Some people prefer to learn and increase their knowledge via reading, while others learn faster with visuals such as images and videos. As reading and watching are two different ways of receiving information, the question arises; what are the differences between them and which is better for learning – reading or watching?

For most students reading is better than watching when you have to remember many facts and small detail. You are more focused on what you are reading than on what you are watching but If you start with a new subject or topic it can be effective to first watch a relevant video.

For ages books were the only medium where you could capture and/or find information and literature. Nowadays, TV and videos are in principle providing the same.

But despite differences between reading and watching may not necessarily be better than the other. It is a matter of which is best in a specific situation.

Here are Key Differences Between Reading and Watching that can give us an answer to the question of which is better:

1. Brain Activity

It is a known fact that reading impacts your brain. In fact, both reading and watching cause brain activity. The difference is that reading stimulates other areas of the brain than watching.

A large part of your brain stays active when reading, and the brain receives a “workout” every time you read a book.

Many people think that, unlike reading, watching a video doesn’t cause a lot of brain activity. They consider it a relaxing activity and assume that the brain “switches off” when one watches a video.

This is not true. studies show that the human brain is also very active when one is watching television or a video.

It depends on what input you need from your book or video. In many instances, reading and watching are complementing each other.

2. Imagination

When you are reading fiction you are continuously imagining how the plot is developing and what the imaginary world and circumstances created in the story look like. This “exercise” teaches your mind to imagine things in real life as well and makes you creative

When you watch a story on video or TV there is a lesser need to imagine the scenarios. They are visually provided for you. As you don’t have to create pictures in your mind your brain doesn’t get the same “training” as with reading.

3. Knowledge Gained

Both reading and watching videos can help increase your knowledge. In fact, reading regularly is known to make you a smarter person!

Books are still considered more accurate and objective than videos, and many people approach videos with an entertainment mindset. People also tend to multitask while watching video content and could miss important bits of information.

For students who are struggling with reading, watching videos related to the study topic is a good alternative.

So, Which is Better: Reading or Watching?

To a great extent, your personal preference will determine whether you do more watching than reading or vice versa. From what we’ve discussed above it is clear that although there are differences between reading and watching, both activities can be good for a person.

It depends

I believe the important thing is to define what works for you and stick to it as long as learning is taking place.