Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Where the rule is written
The permission appears in several official places.
| Source | Wording |
|---|---|
| ielts.org Academic Writing | Task response includes how well you develop your argument, giving evidence and examples which may be from your own experience |
| ielts.org General Training Writing | Use relevant examples (which can be from your own experience, if relevant) or evidence |
| Writing key assessment criteria | Ideas should be supported by evidence, and examples may be drawn from a candidate's own experience |
| IDP Writing FAQ | Personal examples are fine, because the question says you can use your own experience and knowledge |
What makes an example count
Task Response assesses 'how adequately the main ideas are extended and supported' and 'how relevant the candidate's ideas are to the task' (key assessment criteria). At band 7 the descriptors warn of 'a tendency to over-generalise' or 'a lack of focus and precision in supporting ideas'; at band 6 some supporting evidence 'may be less relevant or inadequate' (band descriptors). A short, specific example tied to your point does more than a long story.
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Not in Academic Task 1
Academic Task 1 relates 'narrowly to the factual content' of the visual (key assessment criteria). IDP India advises leaving out opinions, personal experience and outside knowledge there (IDP India).
Frequently asked questions
Do my examples have to be true?+
The official pages do not ask examiners to check facts. They assess how well examples support relevant ideas and how well the language is used.
Can I invent statistics?+
ielts.org does not address this. Examiners mark support and relevance, so vague or implausible support is unlikely to help.
Can I write in the first person?+
Yes. Using your own experience is allowed, and Task 2 asks for your position. Keep the style semi-formal or neutral, as ielts.org advises.
Is this the same in General Training Task 2?+
Yes. The General Training page uses the same wording about examples from your own experience.
Keep reading
Related
- Does your opinion affect your IELTS score?
- IELTS Writing Task 2 band descriptors
- IELTS Writing Task 2 samples
- All 3112 guides
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