Because it doesn't have to be that complicated, even if you're writing about rocket science

You want to create content for your website or blog, but you have no idea where to start. And with all the tips, tricks and fads online, it's easy to lose focus and forget the power of the basics.

Help is here.

If you start with these three simple ingredients, you will be creating content anyone will want to read... and everyone can easily understand.

1. Attention-grabbing headlines

If you can't get their attention at the top, don’t expect them to read what's below.

Think about why people come to you: Are they looking for affirmation or entertainment? Maybe they're looking for help or enlightenment.

First you have to know what they need and then try to figure out how you can give it to them.
 
Let's say people struggle with, I dunno, writing attention-grabbing headlines. Then your headline should promise to help them do just that.

So how about this for a headline?

5 Easy Steps to Help You Write Attention-Grabbing Headlines

See what I mean?

Using a number like 5 offers substance – the promise of something specific... and structure – quick and easy to read and follow.

You also promised each step would be easy, so they will be expecting that.

And you should follow through.

You should give them 5 steps. They should be easy. And, they should help them write headlines that demand attention.

2. Graphics, white space & bullet points

There's nothing more boring than staring at a page of words, words, and more words.

Break it up! Add a picture, a video, some charts (relevant, of course), and even though this isn't really a graphic, never underestimate the power of white space.
 

(beautiful white space)

And, breaking out your content into numbered or bulleted lists makes your writing more readable... because it:

• Highlights important information
• Brings the reader's attention to the information quickly
• Makes your content easier to read, scannable, and
• Delivers information in bite sizes that are easy to digest

3. Simple language

Nothing sends readers running for the hills like utilizing highfalutin terminology, unnecessary vocabulary and industry-specific jargon.

See what I mean?

And no, I'm not suggesting that you "dumb it down." But, your readers want to understand what you are saying without having to guess or think too much.

Are they lazy?

No...

They just have a helluva lot more stuff to do than sit there and try to figure out what you're saying.

So keep it simple...

And while you're at it, keep it conversational. You're not writing an essay, you're talking to a friend.

Use the Active Voice.

Instead of: Our Rock-a-Bye Baby rocker was constructed to assist infants who have difficulty falling asleep readily.

Try: We made Rock-a-Bye Baby rocker to help babies fall asleep faster.

And don't make it all about you and your product; tell your customers what's in it for them. 

Try this: We made Rock-a-Bye Baby rocker to help your baby fall asleep faster... so you can rest more.

Use short words:

• Get vs. receive
• Use vs. utilize
• Show vs. indicate
• Help vs. assistance
• Give vs. render

So let's sum it up.

If you want people to read your stuff and understand it, use attention-grabbing headlines, break up the text with graphics, bullet points and white space... and, keep the language simple!

What's stopping you from creating great content for your website or blog? I'd like to help. Just share your biggest challenge in the comments section. And look out for my next blog post on writing great headlines.