Here's a basic overview of how to write a problem-solution paper.
1As with any paper, write an outline first to get your thoughts organized. First you should define the problem at the top of the outline. It should really be one succinct sentence.Ad
2Research your problem. Be sure to use a variety of media, including academic databases, text sources, and magazine articles as well as the Internet. Remember! As awesome as Wikipedia is, it is not a valid reference for academic papers. Do, however, browse the citation links at the bottom of a Wikipedia page.
3In your outline, make a bullet point for each possible solution to the problem and certain talking points you'd like to discuss, as well as what reference materials you will be citing so you have a quick reference.
4Once your outline is done, you are ready to write your first draft. Your paper should ideally follow this pattern:
- An introductory paragraph defining the scope of the problem
- A couple of paragraphs describing the resources and process for each solution, the similarities and differences
- Concluded by what you feel is the ideal solution and why. Your rough draft should be just a first run where you put your thoughts into full sentences in the paper format.
5For your second draft, you should go through and make sure you have citations for any facts or ideas that are not your own. It is important to use citations as to avoid being accused of plagiarism, even if it was unintended. Add to any points you feel don't have enough information. You should also use the spell and grammar check, as well as read over the paper aloud to try to find any errors. Having someone else check your paper for errors is also a good idea, since it's usually hard to find them in something you wrote yourself.
6Write your works cited page. Make sure it follows the format required for your class (usually MLA). There are many free online resources to help you format your works cited page.
7If your paper requires a cover page, make sure it has the title of your paper, the name, date, class, and professor/teacher it is for.Ad
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- Take breaks! Most great ideas happen when you aren't trying to think of them.
- Make sure to give yourself a realistic amount of time to complete your paper.
- As well as researching solutions to the problem you are writing about, it is a good idea to try and think of an original solution. Putting forth the effort to come up with an original idea may help your grade if your paper isn't perfect.
- As mentioned above, be sure to cite all sources. Even if you aren't claiming the information as your own, a lack of a citation implies such, and is viewed as plagiarism in many institutions, even if you reworded the information. If you aren't sure about something, cite it anyway.