Problem-Solution Essay
Introduction
In a problem-solution essay, you analyze a problem and propose a method for solving it. The problem you choose to analyze should be
one that offers some challenges but is still possible to resolve. A problem-solution essay should have the following characteristics:
• a problem that needs to be solved
• a thesis statement that identifies the problem and points toward the solution
• identification of several possible solutions
• specific facts, details, examples, and reasons indicating why one solution is best
• an analytical tone
AssignmentOn the following pages,
you will learn how to write a problemsolution essay. You will get step-by-step instructions. Each step will include an
example from a sample essay discussing the Articles of Confederation.
Read the instructions and the examples.
Then, follow each step to plan and write a 500–700 word essay.
Prewriting
Define the problem to be solved.In order to write a problem-solution essay, you need to start with a clear vision of the problem itself.
Once you have broken your problem down and looked at it from different angles, sit back and look at the big picture.
Think about your ultimate goal in solving the problem.
For a review of the steps in the writing process see the Historian’s Toolkit, Write Like a Historian.
Analyze a problem faced by the writers of the Constitution and discuss the solution that the Constitutional Convention chose