About Writing Content
Something I've noticed whilst building out the content on my website is that I do much better when I'm not second-guessing every little thing I write.
My best method is to just get it all out in a stream-of-consciousness sort of way and then edit what doesn't work. This method helps me to remain much more objective about what I'm writing, which allows me to better view my stuff the way a first-time visitor would most likely see it.
Granted, I've always been an avid reader and writer, and this certainly helps with vocabulary, but that's nothing compared to what will actually grab a reader's attention and keep it. People don't want to feel as though they are being talked-down to. After all, who likes condescension?? Not me!!
This is why stream-of-consciousness writing is the way to go for me!! It's more conversational. The way you would tell it to a friend is the way you should write it. This allows your particularly unique voice to come through in a big way. It builds trust in you as folks can tell when you're trying too hard or copying another's style, and this turns people off.
The next huge step in writing decent content is editing. Edit, edit, edit. Don't be afraid to be an e-diot, haha. Think about the stuff you enjoy reading the most. Does the author ramble on with technical jargon that clearly interests him but no one else? Probably not. Does she write using poor grammar, boring backstory, and an overabundance of slang? I doubt it. In this way too, we want to keep it all brief and to the point.
Lastly, don't skimp on the research. I'm much more likely to pay attention to someone who speaks authoritatively without being a blowhard. Know your subject intimately, but keep it simple. I try to see myself as an interpreter of scientific information rather than a professor. After all, people are coming to you to get the skinny. They want it straight, no chaser, so give it to them straight. If they wanted to bore themselves with data they wouldn't be visiting your page, so don't turn them off!! Give folks the salient details without frills and high-flown speech. A little dose of humor always helps too.
Above all though, follow your instincts. I'm just learning and I want to share what I've learned, since it may help others like me. If you don't agree, go your own way!! If you've found something that works better for you, go with it. Thanks for reading and...
Happy Writing!!
Recent Comments
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Thank you for the insights. I too think too much about being perfect the first time through.
Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it!!
Haha, I'm exactly the same way! But you can always go back and edit, nothing is final.
Sean, I agree with everything that you have written! The funny thing about it is that I get all these ideas in my head to write while I am watching an instructional video by Kyle. That is so weird! So, I pause the video, write down the conversational piece in my head, then go back to watching the video!
Thanks pal for posting,
John
Thanks John!!
The same thing happens to me, haha. The worst is when I get great ideas while I'm out and about, or doing chores. I always think, eh I'll just write it down later, but then I forget!!
I guess the best time to jot it down is in the now time. If you have a notepad on your Smartphone, you could type your thought in quickly and save it. I've done that before at work (on break, of course) and it really helps.
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Great post. This is something I need to do myself.
Thanks for the encouragement!