Speech and writing are both ways of communicating using language. Writing can be thought of, as speech written down, but the relationship between the two isn't as straightforward as it is. Speech may be considered the primary mode of communication in the sense that we speak before we can write.
There are many differences between speaking and writing. In conversations, we use our body language to add to our meaning. In addition, in a conversation we have an opportunity to explain ourselves, to insure that the listener is following, and to provide immediate responses to the listener's questions and need for clarification. In writing, we do not have this luxury. We have only one chance to make our point. If we are not clear , we will lose our one and only chance.
When you talk with people and make assertions, the people you are talking with do not always challenge you to give reasons for your statements. They may know why you say what you say, or they may not want to put you in the spot, so they do not always question your reasons for the way you feel. On the other hand, the people who read your writings may not know you, agree with you or know why you think the way you do. Consequently, if you want to communicate with them effectively, you must support any point you make with strong and solid evidence. So, any idea that you write must be supported with reasons, evidence and details.
As a native speaker, writing is much more difficult than speaking. Writing is not simply speech written down on paper. Learning to write is not a natural extension of learning to speak. Unlike speech, writing requires systematic instruction and practice. In writing, writers use more complex sentences with connecting words like however, who, although, and in addition but to speak, speakers uses simpler sentences connected by lots of “ands” and “buts”.
Furthermore, written language is more restricted and generally follows a standardised form of grammar, structure, organization, and vocabulary. Most writing is based on planning, before start writing we need a basic draft or a mind map for the topic that we are going to write. So it shows that writing is more difficult compared to speaking.
As a conclusion, eventhough speaking and writing have similar skills, but still there are many differences that occur between both skills. A native speaker should master in both writing and speaking to communicate well in their language either in formal or informal.
