Process for preparing a solution of a polysaccharide or polysaccharide ether having a viscosity of 1,000 mPa.multidot.s or less comprising adding to an aqueous medium a polysaccharide or polysaccharide ether and an alkaline depolymerization agent. Also disclosed is a solid composition comprising a polysaccharide ether and an alkaline depolymerization agent. Preferably, the depolymerization agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate, carbamide peroxide in combination with a base, sodium persulfate in combination with a base, 3-chloroperoxybenzoic acid in combination with a base, and mixtures thereof.