The reason I've become super interested in writing articles lately is after I produced an article called "7 reasons why you should talk to strangers". My best article so far.
My article got 16000+ views (tip: StumbleUpon) in 1 month. That seems ace to me. That's just less than $30 now. I know that's not a lot, but what about as time goes on and that article gets more popular and plus the benefits from me writing more articles like this one?
This sounds cheesy but I just love the feeling of tapping my fingers on the keyboard and producing something others can see comment and share their opinion on it.
I'm going to tell you a little bit about myself so hopefully you can relate and see where I'm coming from, writing articles and how to do it effectively. Don't know what to write about? I'll help you with that.
A Bit About Myself
I'm Chris, 19 at the moment and go to college (ICT, 4 years). My high school grades were crap, I was absent a lot, learnt a bit but nothing really important. I've learnt more from reading on the net and observation in the real world. I don't have a job and am looking to get one but for now I'm writing articles. I've written pretty crappy articles and some good articles. My English has improved over time and I think I'm pretty good at writing now.
So What?
My point is that you don't need to be told you're clever or smart by your friends, family, me or the authorities. My guess is that you probably are really smart in a certain area or areas of your life, it could be anything. Self belief and dedication is what you need. Thinking of doing something? Have an idea? You have to do it in the moment or you'll lose that inspiration and motivation to do it. Of course, excuses will crop up but it's how you deal with them and how you get over them. I know this and am no genius - I still make excuses from time to time.
What Should I Write About?
I personally think the best way to write an article is obviously writing about something you have a lot of experience with. You might even be unaware because you do these things with very little thought (subconsciously). Do you play games online? Write about it. Do you love writing? Write about that, kind of like how I'm doing. What kind of value can you offer to people? Writing is offering value in itself. Maybe you ski, sing or are a photographer. It could be a made up story, share your imagination.
What do you enjoy doing? Earn a bit of money on the side by writing about it.
How do I Produce Quality Articles?
Actually know what you're writing about, use good English spelling and grammar. If you're spelling and grammar is poor then you might want to work on that. I've always been a good speller. Quality articles come from writing a lot. Get through a couple of bad articles if you have to. I've read articles that I wrote a couple of years ago which I read again and realise I've improved.
Don't fall into the trap of thinking you have to write a lot either. The more you say the more people have to think, it's easier to get distracted or bored. Saying less makes your message more powerful. This doesn't just apply to writing either, it's very powerful in everyday face to face communication.
This doesn't mean you shouldn't write a lot. If you have a lot of good to say then say it but don't add things that aren't necessary. Also, don't repeat your points unless you're wording them in a different way to hammer home your message.
But I Don't Have the Time
Are you sure about that? Set a useful habit of writing an hour every day. If you can't do that, do it for two hours every week on a Sunday or something. Make time.
Good luck if you choose to write.
If you've read this please "thumbs up" and leave a quick review on StumbleUpon or Digg this. This will help spread value I want to offer.
Praise and criticism is welcome.
