Writing Task 2: responding to survey questions
By Michael Ukwuma
How to choose a side quickly and support it with reasons and examples.
Choose fast and stay with it
The survey asks you to pick one option and explain your choice. There is no correct side. Choose the side for which you can think of the best reasons and examples within a minute, and do not change your mind halfway.
A reliable structure
Open with your choice in a clear sentence. Give two or three reasons, each in its own short paragraph, and support each reason with an example from real life. Finish with a short conclusion that repeats your choice.
Make examples specific
A weak example is: it is good for people. A strong example is: when my brother started cycling to work, he saved about sixty dollars a month and arrived less tired. Specific details make your writing more convincing and show a wider vocabulary.
Mention the other side briefly
At higher levels, acknowledge the opposite view in one sentence and explain why you still prefer your choice. This shows balanced thinking without making your answer too long.
Key points
- Pick a side quickly.
- Give reasons and a real example for each.
- Add one sentence about the other view.