Here are a few tips that I find helpful (after years of being at university I have attempted to simplify the process):
- Have a general plan of all the topics you want to touch on in your page or blog (some people like to map out a few dot-points prior to staring their writing).
...
- Just write. Don't overthink it. Just grab a cup of coffee and write, stream of consciousness is really the way to go. Forget about the finer details for now. You can always edit in bold headings, italics, and add images and internal links to your other pages at a later stage. Focusing on this too early may disrupt your train of thought, as you spend most of your time on these less important aspects.
Remember: it's content that converts, not whistles and bells.
- Shorten paragraphs: contrary to what your university lecturers have probably told you, in the online world of webpage writing it is a different ball-game. If you've ever read a website that consists of lengthy paragraphs, you will be less inclined to want to read on. Dense paragraphs are much harder to scan, and quite frankly look a little unattractive to the reader.
So cut down on the length of your paragraphs and you'll find writing it and reading it a more enjoyable experience. 2 - 4 sentences will often be more than enough.
- Write in smaller time blocks: sometimes when we have a brainwave or we're really getting into what we're writing, it is better to continue uninterrupted. Sometimes for example I'm enjoying writing so much and my train of thought is so clear that it would be a mistake to abandon it and come back later, only to lose all those fresh ideas.
Most of the time, however, 30 - 50 minute blocks will suffice.
Please continue to my next page!