justIELTS

Write better, score higher.

IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Smoking is prohibited in public places in many countries. Many office authorities also impose restrictions on smoking within the office premises. While many people welcome this restriction and suggest that smoking should be banned, others, however, feel that it takes away some of our freedom. What are your opinions on this? Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

Write at least 250 words.

😩 Feeling stuck? View sample answers below ⬇️ or get another random Task 2 topic.

🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Smoking is prohibited in public places in many countries. Many office authorities also impose restrictions on smoking within the office premises. While many people welcome this restriction and suggest that smoking should be banned, others, however, feel that it takes away some of our freedom. What are your opinions on this?

In many countries, smoking is not allowed in public places, and some office buildings also have rules against smoking inside the premises. Some individuals support these restrictions and believe that smoking should be completely banned, while others argue that it infringes on personal freedom. In my opinion, smoking should be prohibited in public places and office spaces for the betterment of public health and the well-being of non-smokers.

Firstly, smoking in public places poses a significant health risk to non-smokers, including children and elderly individuals. Secondhand smoke can cause respiratory problems and exacerbate existing health conditions. By implementing a ban on smoking in public areas, the authorities are protecting the health of the general population and reducing the negative impact of secondhand smoke.

Furthermore, prohibiting smoking in office premises creates a healthier and more productive work environment. Non-smoking employees should not be exposed to the harmful effects of secondhand smoke while at work. Additionally, the smell of smoke can be unpleasant and distracting, affecting the overall ambiance of the workplace. Therefore, a smoke-free policy can lead to improved productivity and employee satisfaction.

On the other hand, some argue that smoking restrictions take away personal freedom. However, it is essential to consider the well-being of the majority and the negative impact of smoking on public health. Personal freedom should not come at the expense of others' health and well-being.

In conclusion, I believe that smoking should be prohibited in public places and office premises. The benefits of such restrictions, including improved public health and a healthier work environment, outweigh concerns about personal freedom. It is crucial for authorities to continue implementing and enforcing smoking bans to create a safer and healthier society.

Model Essay #2:

Smoking is prohibited in public places in many countries. Many office authorities also impose restrictions on smoking within the office premises. While many people welcome this restriction and suggest that smoking should be banned, others, however, feel that it takes away some of our freedom. What are your opinions on this?

While it is true that smoking is prohibited in many public places and office premises, some people argue that such restrictions encroach upon personal freedom. Although I acknowledge the health risks associated with smoking, I believe that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices, as long as they do not directly harm others.

Firstly, it is important to respect the rights of individuals to make their own decisions, even if those decisions may not align with popular opinion. Banning smoking in public places and offices could be viewed as a violation of personal autonomy. People should have the freedom to engage in legal activities, such as smoking, without facing excessive restrictions.

Moreover, enforcing strict smoking bans may lead to social isolation for smokers. By confining smokers to designated areas or banning smoking altogether, society may inadvertently stigmatize and marginalize individuals who smoke. This could negatively impact their mental well-being and sense of belonging within the community.

Additionally, it is essential to consider alternative approaches to addressing the issue of smoking, such as promoting education and awareness about the health risks associated with smoking. Empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and well-being can be more effective than imposing blanket restrictions.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge the health concerns related to smoking, I believe that individuals should have the freedom to choose whether or not to smoke in public places and office premises. Imposing strict bans on smoking may infringe upon personal freedom and lead to unintended social consequences. Instead, a balanced approach that respects individual autonomy while promoting education and awareness about the risks of smoking would be more appropriate.

✍️ Evaluate your essay for free

You can submit your essay for free evaluation. We will provide you with your score and give you feedback on how to improve your essay.

Sign in or register to submit your essay.

🤓 More IELTS Writing Task 2 topics

Get a random essay topic or choose from topics below:

Or view the list of all tasks.