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6. Ultra-Interactive IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution) Tutorial with Band 9 Model Answer, Vocabulary & Exercises

August 1, 2025
IELTS Academic Sample Tests

Master IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 with this ultra-interactive Problem/Solution essay tutorial! Get step-by-step strategy, a Band 9 model answer, 40+ advanced vocabulary and phrases with usage notes, and two practice exercises with detailed feedback. Boost your IELTS score with expert guidance, mobile-friendly design, and engaging animations—plus links to LingExam’s social channels for even more free lessons and updates. - Ultra-Interactive IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution) Tutorial with Band 9 Model Answer, Vocabulary & Exercises - LingExam Language Academy - Lingexam.com

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Problem/Solution | LingExam

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Step-by-Step Band 9+ Tutorial (Problem/Solution Essay) (LingExam | Ultra-Interactive)

Welcome! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to master IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution Essay).

Sample Task:
Many cities around the world are facing serious traffic congestion. What are the main problems associated with this? What solutions can you suggest?

Follow each step below. Hover on any step to highlight and reveal advanced tips for Band 7+.

How to Answer IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution Essay): 12 Essential Steps

Read the task very carefully, identifying all instructions and keywords. Highlight important terms like “traffic congestion,” “main problems,” and “solutions.” Make sure you understand: this is not an opinion essay, but one where you must describe real problems and suggest effective solutions. Paraphrase the question in your notes to confirm your understanding, and double check that you will address both problems and solutions fully.

Quickly brainstorm 2–3 specific problems related to the issue. For traffic congestion, problems may include: increased air pollution, lost productivity, public health issues, and negative impact on mental wellbeing. Write down as many as you can in 1 minute, but then select the strongest, most relevant examples to develop. Choose problems that you can clearly explain and support with evidence.

Think of practical, realistic solutions to each problem. For each main problem, note 1–2 realistic solutions. For example, if the problem is “air pollution from traffic,” a solution might be “expand public transport” or “implement congestion charges.” Select solutions that are logical, feasible, and can be explained in detail. Avoid overgeneralized ideas; focus on steps that governments or individuals can actually take.

Organise your essay using a clear 4-paragraph model:

Introduction (paraphrase the task)
Body 1: Main problems (with examples/evidence)
Body 2: Solutions (with examples/explanation)
Conclusion (summarise main points)

Note your main points for each paragraph before writing to ensure a logical flow.

Start your introduction by paraphrasing the question and outlining what the essay will do. For example: “A growing number of cities worldwide are experiencing serious traffic congestion, which has become a significant urban challenge. This essay will discuss the principal problems associated with this trend and propose effective solutions.” Avoid presenting your solutions in the introduction; just outline your intentions.

Begin with a topic sentence introducing the first main problem. For example: “One of the main issues caused by heavy traffic is increased air pollution.” Expand by explaining how vehicle emissions contribute to health problems and environmental damage. Use specific examples or statistics (real or hypothetical). Then introduce a second problem if possible, such as time lost in traffic and stress for commuters. Explain each problem clearly.

Begin your second body paragraph with a clear topic sentence outlining possible solutions. For instance: “To tackle these problems, governments should invest in efficient public transport systems and encourage the use of bicycles.” Explain each solution step by step, showing how it addresses the specific problems identified earlier. Justify why your suggestions are practical and effective. Use academic language to explain processes and outcomes.

Support each problem and solution with examples, facts, or hypothetical evidence. For example, “Cities like Amsterdam have successfully reduced congestion by building extensive bike lanes.” This shows that your solutions are not just theoretical. Where possible, cite statistics, case studies, or real-world examples to strengthen your argument and achieve higher scores for Task Response.

Demonstrate a range of academic vocabulary and sentence structures. Replace basic words with more formal synonyms (e.g., “serious problem” → “pressing issue”). Use passive voice, relative clauses, and conditional structures for complexity. For example: “If cities fail to invest in public transport, congestion is likely to worsen.” Academic vocabulary and varied grammar are essential for Band 7+.

Connect your ideas using a range of linking phrases. Use “for instance,” “as a result,” “furthermore,” “in addition,” “on the one hand,” and “therefore.” This will help your writing flow naturally and logically, improving your score for coherence and cohesion. Avoid overusing the same linker repeatedly.

Summarise the main problems and your proposed solutions in a brief conclusion. Do not introduce any new points. Example: “In conclusion, traffic congestion causes a range of environmental and social problems, but these can be alleviated through investment in public transport and urban planning reforms.” This shows clear thinking and completes your essay.

Review your essay to ensure you answered every part of the question. Check for grammar, vocabulary, and spelling mistakes. Make sure you discussed both problems and solutions in depth. Read your essay aloud to check for clarity and coherence. Edit for conciseness and accuracy—this last step often makes the difference between Band 6.5 and 7.5+.

Band 9 Essay Plan & Example Notes

Example Introduction: “A growing number of cities are plagued by traffic congestion, which poses a significant challenge to urban life. This essay will outline the major issues caused by this phenomenon and propose viable solutions.”

Example Problem Sentence: “A major consequence of congestion is a dramatic rise in air pollution, negatively affecting public health.”

Example Solution Sentence: “One effective solution is to expand high-frequency public transport networks, thereby reducing the reliance on private vehicles.”

Example Conclusion: “Although traffic congestion is a serious problem in modern cities, well-planned investment and behavioural changes can greatly alleviate its negative effects.”

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2

Task:

Many cities around the world are facing serious traffic congestion. What are the main problems associated with this? What solutions can you suggest?

Write at least 250 words. Your answer should present clear problems and realistic solutions, supported by examples.

Your Answer:

Words: 0 / 1000

Please enter your information to submit your answer:

Full Name

Country of Living

Email Address

WhatsApp Number

Tip: Make sure your essay fully describes the main problems and realistic solutions, and is at least 250 words. Review your logic, vocabulary, and coherence before submitting!

Band 9 Model Answer & Step-by-Step Explanations

Read this Band 9 sample answer and tap/click each section to reveal a detailed, step-by-step breakdown showing exactly how to approach this IELTS Problem/Solution Task 2 question.

Introduction: Paraphrasing the Task & Overview (Show/Hide)

Explanation:
This introduction paraphrases the original task, introduces the topic, and clearly outlines the essay’s purpose. Notice the use of synonyms for “serious traffic congestion” (“severe traffic congestion”) and “main problems” (“major problems”). No specific problems or solutions are mentioned yet, just the intention to cover both. For Band 9, keep your introduction concise but clear, and avoid presenting detailed ideas until the body.

Body Paragraph 1: Describing Problems in Depth (Show/Hide)

One of the most significant problems associated with traffic congestion is air pollution. Heavy traffic leads to increased emissions of harmful gases, which can seriously affect people’s health, especially in densely populated cities. In addition, congestion results in lost productivity as commuters spend hours stuck in traffic instead of working or spending time with family. This daily frustration may contribute to higher stress levels and lower quality of life for urban residents.

Explanation:
This paragraph starts with a clear topic sentence and develops two distinct problems—pollution and lost productivity—with supporting explanations and real-life impacts. Academic collocations (“increased emissions of harmful gases”, “lost productivity”) and clear cause-effect logic are used. By elaborating on how these problems affect health and wellbeing, the writer demonstrates critical thinking and in-depth analysis—a Band 9 requirement.

Body Paragraph 2: Suggesting Practical Solutions (Show/Hide)

To address these issues, governments could invest in the development of efficient public transportation systems, such as subways, trams, or rapid bus lines. By providing affordable and reliable alternatives to private cars, cities can encourage more people to use mass transit, thereby reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Additionally, implementing congestion charges in city centers and promoting cycling or carpooling schemes can help ease traffic flow and lower pollution levels.

Explanation:
The paragraph opens with a solution-focused topic sentence. Each solution is specific, realistic, and explained step by step. The writer explains how each measure would address the previously discussed problems, showing logical structure and advanced cohesion (“thereby reducing the number of vehicles…”). Note the academic tone and use of modal verbs (“could invest”, “can encourage”). This precision and depth are vital for high band scores.

Conclusion: Summing Up Key Points (Show/Hide)

In conclusion, while traffic congestion poses serious problems for urban populations, such as pollution and reduced productivity, these can be tackled through investment in public transport and the encouragement of more sustainable travel options.

Explanation:
The conclusion is brief, restates both the main problems and proposed solutions, and uses fresh language (not copied from earlier). There are no new ideas—just a clear summary that shows full task response and control of cohesion, in line with Band 8–9 criteria.

Band 9 Model Answer (Full Text)

In recent years, many urban areas worldwide have suffered from severe traffic congestion, resulting in a range of challenges for both residents and authorities. This essay will discuss the major problems caused by this issue and suggest some possible solutions.

One of the most significant problems associated with traffic congestion is air pollution. Heavy traffic leads to increased emissions of harmful gases, which can seriously affect people’s health, especially in densely populated cities. In addition, congestion results in lost productivity as commuters spend hours stuck in traffic instead of working or spending time with family. This daily frustration may contribute to higher stress levels and lower quality of life for urban residents.

To address these issues, governments could invest in the development of efficient public transportation systems, such as subways, trams, or rapid bus lines. By providing affordable and reliable alternatives to private cars, cities can encourage more people to use mass transit, thereby reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Additionally, implementing congestion charges in city centers and promoting cycling or carpooling schemes can help ease traffic flow and lower pollution levels.

In conclusion, while traffic congestion poses serious problems for urban populations, such as pollution and reduced productivity, these can be tackled through investment in public transport and the encouragement of more sustainable travel options.

20 Crucial Words for This IELTS Problem/Solution Essay

Master these essential academic words for traffic congestion, urban problems, and solutions. Tap/click each word for details, example, and usage mistakes. Practice these for higher IELTS scores!

congestion ▼

Phonetics: /kənˈdʒes.tʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: traffic/congestion; congestion in/at
Definition: The state of being too crowded or full, especially with vehicles.
Example: “City congestion makes commuting difficult.” (Too many vehicles)
Common synonym: overcrowding
Common mistakes: Spelling (“conjeston”), using for illness (not about roads).

emissions ▼

Phonetics: /ɪˈmɪʃ.ənz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: emissions from/of
Definition: Gases or substances released into the air, usually by cars or factories.
Example: “Vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution.”
Common synonym: pollutants
Common mistakes: Confusing with “permission” or “admission.”

productivity ▼

Phonetics: /ˌprɒd.ʌkˈtɪv.ə.ti/ (BrE), /ˌproʊ.dʌkˈtɪv.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: increase/decrease productivity
Definition: The rate at which work is done or goods are produced.
Example: “Traffic jams decrease workplace productivity.” (Less work is done)
Common synonym: efficiency
Common mistakes: Spelling (“productivity” as “productivy”).

infrastructure ▼

Phonetics: /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ (BrE), /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃɚ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: build/upgrade infrastructure
Definition: The basic physical systems of a city (roads, bridges, etc).
Example: “Modern infrastructure is essential for smooth traffic.”
Common synonym: facilities
Common mistakes: Spelling (“infrastructer”).

commute ▼

Phonetics: /kəˈmjuːt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun, verb
Pattern: daily/long commute; commute to work
Definition: The journey between home and work or school.
Example: “Many people face a long daily commute.”
Common synonym: journey (to work)
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun; it is also a verb.

alternative ▼

Phonetics: /ɔːlˈtɜː.nə.tɪv/ (BrE), /ɑːlˈtɝː.nə.t̬ɪv/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun, adjective
Pattern: alternative to; alternative solution
Definition: Something different that can replace another thing.
Example: “Public transport offers an alternative to private cars.”
Common synonym: option
Common mistakes: Spelling (“alternitive”).

implement ▼

Phonetics: /ˈɪm.plɪ.ment/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: implement a plan/policy/solution
Definition: To put a decision or plan into action.
Example: “The government implemented new traffic laws.”
Common synonym: carry out, enforce
Common mistakes: Spelling (“impliment”), using as a noun (the noun is “implementation”).

pollution ▼

Phonetics: /pəˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: air/water pollution; pollution from
Definition: Harmful substances introduced into the environment.
Example: “Traffic is a major source of air pollution.”
Common synonym: contamination
Common mistakes: Spelling (“polution”).

urban ▼

Phonetics: /ˈɜː.bən/ (BrE), /ˈɝː.bən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: urban area/urban population
Definition: Related to a city or town.
Example: “Urban congestion affects millions.”
Common synonym: city, metropolitan
Common mistakes: Using for “suburban” or “rural.”

sustainable ▼

Phonetics: /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: sustainable development/solutions
Definition: Able to be maintained or continued over time, without harming the environment.
Example: “Sustainable transport reduces environmental impact.”
Common synonym: environmentally friendly
Common mistakes: Spelling (“sustainible”).

authorities ▼

Phonetics: /ɔːˈθɒr.ə.tiz/ (BrE), /əˈθɔːr.ə.t̬iz/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun (plural)
Pattern: local/transport authorities
Definition: People or organizations in power, especially government.
Example: “Local authorities introduced a congestion charge.”
Common synonym: officials, government
Common mistakes: Using singular (“authority”) for a group.

investment ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈvest.mənt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: investment in
Definition: Putting money/resources into something to improve it.
Example: “Investment in public transport is vital.”
Common synonym: funding
Common mistakes: Spelling (“investmant”).

carpooling ▼

Phonetics: /ˈkɑːˌpuː.lɪŋ/ (BrE), /ˈkɑːrˌpuː.lɪŋ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun (uncountable)
Pattern: encourage carpooling
Definition: People sharing a car to reduce traffic.
Example: “Carpooling helps lower congestion.”
Common synonym: ride-sharing
Common mistakes: Spelling (“car-pooling” with dash is less common).

alleviate ▼

Phonetics: /əˈliː.vi.eɪt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: alleviate + problem/pain/congestion
Definition: To make something less severe.
Example: “Better buses can alleviate rush hour congestion.”
Common synonym: reduce, ease
Common mistakes: Using with “from” (“alleviate from” is incorrect).

charges ▼

Phonetics: /ˈtʃɑː.dʒɪz/ (BrE), /ˈtʃɑːr.dʒɪz/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: congestion/parking charges
Definition: Money paid for using roads/parking, to reduce use.
Example: “Congestion charges reduced car traffic in London.”
Common synonym: fees
Common mistakes: Spelling (“cherges”).

efficient ▼

Phonetics: /ɪˈfɪʃ.ənt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: efficient system/transport
Definition: Doing something in a way that saves time, energy, or money.
Example: “Efficient public transport reduces delays.”
Common synonym: effective
Common mistakes: Using for people (should be “efficient worker” not “efficiency person”).

reliable ▼

Phonetics: /rɪˈlaɪ.ə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: reliable service/transport
Definition: Can be trusted to work well or to be on time.
Example: “Reliable trains attract more commuters.”
Common synonym: dependable
Common mistakes: Spelling (“relaiable”).

frustration ▼

Phonetics: /frʌsˈtreɪ.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: experience/feel frustration
Definition: Feeling annoyed because you can’t do what you want.
Example: “Commuters feel frustration in long traffic jams.”
Common synonym: annoyance, irritation
Common mistakes: Spelling (“frustation”).

initiative ▼

Phonetics: /ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: government/urban initiative
Definition: A plan or action to solve a problem.
Example: “The bike-sharing initiative was successful.”
Common synonym: project, scheme
Common mistakes: Spelling (“iniciative”).

scheme ▼

Phonetics: /skiːm/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: introduce/launch a scheme
Definition: An organized plan or system to solve a problem.
Example: “A car-sharing scheme helped reduce traffic.”
Common synonym: program, plan
Common mistakes: Using as a verb (“to scheme” means to plot, negative meaning).

20 Crucial Phrases & Expressions for IELTS Problem/Solution Essays

Learn and practice these advanced expressions for describing problems, solutions, and urban issues. Tap/click each phrase for meaning, examples, and usage notes!

face serious congestion ▼

Phonetics: /feɪs ˈsɪə.ri.əs kənˈdʒes.tʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: face serious congestion/problems
Definition: To experience major traffic or overcrowding issues.
Example: “Many cities face serious congestion during rush hour.”
Common synonym: suffer from heavy traffic
Common mistakes: Using “have congestion” (not idiomatic for cities).

pose a challenge ▼

Phonetics: /pəʊz ə ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒ/ (BrE), /poʊz ə ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: pose a challenge/threat/problem
Definition: To create a difficult situation.
Example: “Traffic jams pose a challenge for city planners.”
Common synonym: create a difficulty
Common mistakes: Using “make a challenge.”

result in lost productivity ▼

Phonetics: /rɪˈzʌlt ɪn lɒst ˌprɒd.ʌkˈtɪv.ə.ti/ (BrE), /rɪˈzʌlt ɪn lɔːst ˌproʊ.dʌkˈtɪv.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: result in + noun
Definition: To cause work or efficiency to decrease.
Example: “Congestion results in lost productivity for businesses.”
Common synonym: cause inefficiency
Common mistakes: Using “results to” (should be “in”).

contribute to air pollution ▼

Phonetics: /kənˈtrɪb.juːt tuː eə pəˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE), /kənˈtrɪb.juːt tuː er pəˈluː.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: contribute to + noun
Definition: To help cause air pollution.
Example: “Cars contribute to air pollution in cities.”
Common synonym: add to, cause
Common mistakes: Using “contribute for” or “contribute in.”

invest in public transport ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈvest ɪn ˈpʌb.lɪk ˈtræn.spɔːt/ (BrE), /ɪnˈvest ɪn ˈpʌb.lɪk ˈtræn.spɔːrt/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: invest in + noun
Definition: To spend money on buses, trains, etc.
Example: “Governments should invest in public transport.”
Common synonym: fund, finance
Common mistakes: Using “invest to” or “invest for.”

ease traffic flow ▼

Phonetics: /iːz ˈtræf.ɪk fləʊ/ (BrE), /iːz ˈtræf.ɪk floʊ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: ease traffic flow/congestion
Definition: To make traffic move more smoothly.
Example: “New bus lanes ease traffic flow.”
Common synonym: improve, facilitate
Common mistakes: Using “make easier the traffic.”

encourage carpooling ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈkʌr.ɪdʒ ˈkɑːˌpuː.lɪŋ/ (BrE), /ɪnˈkɝː.ɪdʒ ˈkɑːrˌpuː.lɪŋ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: encourage carpooling/ride-sharing
Definition: To support people sharing cars to reduce traffic.
Example: “Firms encourage carpooling among employees.”
Common synonym: promote ride-sharing
Common mistakes: Using “make carpooling.”

implement a congestion charge ▼

Phonetics: /ˈɪm.plɪ.ment ə kənˈdʒes.tʃən tʃɑːdʒ/ (BrE), /ˈɪm.plə.ment ə kənˈdʒes.tʃən tʃɑːrdʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: implement/introduce a congestion charge
Definition: To make people pay to use busy roads.
Example: “London implemented a congestion charge in 2003.”
Common synonym: introduce a toll
Common mistakes: Using “do congestion charge.”

reduce the reliance on private cars ▼

Phonetics: /rɪˈdjuːs ðə rɪˈlaɪəns ɒn ˈpraɪ.vət kɑːz/ (BrE), /rɪˈduːs ðə rɪˈlaɪəns ɑn ˈpraɪ.vət kɑːrz/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: reduce the reliance on + noun
Definition: To depend less on cars for travel.
Example: “Buses reduce the reliance on private cars.”
Common synonym: cut dependence on
Common mistakes: Using “from” (“reliance from”).

encourage behavioural change ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈkʌr.ɪdʒ bɪˈheɪ.vjə.rəl tʃeɪndʒ/ (BrE), /ɪnˈkɝː.ɪdʒ bɪˈheɪ.vjə.rəl tʃeɪndʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: encourage + noun
Definition: To help people change their habits.
Example: “Campaigns encourage behavioural change in drivers.”
Common synonym: promote new habits
Common mistakes: Using “behaviour changing.”

offer a viable solution ▼

Phonetics: /ˈɒf.ər ə ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl səˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE), /ˈɑː.fɚ ə ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl səˈluː.ʃən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: offer a/an + solution/option
Definition: To provide a practical answer.
Example: “Trams offer a viable solution for busy cities.”
Common synonym: provide a workable answer
Common mistakes: Using “offer solution” (missing “a”).

be stuck in traffic ▼

Phonetics: /bi stʌk ɪn ˈtræf.ɪk/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: be/get stuck in + noun
Definition: To be unable to move in a traffic jam.
Example: “Commuters are often stuck in traffic for hours.”
Common synonym: be delayed
Common mistakes: Using “stuck on traffic.”

launch an initiative ▼

Phonetics: /lɔːntʃ ən ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/ (BrE), /lɑːntʃ ən ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: launch/introduce an initiative
Definition: To start a plan to solve a problem.
Example: “The city launched an initiative to promote cycling.”
Common synonym: start a program
Common mistakes: Using “do an initiative.”

enforce traffic laws ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈfɔːs ˈtræf.ɪk lɔːz/ (BrE), /ɪnˈfɔːrs ˈtræf.ɪk lɑːz/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: enforce + law/rule
Definition: To make sure people follow the rules.
Example: “Police enforce traffic laws to prevent accidents.”
Common synonym: uphold, apply
Common mistakes: Using “force” alone (needs “en-”).

upgrade infrastructure ▼

Phonetics: /ʌpˈɡreɪd ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ (BrE), /ʌpˈɡreɪd ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃɚ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: upgrade + infrastructure/facilities
Definition: To improve roads, bridges, and systems.
Example: “The city upgraded its infrastructure last year.”
Common synonym: improve facilities
Common mistakes: Using “make upgrade” (unnecessary).

encourage cycling ▼

Phonetics: /ɪnˈkʌr.ɪdʒ ˈsaɪ.klɪŋ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: encourage cycling/public transport
Definition: To support people riding bikes.
Example: “New bike lanes encourage cycling.”
Common synonym: promote cycling
Common mistakes: Using “make cycling encouraged.”

adopt new schemes ▼

Phonetics: /əˈdɒpt njuː skiːmz/ (BrE), /əˈdɑːpt nuː skiːmz/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: adopt new schemes/strategies
Definition: To start using new plans or methods.
Example: “Many cities adopt new schemes for green transport.”
Common synonym: implement plans
Common mistakes: Using “adapt” (which means change, not use).

address the root causes ▼

Phonetics: /əˈdres ðə ruːt ˈkɔːzɪz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: address + the root causes of
Definition: To deal with the main reasons for a problem.
Example: “Long-term solutions address the root causes of congestion.”
Common synonym: tackle underlying issues
Common mistakes: Using “address to” (incorrect preposition).

improve quality of life ▼

Phonetics: /ɪmˈpruːv ˈkwɒl.ɪ.ti əv laɪf/ (BrE), /ɪmˈpruːv ˈkwɑː.lə.t̬i əv laɪf/ (AmE)
Part of speech: verb phrase
Pattern: improve/increase quality of life
Definition: To make living conditions better.
Example: “Green spaces improve the quality of life in cities.”
Common synonym: enhance living standards
Common mistakes: Saying “life quality.”

long-term benefit ▼

Phonetics: /ˌlɒŋ ˈtɜːm ˈben.ɪ.fɪt/ (BrE), /ˌlɑːŋ ˈtɝːm ˈben.ə.fɪt/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun phrase
Pattern: have/bring/offer long-term benefit
Definition: Advantage that lasts a long time.
Example: “Investment in subways brings long-term benefit.”
Common synonym: lasting advantage
Common mistakes: Saying “benefit long-term.”

Interactive Exercise 1: Crucial Words & Phrases

Test your understanding of the 20 key words and phrases! Select the best answer for each question and receive instant feedback with detailed explanations.

Which word best describes “the state of being too crowded with vehicles, especially in a city”?

A) productivity B) congestion C) initiative

“Implement a congestion charge” means:

A) Reduce traffic lights B) Make people pay to use busy roads C) Build new highways

What is a synonym for “authorities” in the context of city management?

A) officials B) citizens C) companies

Which phrase means “to help reduce the seriousness of a problem”?

A) result in lost productivity B) alleviate congestion C) invest in public transport

“Carpooling” is best described as:

A) Sharing a car with others B) Fixing your own car C) Driving in bus lanes

What is the opposite of “efficient” when describing a transport system?

A) sustainable B) reliable C) inefficient

“Urban” is closest in meaning to:

A) city B) village C) mountain

“Result in lost productivity” means:

A) To improve working conditions B) To cause a decrease in efficiency or output C) To reward workers

What is a “viable solution”?

A) A solution that is unlikely to work B) A solution that is practical and realistic C) A solution that is expensive

“Investment in infrastructure” refers to:

A) Spending money to improve roads, bridges, etc. B) Hiring new employees C) Reducing public transport

Interactive Exercise 2: Band 7+ Words & Phrases in Context

Ready for a challenge? Choose the best answer. Each question checks if you can use academic words and expressions naturally in IELTS context. Click to see deep explanations!

If a city “adopts new schemes” for transport, what does it do?

A) Changes existing roads only B) Starts using new plans or systems C) Removes all traffic lights

Which phrase is the best academic way to say “helps to make traffic move better”?

A) faces congestion B) eases traffic flow C) results in lost productivity

“Contribute to air pollution” means:

A) To reduce air pollution B) To help cause air pollution C) To measure air pollution

Select the phrase that means “to depend less on cars”:

A) improve infrastructure B) reduce the reliance on private cars C) offer a viable solution

What do “sustainable solutions” focus on?

A) Solutions that are short-term only B) Solutions that can continue for a long time and help the environment C) Expensive solutions

“Be stuck in traffic” means:

A) To be delayed because of a traffic jam B) To drive very fast C) To fix a broken car

Which is a formal academic synonym for “plan” or “system” (used in essays)?

A) scheme B) fix C) chance

Which collocation is best in IELTS essays for city traffic problems?

A) face serious congestion B) do congestion C) have congestion to

“Long-term benefit” refers to:

A) An advantage that lasts many years B) A solution for today only C) Something that is temporary

What does it mean to “address the root causes” of congestion?

A) Ignore the main problems B) Deal with the most important reasons for congestion C) Add more cars to the road

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6. Ultra-Interactive IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution) Tutorial with Band 9 Model Answer, Vocabulary & Exercises

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Step-by-Step Band 9+ Tutorial (Problem/Solution Essay) (LingExam | Ultra-Interactive)

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6. Ultra-Interactive IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 (Problem/Solution) Tutorial with Band 9 Model Answer, Vocabulary & Exercises

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