Social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, has increased written communication. This, along with standard text messaging on mobile phones, has become the primary way many people communicate, as it is faster and more convenient than talking in person or making a phone call. Texting is also less intrusive in places such as meetings, classrooms, restaurants, libraries and other locations where a ringing phone would be frowned upon.

While more critical types view the phenomenon as a death knell for language and reducing the levels of literacy among youth, linguists claim texting actually improves reading skills. The majority of children know there is a distinct style difference between texting and the written language used for school papers and exams.

Messages and updates shared on social media sites are usually brief, spontaneous thoughts that are easy for readers to remember. Writing in a conversational tone helps the author connect to an audience and increases the chances of understanding and empathy. In essence, social media has helped writing skills improve and evolve through becoming less formal, and more accessible, to everyone.

The purists will lament and bad writing will still be found on the web, but clearly, English is slowly changing over into a textual and informal language.