A solution to their problemSimple, yet effective, the problem-solution article structure pulls your reader in with a problem they have, and promises a solution in the text below. ① First, present a problem—really try to get in your reader’s head. For health topics, I imagine I have a concerning symptom and I want to know what’s going on. I ask, “What would I want to read right now, feeling like this?" ② Then, you lay out the background—information they need to know to understand their solution. For example, if I’m writing an article on getting better sleep, I’ll explain how sleep works, why it’s important, and what kinds of things can get in the way of solid snoozing. ③ Then comes my favorite part—the solution. You get to swoop in with exactly what they’re looking for: a path forward. For some pieces, this will be cut and dry. But even when it’s not, you can give helpful suggestions and direct them on where to find more information or who else to ask. The key? Make it approachable. No one wants a solution that feels like homework. This format works because people love feeling understood and empowered. Life is full of little struggles, and if your writing can offer relief—even in a small way—it’s a win. If the problem isn’t totally solved, at least they walk away knowing they’re not alone in it. Sometimes, that’s just as helpful.
|
