Online article writing or blogging is a great way to market your business and products, as well as a side hustle for freelance writers. It’s also a popular way for online business owners to get their website more indexed by search engines, which can help increase traffic and lead to extra income from ads or affiliate links.
Getting started as a writer can be daunting, but learning to write articles that sell is an important part of becoming successful in the industry. To start writing articles that are effective, you’ll need to learn how to plan your articles and structure them correctly. This will ensure that they communicate your ideas correctly, concisely, clearly, coherently, and completely.
1. Craft a Title
Before you begin writing your article, it’s crucial to give it a title that is both informative and enticing. The title is often the first thing an editor reads and can make or break your chances of getting published. It should communicate what the article is about, the readership, and the questions the article promises to answer.
2. Create an Outline and Plan
A good outline can be very helpful for freelance writers, as it can save you time and make the process easier. It will provide you with a clear picture of what you want to cover in your article and help you organize all of the research you’ve done.
3. Use a Structure that Works for You
A strong structure will make it easier to write your articles and can also increase their impact on the reader. This can be accomplished by making sure your piece has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
It’s also a good idea to include a table of contents, as this can help users navigate your article more easily. For example, if you’re writing a list-type knowledge base article, including a table of contents with links to the sections your readers are most interested in will make it easier for them to find the information they need.
4. Let Your Voice Shine Through
When writing an article, it’s important to put your personality into the words you use. This will make your work more engaging and keep people reading it until the very end.
5. Don’t use Too Much Jargon
Using jargon in your articles can be distracting for readers, especially if they don’t speak English. It can also confuse them, as it can be difficult to understand what a term means.
If you must use jargon in your articles, be sure to include a brief explanation of the word and its meaning. This will avoid misunderstandings and save readers from having to go back and search for the correct definition in another article or online forum.
6. Be Reliable
When you’re researching your articles, it’s a good idea to rely on multiple sources, as this can be particularly important for more in-depth articles. This can be done by sourcing the information from sources that are verifiable, such as newspapers or websites.
