Introduction
Conciseness is Key
In the world of online writing, brevity is the name of the game. Unlike school, where students are often rewarded for meeting word count requirements, online readers prefer concise and to-the-point content. Nobody wants to read a painfully long text, trust me - even your ex-teacher hated it. So, always ask yourself, "Can I say this in less?" Trim the unnecessary fluff and deliver your message in a clear and streamlined manner.
Writing is About the Reader
In school, we were taught to write about what we know and impress our teachers. However, when it comes to online writing, the focus shifts to the reader. Your goal is to provide valuable information that satisfies their needs and helps them achieve their desired results. When your readers win, you win.
Write and Edit at Different Times
We've all been guilty of writing and editing in the same session back in school. Unfortunately, this often leads to subpar writing. One of the most significant improvements you can make to your online writing game is to create a gap between writing and editing. Write your content today and edit it tomorrow. You'll be amazed at how much unnecessary fluff you can eliminate with fresh eyes the next day.
Be Polarizing or Be Boring
Writing for school often meant playing it safe and echoing the views of your teacher. However, online writing demands a different approach. To capture the attention of your readers, you need to be polarizing. Start by answering polarizing questions such as, "What is something I am FOR?" and "What is something I am AGAINST?" This will attract readers who share your views and ignite engaging conversations.
Great Writing is About Great Ideas - Not Grammar
When it comes to online writing, focusing solely on grammar is not enough. Your content needs to be driven by great ideas and insights that captivate your audience. Of course, maintaining proper grammar is important for clarity, but it should never overshadow the power of your message. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and present unique and thought-provoking ideas.
Write Like You Talk
Remember when your teachers told you never to start a sentence with "But" or "And"? Well, throw that rule out the window when it comes to online writing. The key is to write like you talk. Online writing is like having a conversation with a friend, so embrace everyday language and a conversational tone. Be personable, relatable, and authentic - unless you're deliberately trying to convey a stronger emotion, avoid excessive swearing.
Writing Online is a Game
Unlike school, where earning a good grade is the ultimate goal, online writing is more of a game. Your focus should be on becoming the most helpful and entertaining person for your readers. Consistency is the name of the game - don't stop posting, don't stop writing. The more value and entertainment you provide, the more you will win the hearts and loyalty of your audience.
In conclusion, mastering the art of online writing requires a shift in mindset from traditional academic writing. Embrace conciseness, prioritize your readers' needs, give yourself space for editing, express your opinions, prioritize ideas over grammar, write conversationally, and focus on providing value and entertainment. By following these powerful frameworks, you can create compelling content that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impact. So, go ahead and unleash your writing prowess in the online world - the possibilities are endless!