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Problem-Solutionacademic·2024

Sleep deprivation has become a common problem in modern society. What are the causes and what solutions can be implemented?

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

Structure your body paragraphs by dedicating one to the causes of sleep deprivation and another to the solutions. Ensure that each solution you propose directly addresses a specific cause you've identified, creating a clear cause-and-effect relationship for the examiner.

2

When discussing causes, you could cite the 'always-on' culture prevalent in tech industries like Silicon Valley, leading to burnout, or mention the impact of shift work on circadian rhythms, a common issue in healthcare and logistics. For solutions, consider governmental initiatives like South Korea's efforts to reduce working hours or public health campaigns promoting 'digital detox' practices before bedtime.

3

A common mistake is offering generic solutions that don't specifically tackle the stated problems, or simply describing sleep deprivation without analyzing its root causes in depth. To avoid this, explicitly link each solution back to a cause, for example, 'To counter the pervasive influence of digital devices (cause), stricter personal screen time management (solution) is crucial.'

4

For transitioning between the causes and solutions paragraphs, use phrases that clearly signal a shift from problem identification to resolution. Effective transitions include 'In light of these contributing factors, several solutions can be implemented to mitigate the issue,' or 'Addressing these underlying causes, a multi-faceted approach is required to foster better sleep habits.'

5

Examiners look for a nuanced understanding of both societal and individual factors contributing to sleep deprivation, coupled with practical, well-justified solutions. A band 8-9 response will demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary related to health and lifestyle, complex sentence structures, and a coherent argument where solutions logically flow from the identified problems, showcasing a deep engagement with the prompt.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.

  • Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
  • State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
  • Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...
2
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument

Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.

  • Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
  • Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
  • Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument

Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.

  • Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
  • Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
  • Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...
4
Conclusion

Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.

  • Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
  • Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
  • Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

circadian rhythmThe natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours.
sedentary lifestyleA type of lifestyle with no or irregular physical activity.
blue light exposureThe emission of blue light from electronic devices, which can suppress melatonin production and disrupt sleep.
profound implicationsSignificant and far-reaching consequences or effects.
exacerbate the problemTo make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.
predicated on the notionBased or established on a particular idea or belief.
it is imperative thatIt is absolutely essential or crucial that something happens.
a compelling argument can be madeThere is a strong and convincing reason or set of reasons to support a particular point of view.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
consequentlyAs a result; therefore.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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