Article writing is the bread and butter for most freelance writers. However, the market is competitive and only those that deliver high quality pieces are guaranteed top dollar. Such writers enjoy their work and do not simply survive.
The following are time-tested strategies that will help you create top-notch articles to compete with the best in the freelance writing industry:
1. Research thoroughly
In the rush to meet deadlines and impress clients with your speed of delivering articles, you are likely to end up with a text you will regret having written. There is no excuse for a writer to create a shallow and simplistic article when the internet is awash with materials on all sorts of topics. Take time to gather relevant information and read what others have written before beginning to craft the best web content.
2. Brainstorm to get ideas
Thinking about a topic before writing is an important step towards creating a winning piece of writing. Having collected materials on the topic and looked at it from different angles, it is now time to map out your article. While there are computer models for brainstorming, nothing works better than raw thinking and mapping using pen and paper. Come up with a topic and create the necessary linkages in your text.
3. Organize your ideas
Writing an article demands that you create a piece that will not force readers to guess what you are trying to say in Paragraph 1 or Paragraph 2 or the linkage between various sections. You need to decide whether your article will take a narrative form, logical approach or even a chronological slant. Whichever method you choose, your writing must flow naturally. You must, therefore, create an outline that links different parts of your piece of writing.
4. Be psychologically involved
While it is easy to be passionate when you are writing on a topic you like or believe in, the same cannot always be said of paid article writing where the client decides on the topic. However, as a professional writer, it is imperative that you collect relevant information and find an angle that excites you since this enthusiasm must be transmitted to readers. Remember real people will read your work and you must find a way of attracting their attention.
5. Create a draft
Writing an article based on the outline you created while organizing your work is the way to go. Drafting is not about being right but capturing the essence of your text. Don't bother with the underlined words on your word processor; time will come to fix all errors. Pour out your heart as the ideas come to mind. When you are sure you have said all you wanted to, stop.
6. Edit your draft
Now you can work on the errors you made on the draft. At this point, remember you are working on both mechanical and content errors. It is important to begin with the latter. Ensure the content flows naturally and that you do not have unexplained or contradictory ideas. Check the instructions once again to make sure you have left out nothing. Proceed to check grammar, spelling and punctuation. Online software can come in handy, but trust your eye as well.
7. Polish your article
Read it once again. Your aim should be to eliminate any errors and ensure the text is readable. Read it aloud, if possible, and listen to your voice. Do you sense the excitement that will imbue the reader? Is your writing convincing? Can that product description convince a person to buy the product? The best web content has the desired effects. Don't send the document to your client until you are convinced you have followed all instructions and given it your best shot.
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