Problem-Solution Paper Outline
*Please pay attention to the source requirements for each section. You may reuse sources (while
maintaining the minimum 5 source requirement) but you may NOT reuse the same quotes/paraphrases.
Introduction (2 paragraphs, Cite at least 1 source in this section.)
– Introduce the topic with an anecdote from your experience or your research. Present it in the form of a
story or a scenario.
– What is the problem? Define and briefly explain the issue.
Causes and Effects of the Problem (2-4 paragraphs, Cite at least 2 sources (1 per paragraph) in this section)
– What is the primary cause of this problem and what is the primary effect?
– What is a secondary cause of this problem and what is the secondary effect?
– Consider who or what is affected by this problem, how they are affected, and/or how people are affected
locally, nationally, and/or globally?
Overview of Less Effective Current Solutions (1-2 paragraphs, Cite at least 2 sources in this section)
– Who is working to solve this problem? (You may consider government groups, political groups, human
rights organizations, non-profit organizations.)
– What are they doing? How well is it working?
Most Effective Current Solution (1 paragraph, Cite at least 1 source in this paragraph)
– State your thesis clearly. (Your thesis is your argument – what you think the most effective solution is
– Introduce the most effective current solution. Give background on who created this solution, where it is in
effect, etc. (You will discuss this solution for the remainder of your argument.)
Counterarguments and Rebuttals (1-2 paragraphs, Cite at least 1 source in this section)
– Consider and briefly explain why people may disagree with the current solution that you chose to defend.
Rebut these critics to support your argument.
– You may do a second paragraph if you have two counterarguments and rebuttals to address. (Use the
counter-rebuttal frame.)
– This paragraph is meant to analyze the pros/cons of the solution you identified as most effective.
Conclusion with Call to Action (1 paragraph)
– How will this solution ultimately help solve the problem? How much of an effect do you think it will
have?
– What do you want your audience to do after reading your paper? How can they help or get involved with
fixing the problem?Works Cited
– All sources cited in your paper must be included in this section.
You need a minimum of 5 sources.
