With all of the niche topics we research here at the Pew Internet Project, we often need to take a step back and look at the larger picture of how internet use is changing people’s everyday lives—from the momentous to the mundane. Last year, in our Selective Exposure Survey, we were able to “check in” with the public to see how the internet had improved some of these basic functions of everyday life. Here’s what we found:

  • 90% of online adults said the internet had improved their ability to get news and information that they can’t get elsewhere
  • 89% said the internet had improved their ability to keep in touch with friends and family
  • 83% said the internet had improved the way they pursue hobbies or interests
  • 63% said the internet had improved their ability to complete everyday tasks like shopping or paying bills.
  • 61% said the internet had improved their ability to do their job