IELTS Speaking Part 3 Problem-Solution Questions: Expert Guide

Quick Answer: Problem-solution questions in IELTS Speaking Part 3 ask you to identify a problem related to a topic and suggest practical solutions. To score high, you must show you can discuss causes, consequences, and evaluate the effectiveness of different solutions. The key is to structure your answer clearly, use topic-specific vocabulary, and provide realistic examples.

Table of Contents

What Are Problem-Solution Questions?

How to Structure Your Answer

Vocabulary for Problem-Solution Questions

Band Score Comparison Table

What Are Problem-Solution Questions?

Problem-solution questions are one of the most common question types in IELTS Speaking Part 3. They typically come after you have discussed more general aspects of a topic in Part 1 and Part 2. The examiner wants to see if you can think critically, analyse a situation, and propose workable solutions. Examples of problem-solution questions:

"What are the main problems with public transport in big cities, and how can they be solved?"

"Many young people are spending too much time on social media. What problems does this cause, and what can be done about it?"

"Traffic congestion is a growing issue. What do you think are the causes, and what solutions would you suggest?"

Notice that these questions often have two parts: identify the problem(s) and then suggest solution(s). The examiner will expect you to address both parts clearly.

How to Structure Your Answer

A strong response follows a logical structure. Use this simple framework:

Acknowledge the question – Show you understand what is being asked.

Identify the problem(s) – Mention 1-2 key problems with brief explanation.

Explain the cause or consequence – Briefly say why the problem exists or what it leads to.

Propose solution(s) – Suggest 1-2 realistic solutions.

Evaluate the solution – Comment on how effective or feasible the solution is, or mention possible drawbacks.

Example structure:

"That's an interesting question. I think one major problem is... This is mainly because... As a result... To tackle this, one possible solution would be... However, this might not be easy because... Another approach could be... In my opinion, the most effective solution is..."

Tip: Don't just list problems and solutions. Show your ability to develop ideas. Use linking words like "furthermore", "on the other hand", "this leads to", "as a consequence".

Vocabulary for Problem-Solution Questions

Using precise vocabulary can boost your lexical resource score. Here are useful words and phrases: Introducing problems:

A major issue / A pressing concern / A growing challenge

This leads to / This results in / This gives rise to

One of the most serious problems is...

The root cause of this is...

Suggesting solutions:

One possible solution would be...

To address this, the government could...

Another effective approach is...

This could be tackled by...

A more sustainable solution might be...

Evaluating solutions:

This is likely to be effective because...

However, there are some drawbacks, such as...

In the long term, this would...

While this may work in theory, in practice it could be difficult because...

Band Score Comparison Table

Band	What Examiner Wants
6	Answers are relevant but often brief. Problems and solutions are mentioned but not fully developed. Vocabulary is simple. Some hesitation or repetition.
7	Clear structure with both problems and solutions. Uses some linking words and topic vocabulary. Ideas are explained with examples. Minor errors but overall fluent.
8	Well-organised response with a range of vocabulary. Can evaluate solutions (mention pros/cons). Speaks fluently with only occasional hesitation. Uses idiomatic language naturally.
9	Fully developed answer with sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures. Demonstrates critical thinking: analyses causes, consequences, and feasibility of solutions. Speaks effortlessly, with precise word choice.

Sample Answers

Band 7: Question: "What problems are caused by too much screen time for children, and how can parents address this?"

"Well, I think one problem is that children might have trouble sleeping because the blue light from screens affects their brains. Also, they may not get enough physical exercise. To solve this, parents could set screen time limits, maybe one hour per day. Also, they can encourage children to do outdoor activities or read books. Another idea is to keep phones and tablets out of the bedroom at night. I think these solutions could work if parents are consistent."

Band 8: Same question

"That's a relevant issue. The main problem, in my view, is that excessive screen time can lead to both physical and mental health issues. For example, children often become sedentary, which contributes to obesity, and they may also experience sleep disruption due to the stimulating nature of screens. As for solutions, I believe a multi-pronged approach is needed. First, parents should establish clear boundaries, such as limiting recreational screen time to a reasonable amount. Second, they could promote alternative activities like sports or board games to make the transition easier. However, the challenge is that parents themselves often rely on screens, so setting a good example is crucial. In the long run, education about digital well-being should start in schools as well."

Band 9: Same question

"Certainly, this is a growing concern for many families. The primary problem, I'd argue, is that prolonged screen use interferes with children's cognitive and social development. For instance, research indicates that too much time in front of screens can reduce attention spans and face-to-face communication skills. Additionally, the sedentary nature of screen time often replaces physical activity, leading to health problems like obesity and eye strain. To tackle this, a combination of regulation and engagement is essential. First, parents can implement tech-free zones or times, such as during meals or before bed. But more importantly, they need to offer appealing alternatives - enrolling children in clubs, encouraging hobbies, or simply spending quality time together outdoors. The difficulty lies in enforcement, as children may resist, so consistency is key. From a broader perspective, governments and tech companies could also design devices with built-in usage limits for children. Ultimately, the most effective solution is a holistic one that involves the whole family and community."

Common Mistakes

❌Only listing problems or solutions, not both. The question asks for both; missing one part lowers your score.

❌Giving vague or unrealistic solutions. Saying "the government should do something" without specifics is weak. Be concrete.

❌Not evaluating the solution. High scorers always comment on why a solution might work or what its limitations are.

❌Using repetitive language. Avoid "problem/solution" over and over. Use synonyms like "issue", "drawback", "approach", "measure".

❌Speaking too briefly. Part 3 expects extended answers (3-4 sentences minimum per point). Develop your ideas with examples.

Top Tips

💡 Always answer the full question. If the question has two parts, address both. You can say "There are several problems, and in my opinion, the most effective solution is..."

💡 Use examples from real life. Mention specific countries, cities, or personal experiences to make your answer convincing.

💡 Show critical thinking. Don't just say a solution is good; explain why. For example, "While this may be effective, it could be expensive to implement, so governments might need to seek private investment."

Resources

Check out IELTS Active for practice tests and study materials – they have hundreds of Part 3 questions with model answers.

FAQ

Q: How many problems and solutions should I give? A: One or two of each is enough. Quality over quantity. Develop each point with explanation and example. Q: Can I give my personal opinion in Part 3? A: Yes, the question often asks "what do you think?" It's fine to say "in my view" or "personally, I believe". Q: What if I can't think of a solution quickly? A: Pause briefly and use a filler like "That's an interesting point. Let me think..." Then start with a general problem and build from there. Practice brainstorming common themes: environment, technology, education, health. Q: Should I use conditionals in my answer? A: Yes, conditionals (if/would) help you discuss hypothetical solutions. For example, "If the government implemented stricter laws, then pollution might decrease."

Key Takeaways

✅Always address both the problem and the solution in your answer.

✅Structure your response: problem → cause/consequence → solution → evaluation.

✅Use topic-specific vocabulary and avoid repetition.

✅Give realistic, specific examples to support your ideas.

✅Practice with a wide range of topics to become faster and more fluent.

Related Posts:

IELTS Speaking Part 3: How to Develop Your Ideas

Top 10 Vocabulary Topics for IELTS Speaking

Common Mistakes in IELTS Speaking Part 2 and How to Avoid Them