Name one way text generation can be practically applied.

Automated report writing illustrates a practical application of text generation because it utilizes algorithms to analyze data and generate coherent, structured narratives without human intervention. This process enhances efficiency by saving time and resources, as it can quickly produce reports based on data inputs, such as sales figures or research findings. For example, businesses often rely on automated systems to create performance reports or summaries of financial data, allowing professionals to focus on analytical tasks rather than the more labor-intensive process of writing.

The other options relate to different functionalities that do not involve text generation. Manual data entry focuses on the input of information by humans, image recognition involves identifying objects within images, and sensor data collection pertains to the gathering of data from various environmental sensors, none of which directly apply to the process of generating text.