Blog writing tips and blogging advice Mastering blog writing skills
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This article, Blog writing tips and blogging advice, was last updated on 07 April 2009 and is now out of date and held in our online archive for reference. Explore our latest Technology articles.
Writing a blog is a skill, so here are some tips on how to create a popular blog.
Keep your blog informal
Blogging is by its nature an informal medium, and your writing style should reflect this. Keep your tone chatty – this exudes intimacy, which will help you build a following.
Using lists will make your blog easier to read
A good way to develop a blog writing style is to read blogs that you enjoy, and analyse what it is that underpins their appeal.
Use lists in your blog
Summarising the main points you make in any blogpost is important, because many blog readers will skim copy rather than reading it all the way through.
If your list is compelling, they’re far likelier to stick around. Tech blog site lifehacker routinely breaks down posts into lists.
Be succinct
Few people will bother to scroll through five screens’ worth of blogpost. Before posting, reread for repetition and waffle. If you have a lot to say on a particular subject, break it down into a series of posts.
Check your blog's spelling and grammar
Sloppy grammar is the blogging equivalent of poor personal hygiene; people will give you a wide berth. While spellcheckers have their place, they won’t pick up on commonly confused words (‘effect’ and ‘affect’) or common misspellings (‘your’ and ‘you're’), so make sure you read through what you've written before you post. If you need spelling help use www.dictionary.com.
Heed layout basics
Follow the basic principles of good text layout, because the readability of your blog is very important. Use line breaks between paragraphs, make subheads bold and use italics for emphasis, and not rows of exclamation marks!!!!! The goal is to create a sense of flow throughout your posts.
A good blog needs variety
Following the same format for every post will deter people from returning to your blog. Aim to mix and match list-heavy posts with a more narrative approach, and include images in your blog from time to time.
You can also adopt a step-by-step tutorial style when dealing with subject matter that’s instructional.
Use snappy blog headlines
Most people will visit your blog via individual posts rather than landing on your homepage, so it’s vital to write descriptive, compelling blog headlines. Supplement these with snappy subheads throughout each post.
Publish regular updates
The golden rule for any successful website is content, content, content. It’s the same for blogs: publish regular updates, because the more you blog, the more traffic you'll get.
