An opinion essay about the role of visual and written information.
An opinion essay about the role of visual and written information.
In the modern world, the image (photograph or film) is becoming a more powerful way of communicating than the written word. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In the past, information was primarily spread in a written format, whereas now it is claimed that a comparatively powerful way for this is the image. Although the written text is significant to some extent, I agree with the statement as visual data does not require much concentration and enables comprehension with ease.
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Of course, the role of the written word remains undeniable. This type of information is commonly used in academic or professional settings and, unlike images and videos that can be easily manipulated using modern editing tools, is less susceptible to falsification, serving as a more reliable document. Since details can be thoroughly explained and often cannot be edited or changed after the agreement, making them a more credible source, the written text is prioritized when signing valuable contracts and making crucial deals. Therefore, major companies or agencies rely heavily on verified text rather than visuals to ensure fair collaboration with allied partners and prevent the spread of misinformation, which otherwise would lead to severe financial problems, such as bankruptcy.
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However, I would argue that a more effective way of communicating in the modern world is through the image due to two major reasons. Firstly, the visual content transcends language barriers. The ability of a powerful photograph or a well-crafted short video to convey complex concepts accurately makes visual information much more popular in preschool, school, and tertiary education systems, providing an easier and smoother learning experience for all. For example, children can learn about letters and simple mathematical operations through interactive short videos on YouTube prior to school years, while those in college can benefit from appealing presentation photos or graphs prepared by professors.
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Another factor that supports the idea of visual information being a powerful tool to communicate is that it is less mentally demanding than written text. Unlike text, which requires active reading and interpretation, images instantly provide context and meaning. People today often seek quick and engaging content that fits into their fast-paced lives, and pictures and films serve this purpose very well. For instance, graphics, memes, and short videos are shared online because they are easy to consume and understand. Moreover, research statistics that indicate a decrease in the average attention span of humans strengthen this argument, meaning that the written word is less engaging because it demands concentration and mental engagement.
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In conclusion, even though written information is trustworthy, I firmly believe that the image is a more efficient way of communicating as it goes beyond language limitations, making the learning journey easier and precisely aligning with fast-paced lifestyles of people.
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429 words
Akhmedov Akbar
IELTS instructor with 2 years of teaching experience. Personal overall score is 8, with 8 in the writing section.
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