Essential Content Writing Tips
I'm going to share some writing tips here, simple writing tactics I've picked up during my career as a content creator. If you follow these tips, your writing will become clear, concise, fluff-free - just what readers like.
#1 Shorter Sentences Are Better
Don't make your sentences longer than 1.5 lines, 1 line is usually more than enough
#2 Make It Personal And Cut Out Useless Fluff
Having a warm friendly tone is good but it's just important to sound like an expert. Don't tell your readers things they don't need to know. Instead, provide solid and useful information in a friendly tone.
#3 Structure Your Content to Make it Scanable
Most people don't have the time to read an entire article. Instead they quickly scan through. That's why it is so important to divide your content into easy-to-digest paragraphs. These paragraphs need to have strong headings, telling your reader what's coming up.
#4 Explain Expert Terminology
You're putting yourself forward as an expert in your niche. At times, it's a good idea to use niche-specific terminology. By doing so, you educate your reader which is a good thing. But do make sure to explain more complex aspects and expert terminology. That way, your readers get lots of value out of your content. You're then on the fast-track to being considered an expert.
#5 Avoid the Word "That"
This may sound funny but take a look at the following two sentences:
The man that lives in the house is very tall.
The man living in the house is very tall.
The second one is much more elegant, right? If in doubt, say the sentence out loud to see what sounds best.
#6 Don't Go off on a Tangent
Focus on the topic your are writing about and stick to it. Don't bring in other topics just to fill content pages. You need to provide expert information. In that sense, you are an educator imparting knowledge rather than telling silly stories or getting lost.
#7 Use Writing Tools
Don't be lazy about your grammar and spellings. Apps like Grammarly and Hemingway are great for pointing to errors and making you improve the quality of your writing.
#8 Edit Your Content
Before pressing publish, read over your content and grammar/spell check it. If you are unsure, get someone else to take a look.
#9 Read High-Quality Content
Reading helps to improve your writing because you develop a feel for good language. Read content you like every day, paying attention to the structure and language used.
#10 Avoid Adverbs and the Passive Voice
Instead of writing: "The smoothie is blended quickly by the Vitamix", write "The Vitamix blends the smoothie within seconds." The active voice always sounds better, and adverbs usually add nothing to your content.
#11 Use Link Words / Conjunctions
In reviews, people sometimes write in robotic language. Let me give you an example:
The table measure 3ft x 6 ft. It is made from wood. The table is great for family get-togethers.
Instead, phrase it like this:
This 3ftx6ft wooden table will come in handy when you are hosting a dinner party.
Or, like this.
Made from wood, this table measures 3ft x 6ft. What's more, it will sit 8 people at your next dinner party.
Check out the use of conjunctions here: http://www.smart-words.org/lin...
So there you have a few basic tips. Share your top tips with me here too!
Recent Comments
2
Great tips. Thank you :)