use of subjunctive in interrogatives after verbs like penser

Question

I knew that in inverted questions you use the subjunctive after verbs like 'Pensez-vous...'  If you start the question however with 'Est-ce que vous pensez...?' does that rule about the subjunctive not apply?  I ask because I had put 'Est-ce que vous pensez que ce soit un problème structurel' and this was marked with a correction to '.......c'est' instead of 'ce soit'

Céline Pickard · Accepted Answer

Bonjour Sarah,
In general, with a verb like "penser" (= to think), you state an opinion as a fact. So, you will use the indicative mood. For example, saying "Vous pensez que c'est un problème structurel" expresses a firm opinion. So, when you form a question like "Est-ce que vous pensez que c'est un problème structurel ?", you’re neutrally asking for someone’s opinion, so the indicative mood ("c'est") is the appropriate choice.
The inversion form ("Pensez-vous que ce soit...") is associated with a nuance of doubt or subjectivity, which will require the use of Le Subjonctif. It is also a very formal structure.
Jim is also correct: "penser is not being used here in a negative sense then the subjunctive is not required."
Take a look here too (although it is about the verb "prétendre"):
Prétendre que
I hope this is helpful.
Bonne journée !

Jim Jones · Answer

Bonjour Sarah,It occurs to me that because penser is not being used here in a negative sense then the subjunctive is not required.No doubt is being expressed, simply querying "Do you not think ..." as an interrogative construction seeking clarification.This is why c'est is replacing ce soit as I see it.Bonne journéeJim