Six Simple Secrets to Boost Your Writing and Improve Your Search Results
Ever since Google’s algorithm changed, professional bloggers are increasingly focusing on producing quality, long-form content. Blogs or articles which are 3000 words plus are more likely to land on the first page of popular search engines, making them one of the best online marketing strategies to follow.
Content over 3000 words also blurs the line between a guide and an article, thereby making it a unique type of content which is detailed, but not long enough to become boring. While long-form content can be difficult and time consuming, we have compiled a list of 6 simple secrets to help you write long articles easily. All you need is an idea, good research skills and some time on your hands.
1 – Write What You Know
Articles written by authors who are not well-versed in the subject, often lack meaning. It is not the writer’s fault – not everyone is expected to know everything. There is also no guarantee that the writer will understand the subject or subtle nuances even after thorough research. Hence, it is always better to write about what you know and are familiar with, especially if your aim is to write 3000+ words.
Articles by authors who know what they are writing about generally read better. They also contain useful information and additional insights which can be very valuable, especially to online readers who are inundated on a daily basis by ‘puff’ or meaningless articles.
2 – Steal B2B Ideas
If you’re ever stuck for ideas, simply browse the web and look at what some of the biggest influencers in your industry are doing. This can be really beneficial, particularly if you’re having trouble understanding who exactly you audience is and what kind of information they want. Aren’t sure it will work? Just take a look at this guide by Codeless which gives you 20 reasons why you should be embracing B2B copywriting ideas.
3 – Carry out Research
Using or referring to authentic sources is crucial to ensuring that your article is a success, as they provide necessary information/tools for building stronger arguments. Without good sources, you cannot gain readers’ trust, and your 3000 words will be wasted.
While looking for sources, you need to establish certain criteria; they need to be relevant to the field/subject and have to be trustworthy. Industry/company blogs, research-based sites and online publications are usually considered to be credible sources. These are also known as ‘primary sources of information’ as they contain original content and first-hand research.
4 –Write in Detail
Many short articles of 500 words or less do not have enough details to capture the readers’ interest or make a strong impact. While shorter content is useful under the right circumstances, if you are trying to establish your brand image and authority, then is it important for your articles to be longer and detailed.
Many writers assume that their readers will automatically know what they are writing about. However, this is a mistake which can cost you the reader’s attention, or worse, serve to alienate the reader. Hence, as a rule it is better to add well-researched details. Once you start writing, try to write whatever comes to your mind without stopping. You can always go back and edit/revise your content.
5 –Get Rid of Distractions
Writing 3000+ articles can be hard – you may lose track of what you were writing about or an important point can slip your mind. While we suggest that you create an outline/draft for exactly this reason, it is important to avoid distractions which can continuously interrupt your flow.
Many writers prefer to sit in tea shops or cafes to write. While this may work for some, your surroundings can be a major source of distraction. It is not easy to concentrate on your work in the midst of continuous hustle and bustle.
It is recommended that you turn off your mobile phone or disconnect from the internet as well. Regular updates from Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram can interrupt your flow and make you forget good points.
6 – Create an Outline
This is one of the most important aspects of ensuring that you are ready to write a long-form article. It is important to look at your topic, carry out research on it and create an outline which can guide you throughout the process of writing.
People associate outlines with long research papers. However, creating an outline for an article is simpler than forming one for an academic paper. For example, you can start by simply making a list of the sub-headings you wish to include in the article or jotting down the things you wish to cover. If you already know the subject, this should not take long – we advise you to spend no more than an hour or two drafting an outline.
Long form, quality content which is meaningful and well-researched is more likely to attract and retain visitors’ attention, thereby increasing your readership and chances of loyal customers. Additionally, long articles lend you a sense of authority, attract more backlinks and help you create a marketing strategy for the long term.
