Question: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the advertising industry?

Sample Answer (The AREA technique):

Answer: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the advertising industry, as it has disrupted the supply and demand of products and services, changed the media consumption patterns of the consumers, and challenged the effectiveness and ethics of advertising in a time of crisis.

Reason: The reason why the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the advertising industry is that it has created new opportunities and challenges for advertisers, media companies, and consumers, and has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies and new forms of communication and marketing.

Example: For instance, the pandemic has led to the cancellation or postponement of many live events and sports sponsorships, which has reduced the exposure and revenue of advertisers, while also increasing the demand for online and streaming platforms, which has created new opportunities for digital advertising and e-commerce. Moreover, the pandemic has also raised ethical and social concerns about the content and tone of advertising, such as the use of fear, misinformation, or exploitation of the pandemic for commercial purposes.

Alternative: Alternatively, some people may argue that the COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of advertising as a tool for public health communication, social cohesion, and economic recovery, and that the advertising industry has adapted and innovated to meet the changing needs and expectations of the consumers and the society.