How To Get Your Articles Read

When you begin writing articles it’s perhaps a good idea to start with something you already are familiar with. For example, if you have your own web site, then you are likely to be reasonably knowledgeable about the topic or theme that your site relates to. By focusing on what you are already interested in, you will find it fairly easy to write an article, as you already know the subject and what your own views are on that particular topic. It’s simply a matter of sharing this information in a creative and interesting way. Think about how you can share your knowledge with someone else who may be interested in the same subjects you are interested in.
To make sure that your articles are read and enjoyed, here are a few pointers to get you started. The following guidelines will help to make your articles more readable and interesting.

1. Create a good ‘attention-grabbing’ title. If your title can entice a person’s curiosity, you are halfway home to getting your article read. Your title should be a short and concise description of your article’s content. (TIP: Use statements and questions to utilize keywords that people are searching for).

Use titles like, "10 Ways To…", "How To…" or "… In Just 5 Easy Steps". You may prefer a title that commands action, for example, "Get Started Today With …". These types of titles reach out to a person’s emotions and makes them actively interested in reading more.

2. Avoid long paragraphs. When paragraphs are too long, words tend to merge together both on the page and in the mind of the reader, which causes confusion. Most readers will quickly disregard the paragraph and move on to something easier to read. Remember, paragraphs can be just a single sentence, or sometimes even a single word!

3. Use sub-headings to divide your paragraphs. This will help break up each main point of your article into relevant sections while still remaining part of the whole. It should be easy for the reader to move from one point to the next without losing step; the transition should always be smooth and easy. Not only will you retain your reader’s attention by doing this, you will also underline the main points and direction of what you want to say.

A great way to test your sub-headings is to read ONLY them. If you can read your main title and just your sub-headings and still understand the main points of the article, then they work! Many people actually skim text this way to find out whether or not the information is relevant to what they want to know.

4. Use specific information when necessary, rather than general statements. Using facts and figures will heighten interest in your article because it appears authoritative on the subject matter. Be careful though not to be too formal and always make sure you get your facts right!

5. Keep your readers interested from start to finish. Try incorporating real life situations, where possible, that may be adopted by the reader. Use good descriptions and metaphors to drive your point home – just don’t over do it. Graphic metaphors and similes make it easier for others to imagine what you are talking about.

Make the experience pleasurable and enjoyable for both you and your readers. Imagination is a wonderful thing!