Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay: IELTS Writing Task

Latest Update:  The upcoming latest IELTS May test dates are as follows: 08th May, 2025 (recently closed) 17th May. 2025 24th May, 2025

More than 3 million IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exams are taken annually, making it the most widely used English language test. Among these, the Writing Task is crucial as it significantly impacts your overall score.

This section can address many controversial topics, such as, Should smoking be banned in public places essay. Understanding both sides of a contentious issue is essential for crafting a well-rounded, high-scoring IELTS essay, as it tests your ability to present coherent arguments and use proper grammar and vocabulary.

This blog discusses the importance of addressing the topic of smoking bans in public spaces in your IELTS writing task and explains how presenting a balanced view can enhance your argument and improve your band score. With solid examples and factual data, let’s help you tackle this essay effectively.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places: Top 6 IELTS Essay Samples

Among the various types of IELTS exams, a balanced argument is required in the IELTS Writing Task 2, especially when discussing topics like, Should smoking be banned in public places essay.

Understanding the importance of such topics and their complexities, and crafting your opinions into IELTS essays highlighting both sides of the argument, can lead to higher scores. 

A band score of 7 or higher in IELTS Writing is considered a solid achievement, while a score of 7.5 or 8 indicates an expert command of the language, suitable for top-tier university studies or professional settings.

Let’s explore various perspectives on this IELTS writing task: Essay on smoking in public places through IELTS essay writing samples, each showing different approaches within the specified word count.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay 1 - Under 100 Words

Focus & Argument: This essay highlights the severe health risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure in public places, particularly the harm it causes to non-smokers.

So let's see this essay ahead! 

Smoking in public spaces poses a serious threat to non-smokers due to the dangers of secondhand smoke. Studies by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that exposure to secondhand smoke is responsible for approximately 1.2 million deaths annually. This exposure causes various health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. To protect public health, smoking in public areas should be banned. The ban would significantly reduce the risks faced by non-smokers, ensuring cleaner, healthier environments for everyone, especially children and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Strategy: In a 100-word essay, your message must be clear. Focus on the core issue, public health, without unnecessary details.

• Use precise language: Opt for strong, clear language like “health hazard,” “lung disease,” and “secondhand smoke” to quickly drive the point home.
• Stick to one key point: Avoid introducing too many arguments. Narrowing down to a single argument (e.g., health risks) will give you a sharper focus.

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Now, let’s look at a more refined argument that weighs personal freedoms against public health concerns.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay 2 - Under 200 Words

Focus & Argument: This essay explores the conflict between individual rights and public health. It argues that while smokers have the right to smoke, this should not come at the cost of others' health.

Here’s how you can write it:

The debate over banning smoking in public places often centers on the conflict between individual rights and public health. Smokers argue that they should be allowed to smoke in public spaces as part of their personal freedom. However, this ignores the detrimental effects on non-smokers who may be exposed to secondhand smoke. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that secondhand smoke exposure leads to more than 41,000 deaths in the United States each year. While personal freedoms are important, public health must take precedence. Non-smokers also have the right to breathe clean air in shared spaces. Smoking bans are not a denial of individual rights but a necessary regulation to protect the well-being of the general population. Cities like New York and London have implemented smoking bans in public spaces, and studies show a significant decrease in smoking-related health issues since these laws were introduced. Therefore, the focus should be on safeguarding public health, even if it means restricting smoking in certain public areas.

Strategy: In 200 words, you have space to present both sides of the argument. Acknowledge individual freedoms, but counterbalance with the undeniable impact on public health.

• Use transitional phrases: Phrases like "On the other hand," "However," and "In contrast" can help smoothly transition between your points, making the essay easier to follow.
• End with a strong stance: In conclusion, don’t hesitate to lean towards one side, but always back it with solid reasoning, such as data on secondhand smoke or the costs of smoking-related diseases.

To further improve your writing skills and get a feel for different types of health-related IELTS essay prompts, check out IELTS practice Essay on Health!

Moving on, let’s now examine the environmental effects of smoking in public spaces, particularly concerning littering and pollution.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay 3 - Under 250 Words

Focus & Argument: This essay discusses the environmental impact of smoking in public spaces, specifically focusing on cigarette litter and the pollution caused by smoking in shared areas.

Read ahead!

Here’s how you can write it:

Smoking in public places not only harms the health of non-smokers but also leads to significant environmental pollution. Cigarette butts are one of the most commonly discarded forms of litter, and their environmental impact is often underestimated. According to the Clean Up Australia Foundation, cigarette butts account for 30% of all litter collected in public spaces. These butts do not biodegrade quickly and can remain in the environment for up to 12 years, leaching harmful chemicals into the soil and waterways. Public smoking also contributes to air pollution. Studies show that even outdoor smoking can impact air quality, especially in crowded places. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that secondhand smoke in outdoor areas can significantly affect air quality, creating a harmful environment for everyone, including children and people with respiratory conditions. By implementing smoking bans in public places, not only would public health be protected, but the environment would benefit as well. Several countries, such as Germany, Australia, and the UK, have already taken steps to address this issue by banning smoking in outdoor public areas. These policies have led to cleaner streets and reduced pollution, creating more pleasant spaces for everyone. Banning smoking in public places is an effective strategy for reducing environmental damage and improving overall public health.

Strategy: Support your argument with studies or real-world data. For example, mention the environmental impact of cigarette butts, using statistics like "Cigarette butts account for 30% of global litter."

• Link the environment with health: Not only do cigarette butts pollute, but they also contain harmful toxins that leach into the soil and water. Connect this to public health to strengthen your argument.
• Be specific: Avoid vague statements. Mention areas or countries that have successfully reduced smoking-related litter, like the UK or New York.

Along with these, check out an 8-band essay on “Prevention is Better than Cure", where you learn how to tackle this thought-provoking topic in IELTS!

Next, you’ll explore how smoking bans in public places may impact businesses and the economy.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay 4 - Under 300 Words

Focus & Argument: This essay examines how smoking bans in public spaces affect businesses, particularly those in the hospitality industry, and whether these restrictions lead to long-term economic benefits.

Here’s how you can proceed with this:

One argument against smoking bans in public places is the potential negative impact on businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry. Critics argue that smoking restrictions in outdoor areas could reduce foot traffic, as smokers might choose venues where they are allowed to smoke. Research by the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation supports this, indicating that some bars and restaurants faced a temporary drop in business after smoking bans were enforced. However, this view doesn’t account for long-term trends. Studies show that smoking bans, while initially disruptive, can have a positive economic effect over time. A 2015 study by the National Cancer Institute revealed that smoking bans in public spaces actually boosted restaurant and bar patronage, with non-smokers feeling more comfortable in smoke-free environments. This shift can lead to higher overall sales and a broader customer base, particularly as more people prefer smoke-free social spaces. Additionally, the financial burden of smoking-related health issues, such as lung cancer and heart disease, places a substantial strain on healthcare systems. According to the CDC, smoking costs the U.S. over $300 billion annually in medical expenses and lost productivity. By reducing smoking rates, smoking bans alleviate some of these healthcare costs, leading to lower insurance premiums and reduced taxes for the public. In the long run, smoking bans contribute to healthier communities and a more sustainable economy. As more people opt for smoke-free environments, businesses in these areas benefit from a larger and more diverse clientele, while society as a whole experiences improved public health and reduced healthcare burdens. The overall economic impact of banning smoking in public places is beneficial, especially as more people choose smoke-free environments, leading to healthier and more sustainable communities.

Strategy: Acknowledge that some businesses may struggle with a smoking ban but emphasize the long-term economic benefits, such as increased patronage from non-smokers and reduced healthcare costs.

• Use economic data: Cite studies or statistics about the economic burden of smoking, like the estimated $300 billion annually in smoking-related healthcare costs in the U.S. (CDC).
• Offer a balanced conclusion: Acknowledge the concerns of businesses but conclude by focusing on the broader societal benefits, including healthier communities and lower healthcare costs.

Want to ace your IELTS with a solid essay on modern issues? Here’s a guide on how to write an IELTS essay on Modern Technology!

Now, let’s take a closer look at the social implications of smoking, particularly in cultural contexts.

Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay 5 - Under 350 Words

Focus & Argument: This essay discusses smoking as a cultural practice in certain societies and its social impact, particularly how public smoking affects non-smokers and younger generations.

Proceed ahead:

In many societies, smoking is more than just a habit; it is a deeply ingrained cultural practice. In India, for example, smoking is often seen as a social activity, where people gather at public spaces like parks and cafés to smoke. It is a tradition in many social and cultural gatherings, such as weddings and festivals, where the act of smoking has a cultural and symbolic significance. However, despite its cultural roots, public smoking presents significant health risks and social implications. The presence of smoking in social settings can normalize the behavior, especially for young people. Studies from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that adolescents who are exposed to smoking in social settings are more likely to begin smoking at an early age. In countries where smoking in public places is common, such as India and Japan, smoking rates among youth remain high, largely due to cultural factors. Furthermore, smoking in public places can have negative social implications. Non-smokers are often forced to endure the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, leading to discomfort and health risks. Public smoking can also create divisions between smokers and non-smokers, reducing social cohesion in public spaces. For instance, a study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that people who are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke report lower levels of social well-being and higher stress levels. While it is important to respect cultural practices, the negative social and health implications of public smoking cannot be ignored. Public smoking bans have proven to be an effective way to reduce smoking rates and promote healthier behaviors. Over time, cultural norms can evolve, and smoking in public spaces can become less socially acceptable, leading to a reduction in smoking rates and better public health outcomes.

Strategy: Briefly address why smoking is a cultural practice in some societies, but focus on how public health concerns outweigh cultural traditions.

• Highlight societal change: Discuss how social norms can shift over time, such as how smoking was once seen as glamorous but is now increasingly viewed as a public health threat.
• Use real-world examples: Mention countries where smoking bans were initially controversial but eventually led to a cultural shift, like Ireland, which led to a smoking ban in public places in 2004.

Explore this IELTS Agree or Disagree Format and Sample Essays. Learn the proper structure & sharpen your argumentation to help you write an essay that earns top marks.

Finally, let’s look at a broader question: how should governments regulate smoking in public places to balance individual rights and public health?

Bonus IELTS writing task: Essay on smoking in public places

Focus & Argument: This bonus essay examines the role of government regulation in controlling smoking in public spaces, exploring both public health benefits and smokers' rights.

Read the essay ahead in detail:

Here’s how you can write it:

The question of how far governments should regulate smoking in public places is one that invites debate on the balance between public health and individual freedoms. The increasing body of evidence on the dangers of secondhand smoke has led many countries to take significant steps in protecting non-smokers. For instance, Australia implemented a national smoking ban in all enclosed public spaces in 2007, which has resulted in a substantial decrease in smoking rates and related health issues. Governments must regulate smoking in public places to protect the health of the general population, especially vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Moreover, these regulations not only safeguard non-smokers but also contribute to creating a cleaner and healthier environment. While smokers may argue that their personal freedoms are being restricted, the rights of non-smokers to a smoke-free environment are equally important. That said, the government should consider implementing smoking areas or designated smoking zones, particularly in outdoor spaces, to strike a balance between individual rights and public health. A meaningful approach, where smoking is restricted in heavily populated areas but still allowed in controlled environments, can achieve this balance.

Strategy: Rather than taking an extreme stance, suggest a balanced solution (e.g., designated smoking areas) while acknowledging the role of government in protecting public health.

• Use authoritative references: Mention credible sources like the WHO or the CDC to support your points, showing that government regulation is based on sound scientific evidence.
• Discuss both public health and personal rights: In this type of essay, it's essential to explore the balance between individual freedoms and public health needs, giving equal weight to both arguments.

There you go! By analyzing each essay's structure, argumentation, and vocabulary, you can better understand how to present balanced, well-reasoned arguments and efficiently plan your IELTS preparation.

Also Read: IELTS Writing Task 2 Common Topics 2024: 30+ Samples & Tips.

Now, let’s enhance your writing with strong, relevant vocabulary to help you articulate your ideas more effectively in your essays.

Vocabulary List for Essays on Smoking and Public Health

The IELTS writing score is based on four criteria, each contributing 25% to your overall band score: Task Achievement, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range & Accuracy. 

While all are important, grammar and vocabulary are particularly crucial. Having the right vocabulary for IELTS can significantly enhance your essay. These words will help you articulate your arguments more clearly and persuasively.

Below is a list of useful terms related to smoking and public health, along with concise explanations. 

1. Secondhand smoke
 Definition: Smoke inhaled by non-smokers from a nearby smoker's cigarette.

Example 1: Secondhand smoke is responsible for thousands of deaths annually, affecting those who do not smoke but are exposed to the fumes.

Example 2: Secondhand smoke in enclosed spaces, like restaurants or public transport, increases the risk of asthma and respiratory issues in non-smokers.

Example 3: According to the WHO, secondhand smoke exposure contributes to over 600,000 deaths annually, primarily due to heart disease and lung cancer.

2. Public health
 Definition: The health and well-being of the general population, often managed by government policy.

Example 1: Governments implement smoking bans to improve public health and reduce the burden of smoking-related diseases.

Example 2: Public health campaigns, like anti-smoking ads, aim to reduce smoking rates and raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use.

Example 3: Smoking bans in public places are part of broader public health efforts to reduce smoking-related diseases and protect vulnerable populations.

3. Legislation
 Definition: Laws or regulations enacted by a government or governing body.

Example 1: New legislation has been passed to ban smoking in public spaces to protect non-smokers and children from harmful secondhand smoke.

Example 2: The Tobacco Control Act of 2009 in the U.S. is an example of legislation to reduce smoking rates and restrict tobacco advertising.

Example 3: Many countries have introduced tobacco taxation legislation as a strategy to reduce smoking prevalence and raise funds for public health programs.

4. Addiction
 Definition: A psychological or physical dependence on a substance, such as tobacco.

Example 1: Nicotine addiction can make it extremely difficult for smokers to quit, even when they attempt to stop through methods like nicotine replacement therapy.

Example 2: Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms, including irritability and anxiety, when trying to quit due to their addiction to nicotine.

Example 3: Nicotine addiction makes it extremely difficult for smokers to quit, even when they are aware of its harmful effects.

5. Designated smoking areas
 Definition: Specific areas set aside for smoking, usually in public or workspaces.

Example 1: Some workplaces have designated smoking areas to keep the rest of the office smoke-free and protect non-smokers from exposure to secondhand smoke.

Example 2: Airports in many countries have designated smoking areas to ensure non-smokers are not exposed to cigarette smoke while waiting for flights.

Example 3: Some cities have designated smoking areas in parks or public squares to prevent smokers from affecting non-smokers.

6. Health hazards
 Definition: Potential dangers or risks to one’s health, often caused by exposure to harmful substances.

Example 1: The health hazards of smoking include an increased risk of stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to a reduced quality of life.

Example 2: The health hazards associated with secondhand smoke include an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in infants exposed to smoking parents.

Example 3: The health hazards of smoking are well-documented, with the most notable risks being lung cancer and heart disease.

7. Civil liberties
 Definition: Individual freedoms or rights protected by law, including the right to personal autonomy.

Example 1: Civil liberties advocates argue that smoking bans infringe upon personal freedom, questioning whether the government should regulate private behavior in public spaces.

Example 2: The debate over civil liberties extends to smoking bans in public parks, with some arguing that the government oversteps its boundaries by restricting individual rights to smoke.

Example 3: The debate over smoking bans often involves discussions about civil liberties, with smokers arguing that their right to choose is being infringed upon.

These terms provide a strong foundation for discussing smoking and public health in your essays. Using this advanced vocabulary appropriately can enhance the clarity and depth of your argument.

Now, let's shift our focus to some of the common mistakes students make when writing on these topics.

Common Mistakes in Writing About Smoking in Public Places

When writing about smoking in public places, many students make avoidable mistakes that can lower their IELTS band score. Recognizing and correcting these common errors can help you craft a clearer, more persuasive essay. 

Let's break down the top mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Overgeneralization
Making sweeping statements like “Smoking is bad for health, so it should be banned everywhere,” without evidence, is a quick way to weaken your argument. 

• Better Approach: Avoid phrases like “Everyone agrees smoking is harmful.” This sounds too absolute and lacks the support needed for a strong essay. Instead, facts and data should be used to show the severity of the issue.

2. Lack of Structure
A common mistake is presenting ideas without clear organization, confusing the reader. Make sure each paragraph serves a distinct purpose, with a clear topic sentence and supporting details. 

• Better Approach: Introduce each point clearly. For example: “First, the health risks associated with secondhand smoke must be addressed. Secondly, we need to consider the economic implications of smoking bans.”

3. Ignoring Counterarguments
A strong essay acknowledges opposing views, demonstrating that you can engage with all sides of the issue. Ignoring counterarguments or dismissing them without explanation weakens your essay.

• Better Approach: You can write like "While smoking bans may initially affect businesses, studies show that restaurants and bars experience long-term benefits as non-smokers feel more comfortable in smoke-free environments."

4. Informal Language
In IELTS academic writing, using informal language or contractions like “it’s” or “don’t” can detract from the professionalism of your essay. Aim for formal language that aligns with the tone of an academic essay.

• Better Approach: Here’s how you should frame a statement: “Many individuals are aware of the health risks associated with smoking, but continue the habit due to social or personal factors.”

5. Repetition
Repeating the exact phrases like “smoking is harmful” or “public health” or ideas throughout your essay can make your writing monotonous and redundant. Use a variety of vocabulary to keep your essay dynamic.

• Better Approach: “Cigarette use” or “secondhand smoke exposure” can replace repetitive terms, offering variety and keeping the essay engaging.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be better equipped to write a clear, persuasive essay demonstrating a high language proficiency level.

Also Read: Common Spelling Mistakes in IELTS – Details inside!

Now, let's move on to quick strategies that will help you refine your writing skills and achieve the high score you’re aiming for.

Essay Writing Tips to Score Band 7 and Above

The IELTS test is now accepted by over 12,500 institutions worldwide, including all universities in Canada, the UK, the USA, and Australia. To stand out and achieve a Band 7 or above, it’s not enough to simply present ideas; you must express them clearly and coherently. 

Delivering your thoughts in an academically sound manner, with a strong command of grammar and vocabulary, is key to improving your IELTS score and meeting the requirements of top institutions globally.

Here are some essential IELTS writing tips & tricks to help you reach that goal, backed by strategies proven to improve writing performance.

1. Understand the Prompt
Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the question. Misinterpreting the prompt can cost you valuable points.

• Read the prompt carefully and underline keywords like "discuss," "agree or disagree," "advantages and disadvantages," etc. If the question asks for a solution, ensure your conclusion directly offers one.
• For example, if the question asks, “To what extent should smoking be banned in public places?” ensure you address the extent, not just the issue of smoking bans.

2. Plan Before Writing
Planning is crucial for a clear, well-organized essay. By outlining your main points before writing, you can structure your essay logically, making it easier for the reader to follow.

• Spend 5-10 minutes outlining your essay. Decide on your introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. 
• If you’re writing about smoking bans, decide first on the argument(s) you'll make, such as health risks, business impact, or environmental concerns, and structure your paragraphs accordingly.

3. Use Cohesive Devices
Cohesion is key to a well-connected essay. Using cohesive devices like “however,” “therefore,” “for example,” “in contrast” helps link ideas smoothly, guiding the reader through your arguments.

• Don’t just list points; show relationships between them. For example, “Smoking in public places harms non-smokers because secondhand smoke increases the risk of lung disease.” 
• Using such transitions gives your essay a professional flow and shows your ability to connect ideas logically.

4. Vary Sentence Structures
Avoid repetitive sentence structures, which can make your writing monotonous. Varying your sentence types, simple, compound, and complex sentences, demonstrates linguistic range.

• For instance, “Smoking in public places is harmful. It leads to secondhand smoke exposure, which causes numerous health problems, including lung cancer and heart disease.” 
• Contrast this with: “While some argue that smoking is a personal choice, it is undeniable that secondhand smoke has widespread effects, posing serious health risks to non-smokers.”

5. Proofread
Proofreading is a crucial step that many students overlook. Even minor errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation can negatively impact your band score.

• Focus on the most common errors: subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and article usage (e.g., “the” vs. “a”). 
• For example, "The ban on smoking in public places has shown positive effects" is more accurate than "A ban on smoking in public places has shown positive effects."

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to writing essays that score Band 7 and above!

Also Read: IELTS 9 Band Essay: Samples, Structure, and more

Next, let’s explore the pros and cons to help you build balanced arguments, a crucial skill for crafting well-rounded essays.

Pros and Cons to Help You Build Balanced Arguments

In the IELTS writing task, one of the key strategies for a high score is to discuss both views and give your opinion in a balanced way. To do this effectively, you must weigh the pros and cons, considering each side of the issue with evidence and examples. 

A balanced argument not only shows that you understand the complexity of the topic but also allows you to make a well-informed conclusion.

Here’s a breakdown of some key pros and cons of banning smoking in public places to help you build a structured and well-rounded argument in your essay.

Pros	Cons
Health benefits for non-smokers:  Banning smoking in public spaces reduces exposure to secondhand smoke, which is linked to heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses.	Potential impact on business:  Many businesses, especially in hospitality, may initially see a decrease in revenue as smokers look for establishments that allow smoking. However, this may be short-term.
Cleaner environment:  Public spaces like parks and beaches are cleaner when smoking is banned, as it reduces litter from cigarette butts, which are toxic and non-biodegradable.	Loss of individual freedom:  Critics argue that smoking is a personal choice, and bans in public spaces could infringe on individual rights and freedoms.
Encouragement to quit: Smoking bans can encourage smokers to quit by reducing social and environmental triggers and supporting public health.	Social implications:  In some cultures, smoking is a social activity and a cultural norm. Banning it in public spaces might lead to resistance, especially in deep social roots.
Positive economic outcomes in the long term:  Although businesses may experience a short-term decline, reducing healthcare costs due to fewer smoking-related illnesses can bring long-term economic benefits.	Possibility of ineffective enforcement:  Smoking bans can be hard to enforce, leading to challenges in ensuring compliance, particularly in outdoor spaces.
Public support for smoke-free environments:  A significant number of non-smokers support smoking bans in public places, indicating strong public health endorsement.	Potential social divide:  Smokers may feel marginalized or discriminated against, potentially creating social tensions in communities.

This approach strengthens your argument and shows your ability to evaluate the issue from multiple viewpoints critically.

How Can upGrad Help You with Writing Essays for the IELTS Writing Task?

Understanding the topic "Should Smoking Be Banned in Public Places Essay" requires presenting a balanced argument, clarity, and firm structure, which are the key factors for scoring high in IELTS Writing Task 2.

However, achieving the perfect score doesn't come easily. It requires practice, feedback, and expert guidance. Many students find it challenging to structure essays or present balanced arguments effectively.

But don't let these challenges hold you back. Schedule your career counseling session with upGrad and receive personalized guidance to help you make informed decisions about your academics and career!