Mom’s Blog Resource » Blog Archive » Writing a Reader-Friendly Blog Post

Writing a Reader-Friendly Blog Post

18 March 2009 10 Comments

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. The vast majority of blog readers aren’t readers at all; they are skimmers. If that. Give your readers a reason to pause. Reel in an audience by implementing the following blogging fundamentals.

Eye Candy – Very few successful bloggers write posts without any visual stimulation. Include your own photos or a graphic to draw wandering eyes.
Length of Post – Because most readers skim through posts, there is no reason to use more words than necessary. Whenever possible, keep your posts short and to the point. If a topic requires more explanation, consider breaking it into two or more articles.
Grouping Information – It’s easier to read bullets or numbered lists than endless paragraphs. Highlight the main points with bold text or a different font size or color.
Paragraphing – Long paragraphs will not be read. It is incredibly difficult for they eye to track more than 5 or 6 lines without spacing. Use that return key often.
Editing – It is difficult to take one seriously if their spelling or grammar are off kilter. Be sure to edit all posts before publishing. If this is a challenge, consider swapping editing duties with a blogging buddy.

As a reader, what makes you pause and really read a post? What causes you to skim through or skip a post altogether?

This post is linked to Works for Me Wednesday.

Graphic from AllPosters.com

10 Comments »

Bridget said:

Great tips!

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# 15 April 2009 at 3:44 am

Roan said:

I stopped by from WFTW. I have just spent some time browsing your blog, and I have learned from many of your tips! Thanks so much for this resource about blogging. I am so glad I found you. I especially liked the “meme” list. I didn’t even know what a “meme” was! Thanks for the blog education.

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# 15 April 2009 at 4:07 am

Courtney said:

great tip!! my husband tells me the same thing when I fail on blog post in reader but i agree, No pictures than I am skip it.

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# 15 April 2009 at 4:32 am

mub said:

These are really great tips. I have such a hard time reading blog posts that don’t ever have a break in them!

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# 15 April 2009 at 10:09 am

Kim said:

I am hopelessly guilty of all those but I am improving. I do love a post with pictures, but not too many pictures. I will read a long post if I personally know the person. Also if it’s captivating from the get go then I will continue as well. If they have a sense of humor in their writing that helps too. I’m always ready for a good laugh or two.
Thanks for the tips.

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# 15 April 2009 at 10:24 am

Teresa aka Tess said:

Great tips! It’s the visuals for me. I like eyecandy and the explanations that go along with the visuals.

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# 15 April 2009 at 2:55 pm

momstheword said:

I already know that I fail at the eye candy. I rarely put graphics or pictures or anything. Perhaps you might write a post some day telling us where to get all that stuff!!! Seriously, that is what stops me is not knowing what is free to use and what isn’t.

I also know that my posts are to long! But it’s just so hard to cut them down!

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# 15 April 2009 at 7:27 pm

Tonya said:

Great tips!! I love these. TFS

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# 15 April 2009 at 9:43 pm

Mom’s Blog Resource » Blog Archive » Leaving Comments - Some Dos and Don’ts said:

[...] Commenting is like leaving your calling card at someone’s blog. Many times, it is your chance to make a first impression. And remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. [...]

# 22 April 2009 at 2:45 am