Text-based

Text-based refers to something that primarily relies on written words for its content, interaction, or functionality. This contrasts with formats that use visual, auditory, or other sensory input. It emphasizes the importance of language and literacy. text-based applications often involve input, output, and processing of textual data, whether simple or complex, and can range from basic communication to sophisticated data analysis, and often include the use of keyboard input. They are also usually less resource intensive than applications that use multimedia elements.

Text-based meaning with examples

• Early computer games, like 'Zork' and 'Adventure,' were entirely text-based, relying on players reading and typing commands to explore environments. These games built worlds using descriptions and encouraged imagination. Players had to actively interpret the text, a stark contrast to the visually driven games of later years. Success was predicated on the use of a player's written word and ingenuity of command.
• Many command-line interfaces (CLIs) are text-based. Users interact with the operating system by typing commands like 'ls' (list files) or 'cd' (change directory). Their strength is direct system control with less dependence on a graphical environment, even allowing powerful remote administration. They are valued for their speed and efficiency, which can be particularly useful for scripting and automation.
• Programming tutorials often use text-based code examples to illustrate concepts. These examples provide a concise and easily copied way of showing how code works. The text focus aids in learning the syntax and structure, as the emphasis is on the underlying language, rather than the formatting of any visual representation, allowing direct engagement and easier modifications.
• Academic research often involves text-based analysis of documents. Researchers use methods to find patterns, insights, and arguments within large bodies of written material. This approach is frequently used in fields such as literature, history, and social science. Such analysis might, for instance, reveal the evolution of language use over time.