem Topics & Examples

Read also: How to do a research paper and get an A

• Social media, blackmailing and cyberbullying
• The Incels and the threat they pose
• Can you help if your friend seems to have depression?
• Codependent relationships: how to get out?
• Dealing with narcissists you can’t just forget about
• When interrupting the personal life of other person can be justified?
• Living through the loss
• The phenomenon of “friend zone”, what can be done with it?
• Overcoming the culture clash
• Helping homeless people and resocializing them
• Fighting drug selling in schools and campuses
• The problem of drunk driving
• How to rise from the bottom of the social hierarchy?
• Dehumanizing people in prisons
• Preventing human trafficking
• Making healthy lifestyle a desired choice for the people
• Improving the ecology of your hometown
• Online data mining: how can we prevent it?
• Gender discrimination and sexism
• The problem of global hunger
• Underemployment and unemployment
• Balancing safety and the right to have private information
• Manipulative advertising
• Teaching children to spend more time offline
• Cheating at schools and colleges
• The problem of corruption
• The choice of religion for the children from religious families
• Modern beauty standards and positive body image
• Self-esteem issues
• Traffic problems: how to avoid traffic jams in your hometown?
• What can be done right now to reduce pollution?
• Money management on personal scale
• Strict dress code at schools and in the companies
• Overloading with information in the modern society
• Enhancing the quality of family life

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Problem Solution Essay Topics

In case you are struggling with problem solution essay topics for your university, have a look at the list below and you will definitely find something to your liking. The topics are divided into several categories:

• Relationships
• Sports activities
• Life in College
• Family relationships
• Transport and driving

All you have to do is choose the topic you like and modify it a little to better fit your own situation. Once you have chosen the best problem solution topic, you can use our article ‘How to Write a Problem Solution Paper’ as a step-by-step guide.

Problem-Solving Essay Topics

The first category in the list of problem-solving essay topics is relationships. Students frequently receive a task to prepare problem-solving papers on similar topics.

• How to help a person with depression?
• What is the solution to a problem of manipulation and domination over people?
• Design a plan of helping a friend who keeps making the wrong choices.
• Does texting worsen face-to-face communication?
• Is it possible to move out of ‘friend zone’? Do you have to do it at all?
• How to help your friend end a failed relationship?
• Many young modern people do not know what a true relationship is. Write a problem solution paper.
• How does a woman show a man that she likes him? How to make the first step without being annoying? Design a brief guide.
• Discuss the topic of racism and discrimination using the problem-cause-solution scheme. Explain what the society has to do to finally solve these issues.
• How can people from different cultural and social backgrounds learn to understand each other and coexist peacefully?
• How to make distinctions between groups less severe?

Problem Solution Paper Basics

Prior to writing problem and solution articles or papers, design a brief outline in which you will sketch the main components of the paper. In other words, you should already know the answer to the question, ‘What is the problem and solution?” Include in your outline the components below:

• A vivid description of the problem
• Find a solution
• Explain why this solution is the most optimal
• Consider alternative solutions and explain why your option is more appropriate

Problem/solution papers on social issues can be dedicated to the following topics:

• How can we alleviate poverty?
• What are the practical ways of helping the homeless people?
• Should the society look for ways to prevent teen pregnancy?
• Why do people drive intoxicated and who is responsible for their deaths?
• How can we persuade teens not to drive after drinking?
• What are the pros/cons of divorce?
• Is Divorce a Solution?
• What kind of help do children from broken homes need to study well at school, build strong relationships with people, and have successful marriages in the future?

Below is the list of problem-solution research topics that are appropriate for a long paper because there is more than one problem-solution pattern to take into consideration.

• What governmental policy is necessary to fight racism?
• What can a society do to help the victims of family violence?
• Is it possible to combat poverty if the welfare system is changed? How exactly should it be changed?
• How to react to illegal immigration?
• What should be done to end gun violence?
• What is a successful rehabilitation program to integrate former convicts into the society?
• How to guarantee high-quality healthcare to all people in the world?
• Should the world strive for higher literacy rates?
• How to stop human trafficking?
• How can we reduce the negative effects of violence in media on children?
• Can people be persuaded to give up habits that destroy their health, such as smoking, eating junk food, and consuming too much alcohol? How to encourage them to eat a balanced diet?
• Freedom of speech vs. insults and abuse. How to control their emotions?
• How to develop good bicycle and pedestrian facilities in your home city?
• Should celebrities complain about excessive public scrutiny?
• Discuss the issue of data mining. How should society react to the fact that their internet footprint is used by advertisers, credit rating agencies, and even employers?
• How can governments cut unemployment?

Problem Solution Speech Topics on Sports Activities

Sport is the source of numerous problem solution speech topics because sports activities are an integral part of any society. Choose from the list below to prepare strong problem-solving paragraphs for your speech.

• Should we limit steroid use among sportsmen? Explain your response.
• Do colleges have to pay their athletes? Why?
• Is there an effective way to handle business, education, and athletics in a college?
• Is excessive training of young athletes dangerous? Support your response with examples.
• Choose your favorite sports and describe the easiest way to learn it.
• What are the leadership skills of a good coach? How do they motivate their team?
• What does your local soccer team’s coach do to improve the effectiveness of the players? What should be done to encourage the fans to support them more actively?
• What is your favorite sport? How can you become an excellent player in that sport?
• Are sports media effective in the way they cover your favorite sports? How can they improve? Is some degree of bias acceptable for sports announcers?
• What games should sports networks cover?
• Do interviews make sports programs more interesting? Do you like to watch sports features?
• Imagine your favorite teams lost a big game. How should the coach or team members manage the interview? Should they prepare beforehand?
• Sometimes losses cannot be avoided. How can players prepare themselves?
• Why do retirements or major injuries take a toll on players’ well-being? What should they do to avoid depression?
• How much would you pay the players of your favorite game? Should the salary be differentiated based on the contribution of a player?
• The money teams make is sometimes huge. How should owners and players share it?
• Can sportsmen prevent injuries?
• Some parents or coaches put too much pressure on kids. How can we stop them? Where can kids seek help?
• What is your favorite sports venue? Why do you like it? How can it be improved?
• How would you improve the coaching of your high school team? If no improvement is necessary, what are the qualities of the coach that you appreciate the most?
• Playing sports or watching it: which is better?

Problem-solving essay topics on college life are also complex, so you should be able to write an interesting essay.

• How can students obtain a college education with minimal debt?
• What policies should be implemented to make college affordable?
• How to increase students’ effectiveness?
• Do excellent grades matter?
• Why do students procrastinate? Should they fight procrastination?
• The dangers of ‘Freshman 15’ and how to avoid them.
• How to eat a healthy diet and stay in shape when the workload is enormous?
• How to make students more physically active?
• How to find a perfect balance between studying, work, and personal life?
• What are the consequences of sleep deprivation?
• How to get on well with roommates?
• How to convince your parents that you can handle living on your own?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of independent life?
• How to calm down your dorm neighbors if you need to study for exams?
• Is it possible to maintain long-distance relationships when you study in college?
• Imagine you have a suicidal roommate. How can you help him/her?
• What should be your priorities when choosing a major?
• How to choose the college that suits you best?
• How do you calm yourself down if you do not get the scholarship (college admission) you were hopping for?
• How to successfully pass a test?
• How to make lectures interesting?
• How to encourage students to participate in college social and political life?
• Is college a safe place?
• How report cases of sexual assault on campus?
• Should colleges inform parents about their children’s grades?
• How can you help a student whose grades are getting worse?
• How to manage stress in college?
• What should freshmen do to fight homesickness?
• Suggest a course for students to teach them effective money management.
• Should there be more programs to support people who want to study in college?
• Nowadays, there is a trend to underestimate college education, especially after the stories of people like Steve Jobs or Bill Gates. Does college education matter at all? Can you become successful without a degree?
• The pros/cons of joining a sorority/fraternity.

Problem and Solution Topics for the Discussion of Education

If you have to choose problem and solution topics for the discussion of education, do not hesitate to consult the list below. Narrow down the scope to analyze the situation in your country or town.

• How to help children whose performance deteriorates get back on track?
• What should schools do to alleviate the problem of child obesity?
• How to guarantee high-quality education for children with special needs?
• How can school management raise funds for sports and art programs?
• How to deal with students who misbehave?
• Suggest a plan for improvement of programs for talented kids.
• Discuss the pros and cons of homeschooling. How can such kids be prepared for college life?
• Do nationalized tests keep measuring the effectiveness of learning?
• Is there a way to discourage cheating during exams?

Family Relationships

If you would like to explore family relationships in your paper, here are the topics for you.

• Is parental control over children’s use of media a violation of privacy?
• Who is responsible for child obesity: parents or society?
• How to explain to parents that pushing children to make achievements in education, sports, and arts too much is detrimental to their psychological wellbeing?
• Is adoption always a good option?
• Family Value
• How can families who have children with mental disorders be supported?
• What is the best way for parents to teach their children good financial management techniques?
• How should parents discipline their children?
• How to encourage honesty in a family?
• Is religious education important? How can parents teach their children a religion without limiting their freedom of choice?
• How do parents notice their child has suicidal thoughts?
• Is it right for parents to ask their older kids to look after the younger ones?
• How should parents deal with rivalry among siblings?
• How do siblings decide who takes care of their parents when they get old?
• Does having siblings make you less egoistic?

Best Topics About Transport and Driving

Here are some good topics on the theme of transport and driving.

• How can we improve training programs for inexperienced drivers?
• How to discourage people from texting when driving?
• Choose an area where parking is problematic and propose a solution to improve the situation.
• How to encourage a young person to be a responsible driver?
• Think about the last stressful driving experience and discuss what could have been changed.
• Public transportation is a viable solution to environmental issues. How can we encourage people to give up their private cars and use public transport more often?
• Private cars, public transport, and bicycles. Which one do you prefer and why?
• Analyze the education for drivers offered by your state. What could be improved?
• What can be done to prevent intoxicated people from driving?
• Describe your dream route. What transport would you use to get around?
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• How to Define a Research Problem | Ideas & Examples

How to Define a Research Problem | Ideas & Examples

Published on November 2, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on May 31, 2023.

A research problem is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to address in your research. You may choose to look for practical problems aimed at contributing to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge.

Some research will do both of these things, but usually the research problem focuses on one or the other. The type of research problem you choose depends on your broad topic of interest and the type of research you think will fit best.

This article helps you identify and refine a research problem. When writing your research proposal or introduction , formulate it as a problem statement and/or research questions .

Table of contents

Why is the research problem important, step 1: identify a broad problem area, step 2: learn more about the problem, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research problems.

Having an interesting topic isn’t a strong enough basis for academic research. Without a well-defined research problem, you are likely to end up with an unfocused and unmanageable project.

You might end up repeating what other people have already said, trying to say too much, or doing research without a clear purpose and justification. You need a clear problem in order to do research that contributes new and relevant insights.

Whether you’re planning your thesis , starting a research paper , or writing a research proposal , the research problem is the first step towards knowing exactly what you’ll do and why.

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As you read about your topic, look for under-explored aspects or areas of concern, conflict, or controversy. Your goal is to find a gap that your research project can fill.

Practical research problems

If you are doing practical research, you can identify a problem by reading reports, following up on previous research, or talking to people who work in the relevant field or organization. You might look for:

• Issues with performance or efficiency
• Processes that could be improved
• Areas of concern among practitioners
• Difficulties faced by specific groups of people

Examples of practical research problems

Voter turnout in New England has been decreasing, in contrast to the rest of the country.

The HR department of a local chain of restaurants has a high staff turnover rate.

A non-profit organization faces a funding gap that means some of its programs will have to be cut.

Theoretical research problems

If you are doing theoretical research, you can identify a research problem by reading existing research, theory, and debates on your topic to find a gap in what is currently known about it. You might look for:

• A phenomenon or context that has not been closely studied
• A contradiction between two or more perspectives
• A situation or relationship that is not well understood
• A troubling question that has yet to be resolved

Examples of theoretical research problems

The effects of long-term Vitamin D deficiency on cardiovascular health are not well understood.

The relationship between gender, race, and income inequality has yet to be closely studied in the context of the millennial gig economy.

Historians of Scottish nationalism disagree about the role of the British Empire in the development of Scotland’s national identity.

Next, you have to find out what is already known about the problem, and pinpoint the exact aspect that your research will address.

Context and background

• Who does the problem affect?
• Is it a newly-discovered problem, or a well-established one?
• What research has already been done?
• What, if any, solutions have been proposed?
• What are the current debates about the problem? What is missing from these debates?

Specificity and relevance

• What particular place, time, and/or group of people will you focus on?
• What aspects will you not be able to tackle?
• What will the consequences be if the problem is not resolved?

Example of a specific research problem

A local non-profit organization focused on alleviating food insecurity has always fundraised from its existing support base. It lacks understanding of how best to target potential new donors. To be able to continue its work, the organization requires research into more effective fundraising strategies.

Once you have narrowed down your research problem, the next step is to formulate a problem statement , as well as your research questions or hypotheses .

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If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

All research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them.

In general, they should be:

• Focused and researchable
• Answerable using credible sources
• Complex and arguable
• Feasible and specific
• Relevant and original

Your research objectives indicate how you’ll try to address your research problem and should be specific:

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

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Best 50 problem solution essay topics on web.

August 14, 2019

The problem and solution essay topics you find online have been used over and over again by most students. Every problem solution essay topics list has been downloaded tens of thousands of times. Chances are, your classmates will pick some of these topics as well. Do you want your research paper to have the same topic as the essays of three of your classmates? Probably not! We have a solution: our list of the best 50 problem solution essay topics in 2022. They’re updated frequently, and you can use them for free!

Don’t Know How To Write A Problem Solution Essay?

But before we get to the problem solution essay topics for college students, let’s discuss this type of assignment. In most cases, students don’t know how to write a problem solution essay. As its name suggests, the problems solution essay is a writing assignment where you need to find a problem relevant to modern society and then figure out ways to solve it. You need to use your critical thinking to find the best solutions and then explain academically why your solutions are the best. Remember, you need to be very accurate in your writing and support your statements with references. You may be able to write about just one solution if it is complex enough. However, for most issues, we recommend three solutions because this number works best with our proposed problem solution essay structure.

The Simple Problem Solution Essay Structure

The simple way to organize your problem solution essay ideas is by using the five-paragraph essay structure. Here is how it looks like:

• You start your problem solution essay with a captivating introduction that presents the problem (or the situation).
• Then, you write three body paragraphs, each discussing a single solution.
• You wrap everything up with a strong conclusion that reiterates the solutions and emphasizes why they are the best.

Now you see why we’ve advised you to find not just one solution to the problem, but three. If you have a more complex topic, like a breathing problem solution, you can write more than three body paragraphs. After all, there are at least five effective solutions to this problem that we can think of. And remember, always start your writing with a problem solution essay outline. You can create it in just 10 minutes by doing some research, and it will most surely prove to be invaluable. It will keep you organized and on topic – that’s guaranteed. Now that you know how to write a problem solution essay, it’s time to talk about topics.

Why Do You Need Our Problem Solution Essay Topics?

We know you’ve received a lot of different advice about writing problem solution essays. We agree, reading at least one good problem solution essay example is very important. It shows you how to organize your writing, how to present your problem and your solutions, and how to support your statements. However, we feel that good problem solution essay topics are even more important. Think of it this way: no matter how well you write, if the topic is boring, your audience will eventually get bored. It’s just a matter of time. But when you come up with amazing, captivating, and breathtaking topics for problem solution essay, your writing instantly becomes much more interesting.

Most people, including your professor, want to learn new things. They’re not interested in solutions for a simple cold problem. But they most surely are interested in solutions to the greenhouse effect – or in solutions to the obesity issue. And rest assured – there are plenty of topics even more interesting than these. Bottom line, if you want to impress from the moment you read the introduction and the thesis statement, your problem needs to pique the interest of your professor instantly. And you will get bonus points as a reward – guaranteed!

Get Free Problem And Solution Essay Topics Right Here

Remember that for each problem, you need to find at least three solutions and discuss them. You can discuss more than three if the problem is complex. However, you should avoid presenting just one solution. In most cases, this will make your professor think that you didn’t care to spend much time writing the essay. You may get penalized for this, so be aware.

And now, here are the 50 problem and solution essay topics 2022 you have been waiting for:

Problem Solution Speech Topics

• How to tackle police brutality in America.
• The best solutions that prevent suicides (the permanent solution to a temporary problem).
• How can we stop mass shootings?
• The solution to the illegal immigration problem.
• Here is how we can stop sexual abuse in schools.
• The policies that can stop child labor.

Problem Solution Essay Topics For College

• How can we solve the student loans problem?
• The best ways to control stress in college.
• College education can be affordable. Here is how!
• Substance abuse can be prevented on college campuses.
• How teachers can prevent students from cheating on exams.
• The best way to become a more efficient student.

Education Problem Solution Essay Topics

• Schools have the means to prevent suicides.
• The effective methods that prevent cheating in school.
• How can schools keep up with technology?
• Schools can eliminate bullying. Here is how!
• The solution to racial discrimination in the US education system.
• The solution to gender discrimination in the US education system.

Best Relationship Topics

• Here is how you can become confident in just three steps!
• The easy solutions to an abusive relationship.
• How can we solve the problem with overprotective parents?
• How can we stop sexting in high school?
• The best ways to move out of the “friend zone.”
• Helping a depressed friend may be easier than you think.

Social Problems Topics

• How can we eliminate racism in the modern world?
• Ways to deal with illegal immigrants on the border line.
• We can improve literacy in the United States.
• The simple solutions to the huge human trafficking problem.
• Divorce can be prevented. Here is how!
• Solutions to the homeless people problem in the US.

College Life Topics

• Here is how you decide on your major quickly.
• Do you have problems with your roommate? You can solve them!
• Here is how you instantly become an A+ student.
• Colleges can be safer: Real solutions.
• Why is college so expensive? Any solutions?

Crime Issues

• How can we solve the domestic violence issue?
• Cyberbullying can be prevented by making it a crime.
• The solution to out-of-control gangs in the United States.
• We can prevent racial violence. Here is how!
• Here is how we stop people from polluting the rivers.

Economic Problem Solution Topics

• Unemployment is not difficult to solve, actually.
• Ways to increase the tourism rate in California.
• The simple solutions to our waste problems.
• The simple way to reduce consumer debt in America

Health Issues

• Here is how you stop overeating sugar.
• Ways to prevent substance abuse in teenagers.
• How parents can easily promote sports to their children.
• Child obesity is a major problem, but it has a simple solution.
• The best alternatives to plastic surgery for cosmetic purposes.

Use Our Great Topics Today

The problem solution essay topics you choose for your academic papers are very important. You will write essays faster if you choose smart topics. You will get bonus points if the topics are interesting. You will not have to do extensive research if you pick a topic you know something about. Pick any topic on our problem solution essay topics list and use it for free . We are just happy to help!

It’s time to nail your grades! Get your 20% discount on the problem solution writing assignment with promo “ ewriting20 ” – and enjoy your college life!

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Are you seeking captivating problem solution essay topics and brilliant suggestions for your paper? If so, you have come to the right place. Every student in school or higher learning institutions can discover enticing subjects and problem solution essay ideas that help prepare an excellent assignment. The first step in creating an essay that will capture readers' attention is choosing a topic. You can find great subjects using this article's exemplary problem solution topics and propositions as inspiration. These themes are categorized in a way that helps you quickly identify problem-solution essay subjects that interest you. This blog post will discuss how to choose excellent topics and ways of streamlining writing processes for students. Don’t have time for writing? Order an essay at StudyCrumb and forget about looking for problem and solution examples for years. Everything is simple – just share details and get a perfect piece matching your instructions.

What Are Problem Solution Essay Topics?

Problems and solutions essay topics offer specific, substantial but manageable issues that can be properly researched and analyzed. They focus on locating existing problems and offering workable remedies. In other words, a problem solution topic allows students to explore the issue at hand and suggest potential solutions. In addition to being very instructive, problem and solution topics are also comprehensive. Working with such papers can be challenging, but anything is possible with appropriate methods and extensive resources. Moreover, there is a truly wide variety of topics, and learners can select from the ones they feel most comfortable tackling. For instance, social, economic, cultural, and technological topics give students insight into different problems to write about.

Characteristics of Good Problem Solution Essay Topics

First things first, there should be enough information to research a good topic for a problem solution essay . Next, it is crucial to select for analysis good problem and solution topics that you are familiar with. Below is a list of things to consider for your problem solution paper topics.

• The subject should have a well-defined issue.
• It is advisable to employ unique vocabulary to engage your target audience.
• The topic itself must be clear and simple to understand.
• Its scope should be narrow enough.
• Lastly, the topic should contain a main idea.

How to Choose a Problem and Solution Essay Topic?

Thinking small is the key to designing good problem and solution essay topics. Choose a particular issue that will result in formulating attainable and unambiguous goals. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to choose a problem solution paper topic.

• Consider the audience: What requirements and interests do they have? Do they currently have any problems that they may be dealing with?
• Take into account the scope of the topic: It can be challenging to conduct an in-depth study on a too broad topic. On the contrary, the audience might not find the issue fascinating or pertinent if it is too narrow.
• Assess available resources: Do you have access to enough information? Are the sources trustworthy and current? Understanding the materials available might assist in deciding whether the subject is appropriate for a problem solution essay.
• If you still find it hard to decide on a subject, ask your professor for help.

Problem Solution Essay Topics List

The best problem solution essay topics adequately present the argument and provide a comprehensive solution. Here are examples of ten best problems and solutions topics you can explore.

• Ways of imparting financial education among youngsters.
• Can the practice of self-defense lessen violent action?
• How do managers handle external and internal disputes in organizations?
• In universities, sexual assaults against women are frequently reported. What can we do to mitigate this issue?
• The best method for companies to alleviate logistics issues.
• Does enforcing gun laws prevent mass shootings?
• Ways of stopping drunk driving.
• How do we motivate individuals to adopt kids in the real world?
• How protected areas save species from becoming extinct.
• Using e-learning to cut education expenses.

Good Problem Solution Essay Topics

Good topics for a problem and solution essay should have a workable solution or a strong implementation plan. The most engaging and intriguing articles should focus on specific issues because such an approach will provide well-articulated answers. Here is a short list of good ideas for a problem solution essay you can draw inspiration from.

• What steps can you take to dispel myths about feminist campaigns?
• How can the negative lifestyle impact of video games on children be reduced?
• What measures can be taken to stop COVID-19 from spreading?
• How might families help in promoting a positive body image among kids?
• What are some ways in which blogging can be improved?
• How issues may be solved at work effectively.
• Is it possible for a middle-aged person to change their job path? What can they do to achieve this?
• How do I assist an individual who is depressed?
• What steps should be taken to solve the texting-while-driving issue?
• Is it appropriate to hold parents accountable for their child's bad lifestyle? What steps may be taken to avoid this issue?
• Which strategies work best in lessening deception in real estate transactions?
• How to handle your spouse's unreasonable expectations.
• What steps may be taken to reduce or stop poverty?
• Addressing flooding problems through erecting dams in high-risk areas.
• How can we encourage more healthy standards of beauty?

Easy Problem Solution Essay Topics

Proposing a solution essay topics is a difficult task in general. However, if you want to concentrate on easy problem and solution essay topics, the following propositions will work wonders for you.

• How do you deal with an envious partner?
• What steps may be taken to stop child labor?
• How confirmation bias affects the ability to solve problems effectively.
• The impact of video games on an individual's capacity for problem-solving.
• Steps that may be taken to boost participation at your preferred athletic event.
• How do you maintain a successful marriage?
• What modifications to the traffic regulations could be made to improve driving?
• What is the best method of handling manipulative and overbearing individuals?
• How can you improve the quality of life in your neighborhood?
• What alternative approaches are there to marijuana use besides making it legal?
• How can you simplify the process of creating a great image of yourself?
• What are some healthy weight-loss options?
• How can you maintain hydration without indulging in calorie-dense, sugary beverages?
• What is the best way of eradicating poverty through wealth redistribution?
• How should parents explain to their children that Santa Claus is a myth?

Interesting Problem and Solution Essay Topics

An interesting problem solving essay topics may spark discussions that last an hour or longer and provokes everyone around to participate in them. Furthermore, readers are more motivated to read writings on such engaging themes. Below is a list of interesting problem/solution essay topics you can choose from.

• How can parents approach their kids' use of social networking sites?
• How should a nation handle the problem of unauthorized immigration?
• Can we stop rise of bigotry and prejudice?
• How can society support marriage while preserving people's right to choose their sexuality freely?
• How might parents stop their children from abusing drugs?
• Ways in which young-age marriage can be used to combat social issues like adolescent pregnancies.
• Addressing the problem of sexual abuse in colleges and universities.
• What should be done to reduce gambling tendencies among students?
• How do married couples improve their relationship?
• Prevalence of domestic violence against both genders.
• The risk posed by global warming is considerably more present today.
• Why are teenagers abandoning their studies in great numbers?
• How do teaching styles influence students' ability to solve problems?
• Absenteeism issue might be resolved using Holmes' method.
• How do organizations utilize digital platforms in advertising their products and services?

Funny Problem Solution Essay Topics

An incredible method of engaging readers in your problem solution topics is making them sound amusing. Here are a few insightful and fun problem solution essay topics you might focus on.

• What benefit does having your phone robbed have?
• Why does your partner whine so much? How could it be improved?
• What enjoyable online activities can a couple engage in together?
• How should your preferred junk food be made more nutritious?
• What exercise options are there for folks who are not athletic?
• Which methods will help learners save $100 in a month?
• What is it that can alter how individuals feel about you?
• How can you host a loud party without offending residents?
• Ways of helping people who struggle with low self-esteem.
• How can you encourage folks to use your pseudonym?
• How do we stop ourselves from making impulse purchases?
• Why is it that whenever I start giggling, I cannot stop?
• How do you inform your partner that their cooking is terrible without offending them?
• Ways in which 3D printing could fix the cooking issues in dormitories.
• Having the best sense of humor among your pals frequently keeps them from treating you seriously. What can alter how others perceive you?

Local Problem Solution Essay Topics

Writing about existing issues in your area is a fantastic addition to your problem solution research paper topics. Some of such problems facing your locality may include drug abuse, pollution, or crime. Here are problems and solutions essay topics that you can select.

• How to stop police violence.
• Techniques for managing customer debt.
• How can long-term joblessness be eliminated?
• Debt management strategies for student loans.
• What should your community do to lower medical costs?
• How graduates may be assisted in finding employment.
• What is the most effective strategy to halt traffic congestion?
• How can the birth rate be raised if it is low?
• Issues brought on by partisanship.
• How can the problem of inadequate car parking spaces be resolved?
• Ways in which youths should be prevented from illegal advertisements?
• Strategies used by governments to prevent fraud in politics.
• What steps can be taken to lessen the gender pay gap?
• Ways of increasing state surveillance.
• What should your municipality do to stop hate crimes?

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Problem Solution Essay Ideas for Students

The main priority of every learner when composing a problem solution essay is to choose interesting problem solution ideas after thorough consideration. Find a concept that you are passionate about. Select one of the many good subjects with a workable answer or a strong action plan. Although it may seem simple, a majority of students of various academic levels encounter difficulties when making this decision. The creative problem and solution essay ideas presented in this paper are meant to pique your curiosity. They will also motivate you to conduct further research and produce an outstanding essay.

Problem/Solution Essay Topics for Middle School

For many individuals, middle school is a particularly difficult time. Adolescents at this age feel like adults but are actually still youngsters. This issue and several other challenges contribute to an excellent collection of problem and solution essay topics for middle school. You are welcome to conduct your own study or choose one of the suggested ideas for problem solving topics.

• How can we get youngsters to use bike helmets?
• Methods of improving student performance in school.
• Strategies that can be used in combating oceans' rising acidity.
• Creative approaches used in delivering boring afternoon classes.
• How to get teenagers to appreciate learning in general and academics in particular.
• What are some ways to reduce the effects of greenhouse emissions caused by transportation?
• Guidelines for caring for your pet without violating its rights.
• How to create comics that aid students in understanding complex ideas.
• Methods for lowering industrial noise pollution.
• What additional creative courses can be added to the curriculum at middle school to help students' minds grow?
• How can school settings be made less isolating?
• Should learners have unlimited discretion in choosing courses they take?
• How might society support and assist those who have autism?
• How should parents prepare their middle schoolers for financial responsibility before they enter college?
• What can educators do to support female adolescents clinging to the idealized pictures they see on media platforms?

Problem Solution Essay Topics for High School

High school students face a unique set of issues compared to middle school students, such as social life nuances. They may use these problems to prepare topics for a problem solution essay. Below is a list of problem and solution ideas that will streamline your essay writing process.

• How can instructors stop negative consequences of physical punishment?
• Why do high school students use drugs? What should be done about this?
• What are the best ways for students to successfully cover their educational costs?
• What should instructors do to ensure that learners gain the required knowledge?
• Many academic institutions have rigid uniform policies. Is it possible to be unique without going against dress codes?
• What can help learners who experience behavioral issues because of challenging home situations?
• Practical approaches to issues of cell phone use in class.
• Ways of stopping high school kids from procrastinating .
• The cost of attending college is continually rising. What is the most effective way to reduce costs?
• Secure methods that students can use to locate academic material on digital platforms.
• Techniques for managing societal pressure in schools.
• What strategies may students use in maintaining academic achievement while dealing with parental separation?
• Practical strategies for eradicating stereotypes from society.
• The issue of persistent student absenteeism and methods of dealing with it.
• How should teenage pregnancy rate be minimized?

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

College students deal with issues different from those of high school and middle school learners. You should write problem solution essay topics for college on subjects that exhibit your capacity for information processing and data synthesis. Think large and demonstrate your ability to tackle prevalent college problems. You can select from a wide range of college problem solution essay topics below.

• How to address racism in universities.
• What is the best method for evaluating learners' performance?
• How to assist first-year students in selecting the appropriate college courses.
• What can be done to encourage more students to enroll in colleges?
• Ways of stopping college students from participating in violent riots and demonstrations.
• In what ways can college students begin making money?
• Learning and hearing lectures can be more difficult in big lecture halls. What steps can colleges take to address this issue?
• How can academics change the unfavorable perceptions that undergraduates have of them?
• How to stop college students from participating in violent protests and riots.
• What can be done to promote the mental well-being of students?
• Ways in which academics change unfavorable perceptions that undergraduates have of them?
• What is the most effective strategy for handling bullies in colleges?
• How to bridge the gap between affluent and low socioeconomic students.
• Methods of maximizing web-based learning during a lockdown.
• What should be done to stop college students from pursuing romantic relationships?

Problems and Solutions Topics by Subject

You can explore many unique problem solution topics. When approaching a solution essay, you will be barely able to exhaust these ideas. Several more subjects, like technology and science, may be investigated in addition to the ones already mentioned. These unique suggestions will grab your curiosity and motivate you to research an outstanding problem solution paper topic. Problem-solving essays pose an issue and challenge you to come up with the best answer. This section gives an insight into different problems and solutions topics by subject.

Problem Solution Essay Topics on Science

There are many problem solution research papers in the field of science since scientific processes are convoluted and plagued with problems. The quality of an individual's life can improve or deteriorate due to advancements in this discipline. If scientific subjects interest you, look at the following ideas for problem solution essay.

• How can researchers obtain more financing for research?
• What is the most effective technique to spread scientific knowledge to a broader audience?
• How can scholars be motivated to conduct experimental studies?
• Ways in which people can be inspired to stay employed in scientific fields.
• How can prejudice against studies be removed?
• Methods of improving research paper outcomes.
• What remedies are available to stop the ozone layer from thinning?
• How might the use of genetic engineering help food supply?
• What changes can be made to the peer review process to make it more effective?
• How stem cells can be used to cure disease.
• Reducing global waste through the use of nanotechnologies.
• What technological advancements are necessary to lessen the likelihood of overpopulation on Earth?
• How might the placement of microchips in a person's brain assist those who are paralyzed?
• Using science to address the issue of alcohol addiction.
• Scientific breakthroughs that could prevent a global environmental crisis.

Read more: Science Research Topics  

Psychology Problem Solution Essay Topics

Issues related to psychology are widespread in modern society. The field has a ton of excellent options for developing problem-solution essay topics. Use one of the following ideas for problem solution essays regarding human thoughts, emotions, behavior, and mind.

• How can customers develop their critical thinking skills?
• How can people use apps to cope with anxiety and psychological illness?
• How parents and educators assist students in managing depression.
• Suicide is becoming a big issue for youths. What mitigating steps can we take regarding this?
• How can one determine whether a memory is accurate?
• Many adolescents still experience bullying online, despite multiple efforts. What assistance can society offer?
• How can we provide elders with social interaction opportunities they may require?
• What would be a decent method aimed at preventing parents from pressuring their kids to succeed in school?
• Posttraumatic stress disorder is prevalent among people who undergo trauma. How can this condition be addressed?
• Addiction deprives people of their ability to make constructive contributions to society.
• America's psychological health is in poor shape. How can we improve it?
• Ways in which mental trauma associated with anorexia can be managed.
• How do educators assist young people who struggle with social skills?
• What actions may parents take aimed at assisting their children in case of a new epidemic?
• Continuous stress affects sleep quality. What methods can make it better?

View more: Psychology Research Paper Topics  

Cultural Problem Solution Essay Topics

A group of individuals who share certain knowledge, habits, and beliefs is said to have the same culture. You would likely concur that it is a crucial aspect of mankind. That is why instructors frequently provide cultural ideas for a problem solution essay to research. Here are a few problem solution paper ideas that you can adopt.

• How can individuals gain an appreciation for diverse cultures?
• What are the cultural management issues that arise with a multicultural staff?
• Best approaches to promote cross-cultural interaction.
• What potential remedies are there for consumerism?
• Strategies that can be used in advancing cultural diversity in businesses.
• Healthcare disparities based on race and culture.
• What methods can be used to lessen or stop cultural appropriation?
• Steps that may be taken to lessen societal effects on the media's idealized body image.
• Remedies that exist to address ageism.
• Development of cultural relativism and a decline in ethnocentrism.
• Ways of dealing with media propaganda.
• Culture wars are a significant source of conflict.
• Globalization's potential effects on a country's culture.
• Actions that could be taken to lessen adverse effects of the fast fashion sector on consumerism.
• Media and other outside cultural influences destroy national cultures.

Political Problem Solution Essay Topics

Politics is a topic that all people are concerned about. Your acts and inactions will, in one way or another, affect the state of your nation. There is no denying several issues plagues today's politics. If you are searching for topics to write a problem solution essay on politics, look no further. Here is a selection of exciting problem topics for an essay.

• How can human trafficking be stopped legally?
• How can more people be encouraged to cast ballots during elections?
• Ways of avoiding political confrontations.
• What steps should be taken by governments to reduce post-election violence?
• What should governments do to increase the availability of fresh, nutritious meals?
• Actions that the government should take in addressing assimilation problems for immigrants.
• Ways in which legislation restricts sources of funding used by democratic figures.
• What can states do to enhance the lives of disabled people?
• Techniques for preventing piracy.
• Sexism in international politics.
• What kind of situation has the biggest impact on voting behavior?
• Is limiting immigration an honest approach to boosting wages?
• Ways in which diplomacy can be used in lessening military aggression worldwide.
• How can laws and regulations improve the sustainability of the food sector?
• What methods may sub-Saharan nations use to run their economies independently of international aid?

>> View topics: Topics in Political Science

Problem Solution Essay Topics for Business

When running a company, many problems can arise - for instance, marketing tactics or cybersecurity. If you are interested in business, you can pick numerous topics for problem solution essays. Below is a list of problem ideas for your essay that focuses on solving problems.

• What can we do to improve job satisfaction?
• How can innovation be achieved without raising prices?
• Ways of stopping shoplifting in a mall.
• Individuals with fixed incomes and sizable cash reserves are negatively impacted by inflation. How is it to be prevented?
• Many businesses collapse during the first year of operation. How can governments guarantee their longevity?
• Low consumer volume and financial difficulties could be the outcome of poor marketing. What may be done to enhance a standard marketing plan?
• How can you distribute limited resources most effectively?
• Coping mechanism for stress in workplaces.
• How do you establish a competitive advantage in a crowded market?
• Methods of boosting productivity in organizations.
• How can individuals prevent themselves from making bad investments?
• A financial crisis may result in widespread job losses. How can downturns be avoided?
• How companies should convince individuals to utilize performance metrics.
• Staff turnover has a direct impact on corporations. How do we minimize it?
• What should policymakers do to help small businesses in the event of another pandemic?

View more: Business Research Paper Topics  

Problem and Solution Essay Topics on Education

Several problems with the school system need fixing to improve the overall quality of education. You will find some topics for problem solution essay in the list below. These problem cause solution topics are clear and straightforward.

• Many educational institutions do not offer sufficient sex education programs. How might the stigma associated with this issue be reduced?
• Measures that should be taken to deal with unruly and disobedient students.
• When studying a subject, people with learning disabilities could feel frustrated. What adjustments can schools make to meet their needs?
• How can academic institutions effectively support students with special needs?
• What techniques can be used to lessen cheating?
• What actions can the education system take to encourage diversity in schools?
• What are the shortcomings of the American educational system as it stands today, and how can they be addressed?
• How can learners be made interested in monotonous subjects?
• Approaches that schools may adopt to encourage teamwork.
• Ways in which students can use communication skills to handle bullying.
• How can educational institutions devote more resources to extracurricular activities?
• What ethical problems do universities face, and how can they be tackled?
• What should be done to make education more widely available?
• Ways in which educational establishments should protect students from minority groups.
• Steps that schools can take to minimize the rate of dropouts.

Read more: Research Paper Topics in Education  

Health Problems and Solutions Essay Topics

People frequently have trouble with their health, which is a crucial component of existence. As a result, this field serves as a solid source of problem solution paper topics. Below are health-related topics for a problem and solution essay.

• How do we motivate individuals to take part in clinical studies?
• The best way to look after cancer patients receiving treatment.
• What should be done to increase the number of Americans who enroll in health insurance?
• How can we assist those who are recovering from drug addiction?
• Actions we may take to prevent obesity among children.
• How can medical care be made affordable for everyone?
• Measures for reducing prevalence of cardiovascular disease in the community.
• Steps to address the growing health issues, including asthma, brought on by air pollution .
• Management strategies for speech disorders.
• How to provide enough oxygen for hypoxemia patients.
• Ways of preventing flu during winter.
• How people can be motivated to have regular health checkups.
• How do we make sure those who are sick seek out primary care? How can primary healthcare be made available to everyone?
• Schizophrenia is a challenging mental condition that significantly affects a person's life. What should society do to encourage people to get this condition treated?
• What steps may be taken to stop Alzheimer's disease development?

>> View more: Public Helth Research Topics

Problem Solution Essay Topics About Animals

Before people came into existence, animals already inhabited our world. Many species disappeared or went extinct over time because of human activity. Factory farming, the fur trade, and poaching are all problems that need to be fixed. If you are interested in this subject, consider investigating one of the following problem solution research topics. These animal problem solution essay ideas are clear and easy to implement.

• How can we save birds from hazards like high structures and wind farms?
• What could be done to curb animal hunting?
• How can we lessen water contamination, so that marine life is preserved?
• What steps can be taken aimed at ending the dog meat trade?
• How can the cost of veterinary care be reduced for all people?
• Do animals need more rights? How can this be put into practice?
• How will logging affect our environment? How can authorities stop this?
• Ways of preventing commercial initiatives that use animal testing.
• What steps must be taken to end the ivory trade?
• Initiatives that may be taken to make wild animals' habitats safer.
• How do we stop horse meat intake?
• How can we prevent wild animals from being used in circuses?
• The fur trade claims the lives of millions of animals. What should be done to stop this practice?
• Many animals are raised in cruel conditions where they are physically harmed or mistreated. What are the options for resolving this issue?
• Strategies that can be used to minimize poaching.

Environmental Problem Solution Essay Topics

Climate change is currently the most important environmental problem; however, it is not the only one. Yet more worldwide issues require attention, and students can use them for their solution essay topics. The following are problem essay topics for those who care about the environment.

• What actions are necessary to secure renewable energy sources?
• Natural catastrophes are caused by Earth's processes and negatively impact people's lives. How can we get ready for natural disasters?
• What initiatives can be made to avert a shortage of energy resources?
• An increase in UV radiation is caused by ozone loss. Along with other skin conditions, it causes cancer. How are we going to fix this issue?
• Food waste is a major environmental issue because it uses cropland and water. How do we minimize it?
• GMOs increase food output but may threaten biodiversity. What actions could be taken to address the issue?
• How can oil spills in water bodies be cleaned up more quickly?
• Home-based trash management techniques.
• How can governments encourage organic farming?
• Approaches used in preventing a rise in global temperatures.
• Ways of stopping ice caps from melting.
• What causes a global shortage of food resources? How can this issue be addressed?
• How to minimize consequences of inappropriate zoning and biodiversity?
• Using fluorinated gasses in freezers and hair care products significantly affects global warming. How may their negative effects on surroundings be reduced?
• Cleaning up trash costs a large sum of money. How can the littering issue be resolved and entirely eliminated?

More ideas: Environmental Science Topics

Problem Solution Essay Topics on Technology

Technology involves intricate and problematic processes. Just like in science, these issues can either enhance or worsen modern life quality, so problem solution research essay topics in technology are of current importance and investigating them can make one feel like being on the cutting edge of human knowledge. Besides, technology has a lot of various aspects and subfields, allowing for a truly extensive selection of research problems. Below are insightful ideas that you can consider for your problem solution essay topic.

• What should be done to minimize overdependence on technology?
• What precautions are available to stop cheating during online exams?
• Ways in which companies can protect users' confidentiality on social media.
• How can food technology be used to eradicate global starvation?
• Ways in which technological innovations can address drug dependency issues.
• What precautions can you take to keep your kid from developing a smartphone addiction?
• Given how swiftly technology develops, what remedies are available for annoying bugs?
• Ways in which assistive devices may be used to help kids with visual impairment.
• How can backup issues be resolved in companies?
• Ways in which intelligence officers can use social media profiles to arrest criminals.
• How can people coexist with robots at work without losing their jobs?
• How to make technology infrastructure in smart cities better.
• What are possible solutions for cybersecurity issues in cashless societies?
• Wearable technologies raise new privacy concerns. How should problems of body-borne computers be solved?
• What steps can be taken to prevent the loss of online data?

Browse through our blog for more essay topic ideas. Whether you need topics for an explanatory essay or cause and effect essay topics , we’ve got you covered. 

Bottom Line on Problem Solution Essay Topics

A topic for a problem solution essay can be a fantastic method to investigate a wide range of problems and develop original answers. Students can create a thorough plan to deal with the issue by examining it, figuring out its cause, and coming up with remedies. Problem and solution essay topic ideas can also aid pupils in honing their critical-thinking abilities and improving their comprehension of the world. Researching the best topics for a problem solution essay can be a terrific approach to changing the world if chosen with attention and consideration.

We are here to remind you that our academic writing services are at your disposal. If you require a high-quality, professionally written, and simply fantastic essay, we are just the ones to help.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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Home — Essay Types — Problem Solution Essay

Problem Solution Essay Examples

Choosing the right problem solution essay topics can make a significant difference in the quality of your work and your overall success.

The choice of your problem solution essay topics for college students is crucial because it sets the tone for your entire essay. A well-chosen topic not only makes your essay more engaging but also facilitates the research and writing process. It allows you to explore a subject you're passionate about while demonstrating your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Choosing a Problem Solution Essay Topic

Before we delve into the problem solution essay topics list, let's discuss some essential factors to consider when making your selection:

• Relevance: Choose a topic that is relevant to your course or field of study. It should align with your academic goals and interests.
• Feasibility: Ensure that your chosen problem has a realistic solution. Avoid topics with overly complex or unsolvable issues.
• Significance: Select a topic that addresses a real-world problem or issue. It should be something that matters to your audience and society as a whole.
• Personal Interest: Opt for a topic that genuinely interests you. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing and make the essay more enjoyable for both you and your readers.
• Availability of Information: Check if there is enough research material available on your chosen topic. Having access to credible sources is essential for building a strong argument.

15 Unique Problem Solution Topics for Essay

Now that we've covered the importance of choosing the right topic, let's explore 15 unique topics for problem solution essay that you can consider for your next assignment:

• Combating Cyberbullying in Schools
• Reducing Food Waste: A Sustainable Solution
• Promoting Mental Health Awareness Among Teens
• The Opioid Epidemic: Finding a Path to Recovery
• Problems and Solutions of Procrastination Regarding Time Management
• Tackling Air Pollution in Urban Areas
• Overcoming the Digital Divide in Education
• Addressing Youth Unemployment
• Social Media is The Reason for Many of The World’s Problems and Solutions
• Combating Gender Inequality in the Workplace
• Bullying in Schools: A Comprehensive Approach
• Sustainable Agriculture: Feeding the Future
• The Aging Population: Meeting Healthcare Needs
• Curbing Plastic Pollution: A Global Responsibility
• Effective Parenting in the Digital Age

10 Problem Solution Persuasive Speech Topics

These problem solution persuasive speech topics are aimed at persuading the audience to consider and support specific solutions to pressing issues:

• Combating Online Harassment
• Addressing the Mental Health Crisis
• Tackling Childhood Obesity
• Ensuring Affordable Healthcare for All
• Solving the Student Loan Crisis
• Curbing Youth Unemployment: Job Opportunities
• Reversing Climate Change: Renewable Energy
• Implementing Sensible Gun Control Measures
• Supporting Food Security Initiatives
• Promoting Gender Equality in the Workplace

Selecting the right problem solution essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling and impactful essay. Remember to consider relevance, feasibility, significance, personal interest, and the availability of information when making your choice. Once you've chosen a topic from our list or been inspired to come up with your own, you're well on your way to crafting a thought-provoking essay that offers solutions to real-world problems.

A problem solution essay is an analytical piece of writing that describes a problem or issue and proposes well-researched, viable solutions. Students are often tasked with writing these essays, as they require critical thinking to develop a thorough understanding of the problem and present solutions supported by evidence. This guide will outline the key steps for writing an excellent problem solution essay, using a problem solution essay example and relevant analysis to illustrate the process. For more impactful guidance, explore analytical essay titles with a punch to spark creativity and precision in your writing approach.

Introduction to the Problem Solution Essay 

A problem solution essay identifies an issue or problem and aims to persuade readers that solutions exist to resolve it. The essay should outline the problem in the introduction, analyze its causes and effects, propose realistic solutions backed by research, recommend the best solution, and issue a call to action to implement the solution. Transitions should connect each section seamlessly. A strong conclusion reiterates the solutions and urges change.

Problem solution essays tackle current social, political, economic, or environmental issues facing society rather than personal problems. The writer’s aim is to bring awareness and understanding to the problem while convincing readers of the feasibility and necessity of the solution. If you’re looking for practical guidance, you can find problem and solution essay examples to further illustrate these concepts and improve your own writing.

Selecting a Topics for a Problem Solution Essay

Choosing an engaging topic is crucial to writing an interesting problem solution essay. The topic should be focused, address a current issue, and offer realistic solutions. Here are some productive categories to consider:

• Political, Social, or Environmental Issues

Examples include poverty, gender inequality, pollution, global warming, public health, etc. Provide well-researched data and expert analysis of the origins and development of the issue.

• Everyday Problems 

Topics like traffic congestion, lack of recycling, childhood obesity, high cost of college, boredom and stress in school, etc. connect with readers’ daily lives. Support causes and effects with surveys and statistics.

• Hypothetical Situations

Speculative topics imagine an unfavorable scenario like all energy sources disappearing or aliens attacking Earth. Explore imaginative preventative solutions supported by logic and reason.

Avoid overly broad or vague topics without clear solutions. Select issues that really spark your interest as your enthusiasm will show in your writing.

Components of a Problem Solution Essay

• Engaging Introduction. Open with a thought-provoking statistic, question, anecdote, or fact about the problem. Foreshadow the solutions and briefly state the call to action.
• Background on the Problem. Provide detailed facts, data, history, and context. Analyze the causes, effects, and current status through research. Use sources like academic studies, news articles, and surveys.
• Solutions Section. Brainstorm 2-3 attainable solutions. Logically analyze the pros and cons of each solution. Cite evidence on the feasibility or past successes of these approaches.
• Recommended Solution with Rationale. Choose one robust solution and argue convincingly why it is the best option based on your research in the previous section. Address opposing viewpoints.
• Persuasive Call to Action. Inspire readers to implement this solution through collective action. Describe specific steps readers can take. Share resources.
• Smooth Transitions. Use transition words like “First”, “However”, “Consequently”, “Therefore”, “On the other hand”, “For example”, “In conclusion” between ideas and sections.
• Impactful Conclusion. Restate the problem and solutions. Summarize your argument advocating for the best solution. End with a memorable final statement to motivate readers.

How to Write a Conclusion For problem Solution Essay 

Writing a conclusion for a problem solution essay involves summarizing the key points and providing a clear and compelling resolution to the problem discussed. Here are the three most important points to include in your conclusion:

Problem Solution Short Essay Example Analysis 

Here is an excerpt of a problem solution essay responding to the prompt : “Obesity is becoming an increasingly difficult problem across the globe. How can we combat this issue?”

> Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with rates doubling since 1980. A 2018 CDC study found that 40% of American adults are obese, causing chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer (Smith, 2019). We must take collective action to reverse this preventable health crisis through measures like sugar taxes, nutrition education, and access to healthy affordable foods.

> Implementing a sugar tax on sodas and junk food is an effective solution evidenced by results in countries like Mexico and Hungary where obesity rates declined after introducing taxes…[analysis of research studies]

This introduction hooks readers by stating a surprising fact about escalating obesity rates while foreshadowing solutions like a sugar tax. The background provides well-cited statistics demonstrating the scope of the problem through authoritative sources. The writer recommends the tax as the best solution based on concrete evidence. The sample essay follows the standard problem-solution structure and addresses the prompt appropriately.  

Problem Solution Essay Example

In this compilation, we present a selection of problem-solution essay examples . These essays offer practical insights into addressing various issues through persuasive arguments and proposed solutions. Explore these examples of problem-solution essays to grasp effective problem-solving techniques, innovative approaches, and persuasive writing strategies. If you’re looking for further inspiration, consider delving into i nsights into argumentative essay examples for additional guidance and strategies in crafting compelling arguments.

Problem Solution Essay: Additional Tips for Students

To summarize, here are some key tips for students writing problem solution essays:

✅ Select a focused, current issue for your topic with achievable solutions 

✅ Research extensively to understand the problem’s origins, effects, key stakeholders etc.

✅ Brainstorm innovative but realistic solutions supported by facts, statistics, expert data and case studies

✅ Recommend one solution using convincing evidence and address opposing viewpoints

✅ Persuade readers to take action through clear steps in your call to action

✅ Use transitions, precise language, and an organized structure

✅ Proofread carefully and check formatting requirements

By following these guidelines, students can produce compelling problem solution essays on topics that really resonate with their interests. The professional structure and tips provided above will help tackle these academically challenging essays effectively.

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What is a problem solution essay?

An essay that identifies the problem or an issue, providing several ways to resolve it. A typical problem solution essay example is river pollution or youth gang problems. Include a description of a problem with statistical data or references. As a rule, a solution is offered with due analysis. All problems and solutions examples must include strong argumentation and references.

How to write a problem solution essay?

An introduction part must provide information about the issue and explain why it matters. Provide a list of solutions or mention a methodology. Good problem solution essay topics analyze the strengths and weaknesses of existing solutions by coming to a conclusion and a list of recommendations. Remember about references and backing up your argumentation with evaluation in the Conclusion part.

How do I choose a good topic for a problem solution essay?

Focus on a current issue that interests you and has viable solutions. Avoid topics that are too broad or have no clear remedies. Select locally relevant problems or hypothetical scenarios.

What makes a good thesis statement for a problem solution essay?

Your thesis should identify the problem and the solution(s) you will argue for in the essay. Keep it concise, focused, and clear.

What types of evidence should I use to support my solutions?

Reference studies, statistics, expert opinions, case studies, logical reasoning, analogies, and anecdotes that build a strong case for your solution

The most popular topics for Problem Solution Essay

• Gun Control
• Drug Addiction
• Women's Rights
• Postpartum Depression
• Illegal Immigration
• Gun Violence
• Teenage Pregnancy
• Consumerism
• Human Trafficking
• Domestic Violence

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The Definitive Guide to Writing a Problem Solution Essay

06 February, 2021

13 minutes read

Author:  Josh Carlyle

In this article, we cover the basics of problem solution essay writing. We will explain what a problem and solution essay is in academic and straightforward terms. We shall also cover the four essential components that make this essay coherent. With these four components in mind, we will offer guidance on the outline structure and provide some general writing tips on research and problem solving, as well as some topics and essay samples.

What is a Problem Solution Essay?

A problem solution essay is a staple of humanities and social science subjects. These essays cover a pressing issue, examine how it causes problems, and offer solutions to these problems. The topic for problem solution essay papers can be incredibly diverse. The problem could be local, regional, or global. It could affect a wide range of people or be part of the discourse on an arcane and obscure aspect of computing.

If you are wondering how to write a problem solution essay, look no further than its name. The core of a problem solution essay is in the title. In this type of essay, a problem is presented, and a solution is offered. Doing this well requires presenting the issue in an audience-appropriate way and then offering solutions that thoroughly negate any critiques of those solutions. 

4 Components of a Problem Solution Essay

In a problem and solution essay, the following aspects must be included:  

• The Situation: this opening part is where the foundation of the problem lies. It is not an introduction in the sense that you may be familiar with or an abstract that covers the entirety of your thesis. Rather, it is a short and straightforward briefing that will make a layperson familiar with the situation at hand.
• The Problem: this part provides specifics of the problem. Detailed dissections of evidence take place here; we’ll summarise those later in the evaluation section. 
• The Solution: this component covers push-back specific solutions you may encounter. Part of a correct answer is thinking of your opponents’ perspectives and ensuring that they address their assumptions and points.
• The Evaluation: in this section, it is crucial to write with brevity and wit; this will make your position memorable. Readers will often remember the last part of essays they read, so make sure it represents a microcosm of your essay as a whole. 

These components are the essence of the structure required in a problem solution essay. The actual structure you will work with will require a finer granulation of sections. For instance, in the solution section, the critiques will also need to have a review applied, demonstrating their lack of applicability or irrelevance. 

Problem Solution Essay Outline

The best guide for a problem solution essay outline is the four components mentioned above. Cover the situation, the problem, the solution, and then evaluate both or all sides of the story. 

To drill down further into the outline, you should have an introduction that will set out your paper’s structure. Then you should present the situation. Keep this section free from emotive language. Use it to ensure the reader has all the facts, and imagine that you want everyone reading the paper to be on a level playing field in terms of knowledge and framing of the problem.

In the problem section, you must explain why there is a particular issue. At this point in your essay, ensure that you do not leave the door open to other causes of the problem. Find ways to make the problem something that the reader cares about and wants to solve, but beware of assuming the reader is on your side simply because you’ve said some things and made some points. 

Once the situation has been explained, and the problem elucidated, present your solution. It  should use evidence, and you should be able to explain how it directly relates to the question.  Don’t use ad hominem attacks or go polemic. Unravel the problem with your solution. Take it to step by step and keep your writing composed.

In the evaluation section, you should find your argument’s weaknesses and the views that find fault with your solution.

How To Find Solutions to Your Problems

You can find solutions to your problems by researching them; someone will have asked the question before, or one very similar to it. You can talk to your peers and even conduct polls on social media to gauge the public’s position on various solutions. 

Another way of finding solutions include flipping your perspective. Take the position of the other side and see the world through their gaze. By putting yourself in the opponent’s shoes, you can see weaknesses in your ideas and perhaps adjust them to take on more relevance to more people or factor in an aspect that you had overlooked.

Ultimately, the best way to find solutions is to read and read some more. Try looking in your library if you prefer books to the internet, but don’t leave Google out of it. Using the search engine correctly, you can dig up all kinds of books, papers, and presentations that will be very useful in your studies.

Problem Solution Essay Topics

The list of problem solution essay topics is very long. As mentioned earlier, the problem can be a local issue, affecting a specific demographic or being universal. Regardless of the topic you choose, there are another million waiting for an answer.

To start you off, the climate crisis is an excellent area for debate. 

• How do we deal with stranded assets in the fossil fuel industry and financial sector? 
• What should the laws be surrounding new cars run on petrol and diesel? 
• How should electrification be carried out in developing nations? Is a carbon tax a viable way to reduce emissions? 

Other problem solution essay ideas might include social media’s effect on dopamine levels, gerrymandering in electoral districts, or the working week’s length. 

Problem Solution Essay Examples

Reading previous papers is a fantastic method to improve your grades. Study essays that get top marks and some of the ones which get lower marks. The difference will be apparent in their vocabulary, logic, and evidence. Read a few problem solution essay sample papers but don’t plagiarize them; always cite your sources. Here are a few examples to help you get started: 

https://www.eapfoundation.com/writing/essays/problemsolution/  

https://www.ieltsbuddy.com/problem-solution-essays.html  

Writing Tips for a Problem Solution Essay

An essay is a complex task to complete. That’s why it’s useful to break down the whole into several steps. 

Step one is to conduct some thorough research and planning. If you have free choice over the problem at hand, then start by brainstorming some groups you belong to and decide whether they’re officially mandated ones like a sports team or a club, or broader, like your sex, gender, nationality, or language grouping.

After this, jot down some issues in the groups. Are you struggling to manage the payment plan for your sports hall? Has there been an instance of bullying or shaming in your school? With the topic in mind, move onto research. 

When researching your topic, it’s always useful to remember that there is nothing new under the sun. It is almost definite that similar problems have arisen before, and most solutions already exist.

Then, conduct and compose a literature review on the topic. A literature review is an excellent addition to your essay as a standalone section. It helps to situate your issue within the world and builds relations to other similar problems. 

You may think you have nothing to say about the problem or find it hard to justify your opinion. Well, in the problem solution essay, your voice matters. Always try to back up what you’re saying through evidence and try not to stray into writing a polemic. Yet, passion and emotion are useful tools for framing the problem. Just try not to make these responses the whole essay.

As far as solving problems goes, you can use some general mechanics to come up with solutions. The following paragraphs will present some of these logical mechanics; feel free to use them in your writing:

• Add something new: this solution works when something is lacking. The problem may be a lack of funding, equipment, or motivation. The assumed problem when using this angle of attack is that there is a lack of resources available. Concrete examples of this could include more teaching assistants in education, longer opening hours at a library, or more significant legislation to protect the environment.
• Remove something: this is the inverse of the previous point. Inversing is a useful strategy for thinking about problems in general. If something is too crowded or too busy, it might be a solution to limit exposure to something and devise a solution. 
• Education: learning is a more specific aspect of ‘adding something’; it presupposes that a lack of information and awareness is the cause of the problem. If people had this knowledge, the theory goes that the issue would disappear or reduce because people could make informed decisions and correct their behavior.
• Enforcement: if something like school rules, or even the law, is being ignored, proper enforcement might be a solution. Enforcement has its own sets of problems. This angle is an excellent way to write an unfolding and varied essay as it requires lots of discussion around proper enforcement. Making people do things they don’t want to do is a tricky situation and is riddled with structural and psychological issues.
• Compromising: proposing compromise through mediation or bi-partisan effort is another complex solution. To work effectively, it has to involve people who possess robust negotiation techniques. But settlements happen all the time, so they’re a powerful solution to many problems. It may be useful to learn about zero-sum and relative issues to argue this case correctly.
• A change in leadership: leaders can become stale and cumbersome; they may get weighed down by responsibility and have a low tolerance for change. Although, many problems require systemic changes, such as the climate crisis. With an established leader in charge, progress could be slow as they may be blinkered by their position. In this case, they are proposing an election or vote of confidence as a solution that can break the deadlock and offer people a chance to voice their concerns through voting.

One could surmise that the problem and solution essay is an incredibly relevant style of writing. By dissecting an issue and coming up with solutions, you learn a skill that is useful in many careers and practices. But writing one effectively requires both passion and perseverance; writing about topics that move us, though letting the fire burn too brightly, can put readers off or lead them to ignore their blind spots. 

Follow the structures set out above and make sure to proofread your essays before submission. Finding a good editor is always a positive step; they can help to rephrase your words so that your argument comes across more fluently. 

Writing drafts is good practice, although not always possible due to time constraints. Ideally, you should work through two drafts before submitting a final piece; if the essay makes up a small part of your overall grade, adjust the drafting process accordingly. 

Write a Problem Solution Essay with HandmadeWriting

Problem solution writing has been speaking truth to power for millennia. HandmadeWriting loves seeking solutions as much as it loves a simple academic essay or lab report. It’s hard to become a good essay writer without getting critical at times. That’s why we pride ourselves on producing some of the most compelling content around. So be the next one to enjoy our writing and get an A+ for it.

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

• The Research Problem/Question
• Purpose of Guide
• Design Flaws to Avoid
• Independent and Dependent Variables
• Glossary of Research Terms
• Reading Research Effectively
• Narrowing a Topic Idea
• Broadening a Topic Idea
• Extending the Timeliness of a Topic Idea
• Academic Writing Style
• Applying Critical Thinking
• Choosing a Title
• Making an Outline
• Paragraph Development
• Research Process Video Series
• Executive Summary
• The C.A.R.S. Model
• Background Information
• Theoretical Framework
• Citation Tracking
• Content Alert Services
• Evaluating Sources
• Primary Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Tiertiary Sources
• Scholarly vs. Popular Publications
• Qualitative Methods
• Quantitative Methods
• Insiderness
• Using Non-Textual Elements
• Limitations of the Study
• Common Grammar Mistakes
• Writing Concisely
• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Footnotes or Endnotes?
• Further Readings
• Generative AI and Writing
• USC Libraries Tutorials and Other Guides
• Bibliography

A research problem is a definite or clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value question. In the social and behavioral sciences, studies are most often framed around examining a problem that needs to be understood and resolved in order to improve society and the human condition.

Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Guba, Egon G., and Yvonna S. Lincoln. “Competing Paradigms in Qualitative Research.” In Handbook of Qualitative Research . Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln, editors. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 1994), pp. 105-117; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.

Importance of...

The purpose of a problem statement is to:

• Introduce the reader to the importance of the topic being studied . The reader is oriented to the significance of the study.
• Anchors the research questions, hypotheses, or assumptions to follow . It offers a concise statement about the purpose of your paper.
• Place the topic into a particular context that defines the parameters of what is to be investigated.
• Provide the framework for reporting the results and indicates what is probably necessary to conduct the study and explain how the findings will present this information.

In the social sciences, the research problem establishes the means by which you must answer the "So What?" question. This declarative question refers to a research problem surviving the relevancy test [the quality of a measurement procedure that provides repeatability and accuracy]. Note that answering the "So What?" question requires a commitment on your part to not only show that you have reviewed the literature, but that you have thoroughly considered the significance of the research problem and its implications applied to creating new knowledge and understanding or informing practice.

To survive the "So What" question, problem statements should possess the following attributes:

• Clarity and precision [a well-written statement does not make sweeping generalizations and irresponsible pronouncements; it also does include unspecific determinates like "very" or "giant"],
• Demonstrate a researchable topic or issue [i.e., feasibility of conducting the study is based upon access to information that can be effectively acquired, gathered, interpreted, synthesized, and understood],
• Identification of what would be studied, while avoiding the use of value-laden words and terms,
• Identification of an overarching question or small set of questions accompanied by key factors or variables,
• Identification of key concepts and terms,
• Articulation of the study's conceptual boundaries or parameters or limitations,
• Some generalizability in regards to applicability and bringing results into general use,
• Conveyance of the study's importance, benefits, and justification [i.e., regardless of the type of research, it is important to demonstrate that the research is not trivial],
• Does not have unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentence constructions; and,
• Conveyance of more than the mere gathering of descriptive data providing only a snapshot of the issue or phenomenon under investigation.

Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Brown, Perry J., Allen Dyer, and Ross S. Whaley. "Recreation Research—So What?" Journal of Leisure Research 5 (1973): 16-24; Castellanos, Susie. Critical Writing and Thinking. The Writing Center. Dean of the College. Brown University; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova. "Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem." Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); Thesis and Purpose Statements. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Selwyn, Neil. "‘So What?’…A Question that Every Journal Article Needs to Answer." Learning, Media, and Technology 39 (2014): 1-5; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518.

Structure and Writing Style

I.  Types and Content

There are four general conceptualizations of a research problem in the social sciences:

• Casuist Research Problem -- this type of problem relates to the determination of right and wrong in questions of conduct or conscience by analyzing moral dilemmas through the application of general rules and the careful distinction of special cases.
• Difference Research Problem -- typically asks the question, “Is there a difference between two or more groups or treatments?” This type of problem statement is used when the researcher compares or contrasts two or more phenomena. This a common approach to defining a problem in the clinical social sciences or behavioral sciences.
• Descriptive Research Problem -- typically asks the question, "what is...?" with the underlying purpose to describe the significance of a situation, state, or existence of a specific phenomenon. This problem is often associated with revealing hidden or understudied issues.
• Relational Research Problem -- suggests a relationship of some sort between two or more variables to be investigated. The underlying purpose is to investigate specific qualities or characteristics that may be connected in some way.

A problem statement in the social sciences should contain :

• A lead-in that helps ensure the reader will maintain interest over the study,
• A declaration of originality [e.g., mentioning a knowledge void or a lack of clarity about a topic that will be revealed in the literature review of prior research],
• An indication of the central focus of the study [establishing the boundaries of analysis], and
• An explanation of the study's significance or the benefits to be derived from investigating the research problem.

NOTE :   A statement describing the research problem of your paper should not be viewed as a thesis statement that you may be familiar with from high school. Given the content listed above, a description of the research problem is usually a short paragraph in length.

II.  Sources of Problems for Investigation

The identification of a problem to study can be challenging, not because there's a lack of issues that could be investigated, but due to the challenge of formulating an academically relevant and researchable problem which is unique and does not simply duplicate the work of others. To facilitate how you might select a problem from which to build a research study, consider these sources of inspiration:

Deductions from Theory This relates to deductions made from social philosophy or generalizations embodied in life and in society that the researcher is familiar with. These deductions from human behavior are then placed within an empirical frame of reference through research. From a theory, the researcher can formulate a research problem or hypothesis stating the expected findings in certain empirical situations. The research asks the question: “What relationship between variables will be observed if theory aptly summarizes the state of affairs?” One can then design and carry out a systematic investigation to assess whether empirical data confirm or reject the hypothesis, and hence, the theory.

Interdisciplinary Perspectives Identifying a problem that forms the basis for a research study can come from academic movements and scholarship originating in disciplines outside of your primary area of study. This can be an intellectually stimulating exercise. A review of pertinent literature should include examining research from related disciplines that can reveal new avenues of exploration and analysis. An interdisciplinary approach to selecting a research problem offers an opportunity to construct a more comprehensive understanding of a very complex issue that any single discipline may be able to provide.

Interviewing Practitioners The identification of research problems about particular topics can arise from formal interviews or informal discussions with practitioners who provide insight into new directions for future research and how to make research findings more relevant to practice. Discussions with experts in the field, such as, teachers, social workers, health care providers, lawyers, business leaders, etc., offers the chance to identify practical, “real world” problems that may be understudied or ignored within academic circles. This approach also provides some practical knowledge which may help in the process of designing and conducting your study.

Personal Experience Don't undervalue your everyday experiences or encounters as worthwhile problems for investigation. Think critically about your own experiences and/or frustrations with an issue facing society or related to your community, your neighborhood, your family, or your personal life. This can be derived, for example, from deliberate observations of certain relationships for which there is no clear explanation or witnessing an event that appears harmful to a person or group or that is out of the ordinary.

Relevant Literature The selection of a research problem can be derived from a thorough review of pertinent research associated with your overall area of interest. This may reveal where gaps exist in understanding a topic or where an issue has been understudied. Research may be conducted to: 1) fill such gaps in knowledge; 2) evaluate if the methodologies employed in prior studies can be adapted to solve other problems; or, 3) determine if a similar study could be conducted in a different subject area or applied in a different context or to different study sample [i.e., different setting or different group of people]. Also, authors frequently conclude their studies by noting implications for further research; read the conclusion of pertinent studies because statements about further research can be a valuable source for identifying new problems to investigate. The fact that a researcher has identified a topic worthy of further exploration validates the fact it is worth pursuing.

III.  What Makes a Good Research Statement?

A good problem statement begins by introducing the broad area in which your research is centered, gradually leading the reader to the more specific issues you are investigating. The statement need not be lengthy, but a good research problem should incorporate the following features:

1.  Compelling Topic The problem chosen should be one that motivates you to address it but simple curiosity is not a good enough reason to pursue a research study because this does not indicate significance. The problem that you choose to explore must be important to you, but it must also be viewed as important by your readers and to a the larger academic and/or social community that could be impacted by the results of your study. 2.  Supports Multiple Perspectives The problem must be phrased in a way that avoids dichotomies and instead supports the generation and exploration of multiple perspectives. A general rule of thumb in the social sciences is that a good research problem is one that would generate a variety of viewpoints from a composite audience made up of reasonable people. 3.  Researchability This isn't a real word but it represents an important aspect of creating a good research statement. It seems a bit obvious, but you don't want to find yourself in the midst of investigating a complex research project and realize that you don't have enough prior research to draw from for your analysis. There's nothing inherently wrong with original research, but you must choose research problems that can be supported, in some way, by the resources available to you. If you are not sure if something is researchable, don't assume that it isn't if you don't find information right away--seek help from a librarian !

NOTE:   Do not confuse a research problem with a research topic. A topic is something to read and obtain information about, whereas a problem is something to be solved or framed as a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution, or explained as a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation. In short, a research topic is something to be understood; a research problem is something that needs to be investigated.

IV.  Asking Analytical Questions about the Research Problem

Research problems in the social and behavioral sciences are often analyzed around critical questions that must be investigated. These questions can be explicitly listed in the introduction [i.e., "This study addresses three research questions about women's psychological recovery from domestic abuse in multi-generational home settings..."], or, the questions are implied in the text as specific areas of study related to the research problem. Explicitly listing your research questions at the end of your introduction can help in designing a clear roadmap of what you plan to address in your study, whereas, implicitly integrating them into the text of the introduction allows you to create a more compelling narrative around the key issues under investigation. Either approach is appropriate.

The number of questions you attempt to address should be based on the complexity of the problem you are investigating and what areas of inquiry you find most critical to study. Practical considerations, such as, the length of the paper you are writing or the availability of resources to analyze the issue can also factor in how many questions to ask. In general, however, there should be no more than four research questions underpinning a single research problem.

Given this, well-developed analytical questions can focus on any of the following:

• Highlights a genuine dilemma, area of ambiguity, or point of confusion about a topic open to interpretation by your readers;
• Yields an answer that is unexpected and not obvious rather than inevitable and self-evident;
• Provokes meaningful thought or discussion;
• Raises the visibility of the key ideas or concepts that may be understudied or hidden;
• Suggests the need for complex analysis or argument rather than a basic description or summary; and,
• Offers a specific path of inquiry that avoids eliciting generalizations about the problem.

NOTE:   Questions of how and why concerning a research problem often require more analysis than questions about who, what, where, and when. You should still ask yourself these latter questions, however. Thinking introspectively about the who, what, where, and when of a research problem can help ensure that you have thoroughly considered all aspects of the problem under investigation and helps define the scope of the study in relation to the problem.

V.  Mistakes to Avoid

Beware of circular reasoning! Do not state the research problem as simply the absence of the thing you are suggesting. For example, if you propose the following, "The problem in this community is that there is no hospital," this only leads to a research problem where:

• The need is for a hospital
• The objective is to create a hospital
• The method is to plan for building a hospital, and
• The evaluation is to measure if there is a hospital or not.

This is an example of a research problem that fails the "So What?" test . In this example, the problem does not reveal the relevance of why you are investigating the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., perhaps there's a hospital in the community ten miles away]; it does not elucidate the significance of why one should study the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., that hospital in the community ten miles away has no emergency room]; the research problem does not offer an intellectual pathway towards adding new knowledge or clarifying prior knowledge [e.g., the county in which there is no hospital already conducted a study about the need for a hospital, but it was conducted ten years ago]; and, the problem does not offer meaningful outcomes that lead to recommendations that can be generalized for other situations or that could suggest areas for further research [e.g., the challenges of building a new hospital serves as a case study for other communities].

Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. “Generating Research Questions Through Problematization.” Academy of Management Review 36 (April 2011): 247-271 ; Choosing and Refining Topics. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; D'Souza, Victor S. "Use of Induction and Deduction in Research in Social Sciences: An Illustration." Journal of the Indian Law Institute 24 (1982): 655-661; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova. "Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem." Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); How to Write a Research Question. The Writing Center. George Mason University; Invention: Developing a Thesis Statement. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Problem Statements PowerPoint Presentation. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Procter, Margaret. Using Thesis Statements. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518; Trochim, William M.K. Problem Formulation. Research Methods Knowledge Base. 2006; Thesis and Purpose Statements. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Walk, Kerry. Asking an Analytical Question. [Class handout or worksheet]. Princeton University; White, Patrick. Developing Research Questions: A Guide for Social Scientists . New York: Palgrave McMillan, 2009; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.

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Transformations That Work

• Michael Mankins
• Patrick Litre

More than a third of large organizations have some type of transformation program underway at any given time, and many launch one major change initiative after another. Though they kick off with a lot of fanfare, most of these efforts fail to deliver. Only 12% produce lasting results, and that figure hasn’t budged in the past two decades, despite everything we’ve learned over the years about how to lead change.

Clearly, businesses need a new model for transformation. In this article the authors present one based on research with dozens of leading companies that have defied the odds, such as Ford, Dell, Amgen, T-Mobile, Adobe, and Virgin Australia. The successful programs, the authors found, employed six critical practices: treating transformation as a continuous process; building it into the company’s operating rhythm; explicitly managing organizational energy; using aspirations, not benchmarks, to set goals; driving change from the middle of the organization out; and tapping significant external capital to fund the effort from the start.

Lessons from companies that are defying the odds

Idea in Brief

The problem.

Although companies frequently engage in transformation initiatives, few are actually transformative. Research indicates that only 12% of major change programs produce lasting results.

Why It Happens

Leaders are increasingly content with incremental improvements. As a result, they experience fewer outright failures but equally fewer real transformations.

The Solution

To deliver, change programs must treat transformation as a continuous process, build it into the company’s operating rhythm, explicitly manage organizational energy, state aspirations rather than set targets, drive change from the middle out, and be funded by serious capital investments.

Nearly every major corporation has embarked on some sort of transformation in recent years. By our estimates, at any given time more than a third of large organizations have a transformation program underway. When asked, roughly 50% of CEOs we’ve interviewed report that their company has undertaken two or more major change efforts within the past five years, with nearly 20% reporting three or more.

• Michael Mankins is a leader in Bain’s Organization and Strategy practices and is a partner based in Austin, Texas. He is a coauthor of Time, Talent, Energy: Overcome Organizational Drag and Unleash Your Team’s Productive Power (Harvard Business Review Press, 2017).
• PL Patrick Litre leads Bain’s Global Transformation and Change practice and is a partner based in Atlanta.

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April 10, 2024

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Using research to solve societal problems starts with building connections and making space for young people

by Zoey England, Jennifer Forbey and Michael Muszynski, The Conversation

Often, when scientists do research around a specific societal challenge, they hope their work will help solve that larger problem. Yet translating findings into long-lasting, community-driven solutions is much harder than most expect.

It seems intuitive that scientists studying living organisms, microbes, and ecosystems could apply their findings to tackle food shortages, help keep environments healthy, and improve human and animal health . But it's not always that easy. Issues like climate change , renewable energy, public health, and migration are complex , making direct solutions challenging to develop and implement.

As a group of researchers invested in helping scientists create meaningful impact with their work, we understand problems like these will need experts from different fields and industries to work together.

This means we might need to reevaluate certain aspects of the inquiry process and embrace fresh perspectives if we, as members of the scientific community, want to improve our capacity for producing solutions-oriented research.

Defining use-inspired research

Science does not occur in a vacuum. Factors including funding availability, access to advanced technologies and political or social contexts can influence the kinds of studies that get done. A framework called use-inspired research and engagement, or UIRE, acknowledges this fact.

In use-inspired research , the potential applications of findings for society shape the directions of exploration.

In UIRE, researchers work with members of a community to figure out what questions they should look into. They form partnerships with other stakeholders, including governments, businesses of all scales and nonprofits, to form a collaborative foundation. This way, researchers can tailor investigations from the outset to be useful to and usable by decision-makers.

Translational research , or intentionally grounding scientific exploration in practical applications, isn't new . Use-inspired research expands on translational research, prioritizing building connections between practitioners and communities.

In the U.S., the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act in 2022 further codified use-inspired research. The act directed US$280 billion over the next 10 years toward funding scientific inquiry to boost domestic competitiveness, innovation and national security.

This legislation also authorized the establishment of the National Science Foundation's Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, called NSF TIP . TIP marks the agency's first new directorate in over three decades, created with the aim of sparking the growth of diverse innovation and technology landscapes.

Producing science in partnership

In use-inspired research and engagement, collaboration is a big part of each project from the start, when the researchers are first deciding what to study. These cooperative partnerships continue throughout data collection and analysis. Together, these teams apply the results and develop products, implement behavior changes, or further inform community decision-making.

For example, a large hospital, an academic organization and several nonprofits may partner together to explore issues affecting health care accessibility in the region. Researchers collect data through surveys and interviews, and interpret the findings within the community's specific circumstances. They can then coordinate data evaluation with the health care and nonprofit partners, which helps take socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs and built infrastructure like grocery stores and public transportation into account.

This approach brings together the broad perspectives of a large hospital network, academic expertise around survey creation and data analysis, and specialized knowledge held by nonprofits. These groups can then collaborate further to develop specific programs, such as educational initiatives and enhanced health care services. They can tailor these to the needs of the community they serve.

Use-inspired research matters because it looks at all the different issues facing a community holistically and keeps them in mind when investigating potential solutions. UIRE is not a substitute for basic, foundational research, which explores new questions to fundamentally understand a topic. Rather, it's an approach centered around selecting questions and developing methods based on real-world importance.

UIRE creates a foundation for long-term, inclusive partnerships—and not just within academia. Government, community organizations, large companies and startups can all use the same principles of UIRE to share ideas and craft solutions to issues facing their communities. Individuals from all sorts of backgrounds are equally integral to the entire process, further amplifying the viewpoints present.

Use-inspired methods are not only relevant to improving research outcomes. A use-inspired approach drives innovation and technological advancements across sectors . When used in K-12 classrooms , UIRE leads to well-rounded students .

This approach can also improve learning in workforce development spaces, creating employees trained to build connections.

UIRE provides platforms for the general public to participate in conversations about issues impacting their lives that they may not have otherwise been a part of.

Harnessing early-career engagement

Use-inspired methods challenge not only how, but who contributes to and benefits from scientific inquiry. They also focus on making the findings accessible to those outside academia.

To craft necessary solutions for complex societal problems, institutions will need to continue backing traditional scholars who excel at pure basic research. At the same time, they can support training in use-inspired domains.

Early-career professionals across sectors will continue to play an important role in spreading and sustaining the cultural shifts necessary to embrace use-inspired research at a wider scale. These early-career professionals can bring fresh ideas to the table and craft innovative approaches to problems.

To support translational research long term, institutions and supervisors can support students in hands-on learning opportunities from the first year of undergraduate coursework to postgraduate fellowships. These opportunities can help students learn about UIRE and equip them with the skills needed to build cross-sector partnerships before entering the workforce.

By receiving mentorship from individuals outside academia, students and trainees can gain exposure to different career paths and find motivation to pursue opportunities outside traditional academic roles. This mentorship fosters creative problem-solving and adaptability.

UIRE provides a potential framework to addressing complex societal challenges. Creating opportunities for the ongoing involvement of young people will seed a vibrant future for use-inspired research and engagement.

Provided by The Conversation

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Engineers at MIT and in China are aiming to turn seawater into drinking water with a completely passive device that is inspired by the ocean, and powered by the sun.

In a paper appearing today in the journal Joule, the team outlines the design for a new solar desalination system that takes in saltwater and heats it with natural sunlight.

The configuration of the device allows water to circulate in swirling eddies, in a manner similar to the much larger “thermohaline” circulation of the ocean. This circulation, combined with the sun’s heat, drives water to evaporate, leaving salt behind. The resulting water vapor can then be condensed and collected as pure, drinkable water. In the meantime, the leftover salt continues to circulate through and out of the device, rather than accumulating and clogging the system.

The new system has a higher water-production rate and a higher salt-rejection rate than all other passive solar desalination concepts currently being tested.

The researchers estimate that if the system is scaled up to the size of a small suitcase, it could produce about 4 to 6 liters of drinking water per hour and last several years before requiring replacement parts. At this scale and performance, the system could produce drinking water at a rate and price that is cheaper than tap water.

“For the first time, it is possible for water, produced by sunlight, to be even cheaper than tap water,” says Lenan Zhang, a research scientist in MIT’s Device Research Laboratory.

The team envisions a scaled-up device could passively produce enough drinking water to meet the daily requirements of a small family. The system could also supply off-grid, coastal communities where seawater is easily accessible.

Zhang’s study co-authors include MIT graduate student Yang Zhong and Evelyn Wang, the Ford Professor of Engineering, along with Jintong Gao, Jinfang You, Zhanyu Ye, Ruzhu Wang, and Zhenyuan Xu of Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China.

A powerful convection

The team’s new system improves on their previous design — a similar concept of multiple layers, called stages. Each stage contained an evaporator and a condenser that used heat from the sun to passively separate salt from incoming water. That design, which the team tested on the roof of an MIT building, efficiently converted the sun’s energy to evaporate water, which was then condensed into drinkable water. But the salt that was left over quickly accumulated as crystals that clogged the system after a few days. In a real-world setting, a user would have to place stages on a frequent basis, which would significantly increase the system’s overall cost.

In a follow-up effort, they devised a solution with a similar layered configuration, this time with an added feature that helped to circulate the incoming water as well as any leftover salt. While this design prevented salt from settling and accumulating on the device, it desalinated water at a relatively low rate.

In the latest iteration, the team believes it has landed on a design that achieves both a high water-production rate, and high salt rejection, meaning that the system can quickly and reliably produce drinking water for an extended period. The key to their new design is a combination of their two previous concepts: a multistage system of evaporators and condensers, that is also configured to boost the circulation of water — and salt — within each stage.

“We introduce now an even more powerful convection, that is similar to what we typically see in the ocean, at kilometer-long scales,” Xu says.

The small circulations generated in the team’s new system is similar to the “thermohaline” convection in the ocean — a phenomenon that drives the movement of water around the world, based on differences in sea temperature (“thermo”) and salinity (“haline”).

“When seawater is exposed to air, sunlight drives water to evaporate. Once water leaves the surface, salt remains. And the higher the salt concentration, the denser the liquid, and this heavier water wants to flow downward,” Zhang explains. “By mimicking this kilometer-wide phenomena in small box, we can take advantage of this feature to reject salt.”

Tapping out

The heart of the team’s new design is a single stage that resembles a thin box, topped with a dark material that efficiently absorbs the heat of the sun. Inside, the box is separated into a top and bottom section. Water can flow through the top half, where the ceiling is lined with an evaporator layer that uses the sun’s heat to warm up and evaporate any water in direct contact. The water vapor is then funneled to the bottom half of the box, where a condensing layer air-cools the vapor into salt-free, drinkable liquid. The researchers set the entire box at a tilt within a larger, empty vessel, then attached a tube from the top half of the box down through the bottom of the vessel, and floated the vessel in saltwater.

In this configuration, water can naturally push up through the tube and into the box, where the tilt of the box, combined with the thermal energy from the sun, induces the water to swirl as it flows through. The small eddies help to bring water in contact with the upper evaporating layer while keeping salt circulating, rather than settling and clogging.

The team built several prototypes, with one, three, and 10 stages, and tested their performance in water of varying salinity, including natural seawater and water that was seven times saltier.

From these tests, the researchers calculated that if each stage were scaled up to a square meter, it would produce up to 5 liters of drinking water per hour, and that the system could desalinate water without accumulating salt for several years. Given this extended lifetime, and the fact that the system is entirely passive, requiring no electricity to run, the team estimates that the overall cost of running the system would be cheaper than what it costs to produce tap water in the United States.

“We show that this device is capable of achieving a long lifetime,” Zhong says. “That means that, for the first time, it is possible for drinking water produced by sunlight to be cheaper than tap water. This opens up the possibility for solar desalination to address real-world problems.”

“This is a very innovative approach that effectively mitigates key challenges in the field of desalination,” says Guihua Yu, who develops sustainable water and energy storage systems at the University of Texas at Austin, and was not involved in the research. “The design is particularly beneficial for regions struggling with high-salinity water. Its modular design makes it highly suitable for household water production, allowing for scalability and adaptability to meet individual needs.”

Funding for the research at Shanghai Jiao Tong University was supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China.

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Press mentions, time magazine.

A number of MIT spinouts and research projects – including the MOXIE instrument that successfully generated oxygen on Mars, a new solar-powered desalination system and MIT spinout SurgiBox – were featured on TIME’s Best Inventions of 2023 list.

Insider reporter Katie Hawkinson explores how MIT researchers developed a new solar-powered desalination system that can remove the salt from seawater for less than the cost of U.S. tap water. Creating a device that relies on solar power, “eliminates a major financial barrier, especially for low-income countries experiencing water scarcity,” Hawkinson explains.

The Hill reporter Sharon Udasin writes that MIT researchers have developed a new solar-powered desalination device that “could last several years and generate water at a rate and price that is less expensive than tap water.” The researchers estimated that “if their model was scaled up to the size of a small suitcase, it could produce about 4 to 6 liters of drinking water per hour,” writes Udasin.

The Daily Beast

MIT researchers have developed a new desalination system that uses solar energy to convert seawater into drinkable water, reports Tony Ho Tran for the Daily Beast . The device could make it possible to, “make freshwater that’s even more affordable than the water coming from Americans’ kitchen faucets.”

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