Published on : 19 May 20203 min reading time

Audio books are useful for the visually impaired but also for those who like to read but can’t find the time. Your eyes can also easily get tired, which prevents you from reading your favourite book. Audio books are the new trend and can be beneficial for everyone, whether they like to read or hate to read.

What is an audiobook?

As the name suggests, audiobooks are voice recordings of the text of a book that you listen to rather than read. Audio books can be exact word-for-word versions or shortened versions. They are usually downloaded in the same way as other digital audio files such as songs or albums. They can also be purchased from online bookstores or downloaded for free from public domain sites. Most public library systems offer online audio book downloads. Make sure you know the formats used by your device before purchasing or downloading audiobooks. Not all devices support the same format.

What are audiobooks used for?

When you can’t read, you can listen. Audio books can also be a great way to relax – to give your eyes a rest from the constant onslaught of paper and digital screens. Others use them to save time. The advantage of audiobooks is that you can listen to them almost anywhere. For example, you can follow the rhythm of the books and perform several tasks at once. Listen to an audiobook while cooking, gardening, going to work, or taking a long walk. Audio books are usually audio files that you can play on any media player, tablet or smartphone. Just make sure you have a good headset that is comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Do audio books offer the same benefits as reading a book?

Audio books can perform most of the same functions as traditional books. They can expand your vocabulary, teach you new things and entertain you. The only thing audio books can’t do is present pictures, spreadsheets and things like that in a convincing way. An audiobook can always present the same information, but not in a context that is easy to use or keep. Audio books are also more difficult to reference or replay than traditional books. If you miss a sentence or two, then you have to go back to the part you missed. On the other hand, the conversational aspect of audio books allows you to better understand how a word is meant to be pronounced.