Providing solutions to problems

Essays providing solutions to problems are pieces of writing in which you discuss a problem and its causes as well as the expected results or consequences of your suggestions.

An essay providing solutions to problems should consist of:

1. an introduction in which you state the problem and/or what has caused it;

2. a main body which consists of two or more paragraphs presenting suggestions and their results/consequences. You should start a new paragraph for each suggestion and its results/consequences; and

3. a conclusion in which you summarise your opinion.

Essays providing solutions to problems are normally written in a formal or semi-formal style, depending on who is going to read them and where they are published. They are usually found in newspapers and magazines.

Introduction
Paragraph 1	states the problem(s) and/ or the cause(s)
Main Body
Paragraphs 2-4	suggestions and results/consequences
Conclusion
Final Paragraph	summarises your opinion

Note! The number of main body paragraphs depends on the number of suggestions you want to make.

Useful expressions and linking words/phrases

To make suggestions: A useful suggestion would be to..., Another solution..., ... could be solved by..., Steps/Measures should be taken in order to solve/deal with..., Another way to... is/would be to..., The situation could be improved if/by., It would be a good idea if/to..., It would help if you/we/etc...,

To present results and consequences: This would.,. Then..., By doing this, you/we/etc would..., If... ....,the result would be..., The effect/consequence/result of ... would be, In this way,..., thus, therefore, as a result, consequently, so, as a consequence

To express cause: because of/owing to/ due to the fact that, for this reason

To express reality: in fact, as a matter of fact, actually, in practice

To emphasise what you say: obviously, clearly, needles to say, in particular

To conclude: All in all, To sum up, All things considered

Discursive essays

Discursive essays are formal in style. In this type of essay, the writer focuses on various aspects of the topic in turn. Some possible aspects to be considered are set out in the "discussion clock" on this page (moral, political, social, etc.). Each viewpoint is supported by examples. Opposing viewpoints should be mentioned as well. These essays do not aim to persuade the reader that the writer's opinion is the only valid one, but to make him/her consider a current issue from various angles, allowing him/her to form his/her own opinion or expand on the viewpoints already mentioned.

A good «Discursive essay» should consist of:

1. an introduction in which you state the topic, explaining the current or past situation;

2. a main body consisting of two or more paragraphs, in each of which a viewpoint is discussed along with the opposing viewpoint; and

1. a conclusion in which you summarise the topic by making a general comment about it. Your opinion can also be included.

Introduction	states the topic
Main Body
Paragraph 2	first viewpoint & opposing argument
Paragraph 3	second viewpoint and opposing argument
Conclusion	summarise topic, making general comments, and/or giving your opinion

Note! The main body can consist of more than two paragraphs depending on the number of viewpoints you want to talk about.

When considering a topic, bear in mind the "discussion clock". This will help you decide on what viewpoints to mention in the essay. Each topic can be seen from various viewpoints. Before writing your discursive essay, decide on the viewpoints you will mention. Keep in mind that you cannot approach a topic through all the aspects presented in the discussion clock. The various aspects illustrated are there to help you plan your essay. Remember that for each viewpoint you have thought of, there is an opposing argument. Think of the opposing arguments while planning your essay. Join the opposing viewpoints with appropriate linking words such as however, on the other hand, on the contrary, and contrary to. Avoid using simplistic words. Instead, use more sophisticated vocabulary.

Useful expressions and linking words/phrases

To bring up other points or aspects; as far as, regarding, as for, with regard to

To make contrasting points: yet, however, nevertheless, although, in spite of, despite, while, on the other hand, it is argued that, opponents of this view say there are people who oppose, contrary to what people believe

To conclude: all in all, to sum up, in my opinion, in my view, to my mind

To express reality: in fact, as a matter of fact, in practice, the fact is