Problem-Solution Essay: Types and Analysis

Problem-and-Solution Essay

• This type of essay identifies a problem, explains it, and proposes a solution.
• A focused problem statement is essential.
• A solution to the problem needs to be suggested.
• Use facts, statistics, and details to illustrate the problem and how it can be solved.
• Requires logical organization to clearly present the problem and solution.

Types of Problem-and-Solution Writing

• Formal letters offer solutions to public problems and are sent to decision-makers.
• Advice columns address personal problems and provide solutions.
• Memos and proposals suggest solutions to business or organizational problems.

Problem-and-Solution Analysis in Everyday Life

• News reports discuss global issues and solutions.
• Advice columns offer suggestions for personal problems.
• Self-improvement books provide guidance.
• Community initiatives address local problems.

Key Ideas

• Problems exist everywhere in society.
• Solutions are available if we pay attention.
• Understanding cause-and-effect can help solve problems.

Problem-and-Solution Essay Example

• One student identified increased traffic as a local problem.
• He suggested a solution to improve safety and progress.
• He followed steps such as prewriting, drafting, and revising.

Comparison-and-Contrast Essay

• This type of essay examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects.

Purposes

• To describe or explain a subject.
• To reveal strengths and weaknesses.
• To persuade the reader.

Characteristics

• Identifies subject similarities and differences, such as people, places, or ideas.
• Provides factual details about subjects.
• A clear purpose for comparison is needed.
• Subjects should be presented equally through either point-by-point or subject-by-subject organization.

Types of Comparison-and-Contrast Essays

• Useful format for historical figures/events.
• Useful format for arts and humanities.
• Useful format for consumer goods comparisons.

Comparison and Contrast in Everyday Life

• Used when making choices.
• Some comparisons are long-lasting; others are temporary.
• Understanding differences and similarities helps make informed choices.

Key Ideas

• Comparing and contrasting requires more study but leads to valuable discoveries.
• Effort in comparison provides deeper understanding.

Cause-and-Effect Essay

• Expository writing which Explains the relationship between causes (why) and effects (what happens).
• Focuses on actions that produce a specific result.

Key Elements

• Has an introduction with a general statement about the topic.
• Cause Analysis discusses the reasons behind an event or situation.
• Effect Analysis explains the outcomes or results of the cause.
• Supporting Evidence includes facts, statistics, and examples.
• Clear Organization ensures a logical flow.

Types of Cause-and-Effect Essays

• Lab Reports explain causes and effects in experiments.
• History Papers analyze historical events and their effects.
• Health Articles discuss well-being factors like diet, lifestyle, and heredity.

Cause-and-Effect Analysis in Everyday Life

• We naturally question causes and effects from childhood.
• As we grow, our questions become more complex.
• Examining cause-and-effect relationships helps us understand the world better and shape our decisions.

Key Ideas

• Examines how life in nature influenced one person's life.

Definition of a Research Paper

• A formal, written presentation of findings on a topic based on information gathered from multiple sources.
• Requires critical thinking, analysis, and proper documentation of sources.

Key Elements

• A clear, concise thesis statement that presents the main idea of the paper.
• Supports claims with information from reliable sources, including direct quotations and citations.
• A well-structured paper with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Has a list of sources used in research.

Types of Research Papers

• Lab Reports document scientific experiments.
• Annotated Bibliographies summarize and evaluate sources.
• Documented Essays use multiple sources to discuss a topic.
• Multimedia Research uses various media to present research findings.

Steps in Writing a Research Paper

• Choose a topic that interests you and has sufficient resources.
• Research using books, journals, websites, and interviews.
• Organize main points and supporting details before writing.
• Develop the paper by expanding on ideas and including evidence.
• Use proper citation formats to give credit to sources.
• Review for clarity, grammar, and coherence before submitting the final version.