Irrespective of your business, be it a blogger or a fashion designer, we all need to know how to write a good article. There are all kinds of articles on the web, but a good web article should be between 500 and 800 words, and it should share something – give useful tips, provide ‘how to’ information, or answer a question. Today, I am going to be sharing my best 5 steps that will help you to create a top-notch article.
Step #1 Create a Powerful Headline
The first thing you need to create is a headline that stands out and draws potential readers in. Use clever wordplay, catchy phrases, and make sure your search engine optimize it relating to the article content.
For example, let’s say you are writing about diamonds. Which of these headings is most likely to draw in the reader? “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend- Make Sure You Buy Accordingly” or “How to Buy a Diamond Engagement Ring.”
Step #2 Create Your Introduction
The article’s introduction needs to be only a few sentences. It shouldn’t be too wordy, but rather it should clearly define what the article is going to be about.
For example, “Buying diamonds can be confusing, even daunting. After all, how can you tell if you are buying a quality diamond?”
Step #3 Cover the Key Points
Come up with four or five key points that you are going to cover in the article. These points should be clearly defined with a new paragraph. They can be introduced with a sentence or as a subheading.
For example, “Let’s look at the five C’s of the diamond.”
- Clarity
- Color
- Carat
- Cut
- Certification
Step #4 Develop the Story
Now, you need to write to cover each of your key points. This is where you develop your detail. You can include images if you like; use bulleted lists, paragraphs, etc. Make sure that you cover your point clearly and concisely, so that the reader can easily understand.
For example, you are now going to define your five C’s of the diamond in detail. What clarity is, how do you know what the clarity of the diamond is? how to read the appraisal? etc. This is where you will provide all of the information so that your reader knows how to buy that diamond.
Step #5 Call to Action
Finally, you need to conclude your article, followed by a call to action. The call to action is what you want your reader to do after they finish reading the article.
For example, a call to action might be “Click here to find out more.” or “Are you ready to save on that diamond ring?”
There you have it – every article should be made up of these five steps.
However, there is something that is also very important when it comes to article writing, and that is – PRACTICE! Make sure you keep practicing, even if you are the worst writer. A good writing skill can be built over time! Don’t quit too soon!!!