The dual coding hypothesis suggests that:

The dual coding hypothesis posits that information is more effectively learned and recalled when it is represented both verbally and visually. This theory suggests that human cognition utilizes two distinct systems for processing information: one for verbal data (words, language) and another for non-verbal data (images, visual representations).

When words are paired with images, both systems are engaged, creating multiple pathways for memory retrieval. This means that the presence of an image alongside words enhances the ability to remember those words compared to relying on words alone or images alone. The interplay between visual and verbal memory can create richer and more meaningful memories, allowing for easier recall.

Therefore, the notion that words associated with images are easier to remember than either words or images alone reflects the core idea of dual coding, which emphasizes the enhanced memory capability provided by dual representation.