by Karen Cioffi
I don't know about you, but I can take a while to write an article, usually an hour and then some. Even if I have an idea, I still try to add extra value into the article by doing a bit of research and getting 'social proof' to back up what I'm saying.
A number of bloggers / marketers say they can write an article in 20 minutes. I’ve heard this said a number of times. Supposedly, 20-30 minutes is average for them.
Mulling it over, I came up with 7 tips to speed up your blog writing, while still keeping it optimized.
Tip #1 Keep a list of ideas (and information)
I’ve been keeping lists for years. And, with information permeating every nook and cranny of the internet, there’s never a lack of new ideas.
For quick research, keep files with links to articles on specific topics that you come across.
Tip #2 Use keywords
While you need to use keywords, don’t go crazy researching them. If you’re in a rush, just think of what you’d use to search for the topic you’re writing on.
Tip #3 Use bullet and numbered points
People love list articles. They’re easy to read and quick to scan.
In regard to writing time, using numbered points helps you organize your thoughts and content. This makes for quicker writing.
Tip #4 – Add graphics
Yes, you need graphics. As with Tip #1, keep a file of graphics you can use as the occasion arises. I have separate folders with images, targeted video codes, and so on.
Adding graphics may add some time to your article, but it’s time well spent.
Tip #5 Editing time
This writing task is a must. Your writing is a reflection of you and your skills – make them shine.
Tip #6 The article length
Word count is a conflicting theory. There are many bloggers who say to give the reader more value with longer pieces of 1000 words or more. Others say to keep it around 400 or 500 words.
I’m in the middle. I say write the article as it comes out for your own blog.
If you’re trying to cut down on writing time, keep it shorter.
Tip #7 End it when it’s ended
Once you write and edit the piece, end it. Don’t keep going over it. This is one of my trouble spots. I’ll keep adding to it or tweaking it one way or another. This is just a waste of time. Don’t do it.
What strategies do you use to speed up your writing time?
***
Karen Cioffi is a former accountant who is now a multi-award-winning author, ghostwriter, freelance writer, editor, and author-writer online platform marketing instructor. She founded and manages Writers on the Move (a marketing group), and presents online writing and marketing workshops and webinars.
Karen has published 12 writing and marketing eBooks, the most recent, Article Marketing: Increase Website Traffic with Properly Formatted and Search Engine Optimized Content.
In addition to this, Karen’s website, Karen Cioffi Writing and Marketing, was named Writer’s Digest Website of the Week, June 25, 2012.
Join Karen Cioffi's upcoming online class, Become an SEO Writer in Just 4 Weeks. Visit our classroom page for details and enrollment.
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I don't know about you, but I can take a while to write an article, usually an hour and then some. Even if I have an idea, I still try to add extra value into the article by doing a bit of research and getting 'social proof' to back up what I'm saying.
Mulling it over, I came up with 7 tips to speed up your blog writing, while still keeping it optimized.
Tip #1 Keep a list of ideas (and information)
I’ve been keeping lists for years. And, with information permeating every nook and cranny of the internet, there’s never a lack of new ideas.
For quick research, keep files with links to articles on specific topics that you come across.
Tip #2 Use keywords
While you need to use keywords, don’t go crazy researching them. If you’re in a rush, just think of what you’d use to search for the topic you’re writing on.
Tip #3 Use bullet and numbered points
People love list articles. They’re easy to read and quick to scan.
In regard to writing time, using numbered points helps you organize your thoughts and content. This makes for quicker writing.
Tip #4 – Add graphics
Yes, you need graphics. As with Tip #1, keep a file of graphics you can use as the occasion arises. I have separate folders with images, targeted video codes, and so on.
Adding graphics may add some time to your article, but it’s time well spent.
Tip #5 Editing time
This writing task is a must. Your writing is a reflection of you and your skills – make them shine.
Tip #6 The article length
Word count is a conflicting theory. There are many bloggers who say to give the reader more value with longer pieces of 1000 words or more. Others say to keep it around 400 or 500 words.
I’m in the middle. I say write the article as it comes out for your own blog.
If you’re trying to cut down on writing time, keep it shorter.
Tip #7 End it when it’s ended
Once you write and edit the piece, end it. Don’t keep going over it. This is one of my trouble spots. I’ll keep adding to it or tweaking it one way or another. This is just a waste of time. Don’t do it.
What strategies do you use to speed up your writing time?
***
Karen has published 12 writing and marketing eBooks, the most recent, Article Marketing: Increase Website Traffic with Properly Formatted and Search Engine Optimized Content.
In addition to this, Karen’s website, Karen Cioffi Writing and Marketing, was named Writer’s Digest Website of the Week, June 25, 2012.
Join Karen Cioffi's upcoming online class, Become an SEO Writer in Just 4 Weeks. Visit our classroom page for details and enrollment.
