Writers have a difficult time deciding what to blog about. Finding topics comes up regularly in writer chats. I've never understood it because a lack of ideas never is my problem. My greatest issue is finding time to blog, not determining what to write. Perhaps part of the reason people can't find ideas is that they are unaware of all of the … [Read more...]
8 Tips for Writing List Posts Readers Will Love
I know that some people don't like list posts. I've read all the snobs talking about how they're not really writing and don't benefit readers. I totally disagree! I love reading list posts, and I love writing them too. And, guess what? Your readers like lists too. This post provides eight tips for writing list posts readers will love. Why Blog … [Read more...]
How to Write a Professional Bio
People are checking you out online, and you need to know how to write a professional bio you want them to see. More than 70 percent of hiring managers use social media to screen candidates. About half report using Google searches to learn about potential employees and say they wouldn't hire someone if they couldn't find them online. And … [Read more...]
How to Cure Writer’s Block
I almost didn't write this post. I mean, I started trying to write it about nine hours ago. I knew I needed to write a post for today, but I just really wasn't in the mood to write. Instead, I watched some Netflix, played with the dog, ran an errand or two, and even cleaned. You know it's bad when you'd rather clean than write. Then I had an … [Read more...]
The AP Number Game
My favorite thing about Associated Press Style is that the rules help you know how to write certain things... except when the rule doesn't apply. Did you read my sarcasm in the last line? I hope so. Numbers are a perfect example of this AP Style rule that is not really a rule. The general rule is that numbers 10 or more should be written as … [Read more...]
31 Practical Tips to Improve Your Writing Overnight
I don't know any writer who doesn't want to be better at the craft. I'd be dishonest if I didn't tell you that the best way to improve your writing is to write. But just telling you to write isn't overly helpful. Instead, here are some things (big and small) you can do to improve your writing now. 1. Improve your information gathering As they … [Read more...]
Advice for writing editorials worth reading
Editor's note: I updated this post on Feb. 16, 2021 to include updated examples and wording. It's that time of year. Ugh! Many students are feeling stressed as midterms loom. Ugh! The student government met this week. Double ugh! These are just a few examples of leads from the one type of writing that has plagued every student editorial board … [Read more...]