Author: Darrell Porter
When tasked to write a blog for work my original response was sheer terror. I’ve been out of school for several years and writing hasn’t been at the top of my “to-do” list. I’ve written blogs in the past so how difficult can it be? Without guidance, it can be challenging.
I decided that I would simply research effective blog writing and see where it took me. It didn’t take long to figure out that planning your blog is the easiest way to success. The following will assist you in getting pen to paper.
1. Begin with a Catchy Title
Your title is your scope of focus. Having a strong title will not only attract readers, but it will also keep your writing centered. The following areas are a great place to start:
How-to Blogs: How to Write a Blog in 10 Steps, How to Capture Thrilling Photos, How to Build a Birdhouse.
Top Lists: Top 10 DIY Hacks, Top 5 World Destinations, Top 10 Ways to Make Money from the Internet.
Factual: 8 Things You Need to Know About Traveling, 5 Ways to Clearer Skin, 10 Life Hacks for the Garden
2. Know What to Write
Writing can be simplified if you’re writing about things that you know well. The issues arise when you’re tasked to write about something that you’re unfamiliar with. Therefore, research is essential. A simple google search on your topic will result in thousands of results. Read articles, watch videos, and get information from the experts while taking notes. Of course, source material if you’re using their ideas, statistics or quotes.
3. Write a Strong Intro
You already have a strong title, now follow it up with a couple of paragraphs that support the title. Your introduction should captivate your reader and encourage them to continue reading your blog. Again, research your topic— the more you know the easier it will be to write.
4. Write, Edit, and Rewrite
Too often we simply write and when we’ve written the last word, we believe we’ve completed the task. Nothing can be further from the truth. Writing is a process. The most difficult part of the process is beginning to write and effectively express your thoughts. Don’t edit until you’ve completed your thought or blog. Let it sit and return later to edit and rewrite.
5. Write a Conclusion
Don’t end your blog without a strong conclusion. Instill some type of call to action or something that may motivate your reader. If you’re writing about vacations, inspire them to take one. If you’re writing about video production, encourage them to make a video. The conclusion should wrap up the entire blog and leave the reader motivated to act.
Blogging doesn’t have to be difficult nor intimidating. With proper research and a template like the one outlined here, you are sure to be successful. Think like the reader is thinking and provide information that you believe they’ll want to read. Make sure you research your topic thoroughly even if you believe you’re an expert in the field in which you’re writing. There’s always something that we don’t know.
Last words? Write about what you love; it will make the entire process more enjoyable and your readers will be able to tell.