12. Numeracy

 If you're anything like me, the idea of math or numbers makes your mind instantly shut down. Math has never been my best subject, which is why I chose the major furthest from it. 

Even though numbers and statistics are not my favorite topic of discussion, growing up is understanding that you cannot necessarily escape it.

Numbers have power. They can be described as "persuasive pieces of evidence". But even though these facts look good to verify a paper, it's important to confirm your sources and their reliability. As a writer, to maintain power through words and numbers, there must be a reliable primary source to begin. 

As much as I do not want to admit it, numeracy is an essential part of news delivery. Numeracy is described as, "the ability to understand and work with numbers".

For the past year and a half, we as a population have depended on the newest updates of statistics concerning COVID-19 cases. These numbers mean something to a worldwide audience because they update us with the most recent numbers of cases around us. 

Numeracy is used to legitimate the information that a source is producing. Writing or speaking about a topic without backing it up with statistics, can make your information look illegitimate.  

Even as a mass communications major, I understand the importance of including numeracy within a paper or report. The dependability of including a quote or statistic, brings a safety net confirming the information from the source. 

In conclusion, no matter what I choose to do with my life, math will always find a way to bother me.