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In Task 2, you need to support your ideas with examples.  So, let’s take an example question like

“The government should ban smoking in all public places, even though this would restrict some other people’s freedoms.

Do you agree or disagree?”

First, you need to know that the question is asking for your opinion, nothing else.  You don’t have to balance this type of question and argue both sides.  Imagine if you were in a café and were asked this question, would you argue against your own ideas or just present what you think?  Probably the latter, and this is what you need to do in IELTS.

You need to write 2 body paragraphs, both supporting your position.  Let’s take the position that we agree with the statement; it’s generally easier.  Now you need ideas and supporting examples.  One way of doing this is

• Body paragraph 1 – a personal example (Yes, you can use them in IELTS, in fact we encourage you to use them)
• Body paragraph 2 – a newspaper article or university paper.

Idea 1 – smoking in public places affects the health of the people around them so is should be banned

Supporting example – My aunt owns a bar in a country pub which allowed smoking.  Even though she has never smoked in her life, every winter she developed a chest infection that left her breathless and coughing.  However, since the government banned smoking inside public places 3 years ago, she hasn’t had her usual chest infection and has been able to work through the winter without any problems.  This shows that banning smoking in public places has huge benefits for non-smokers’ lives.  (79 words)

Idea 2 – people’s freedoms wouldn’t be restricted because they can smoke in designated smoking zones.

Supporting example – In the Guardian newspaper last week, I read an article that explained that government in Japan had managed to find the middle ground.  They have created smoking zones in streets, companies and restaurants where people can smoke.  Although they are in enclosed areas, smokers said that they appreciated that the government had made provisions for them and didn’t feel that their right to smoke was being infringed. This shows that it is possible to impose a ban and find the middle ground to accommodate everyone.   (85 words)

You can use this pattern for any IELTS Task 2.  You will need to use your imagination but no examiner is ever going to check the authenticity of your answer.  As long as it is believable, it is fine.

If you need your IELTS writing evaluated by an IELTS examiner, you can purchase a correction here.  If you have any questions about the IELTS writing or speaking exam then get in touch.