For most people, staring at a blank page knowing you want to write something of value is quite intimidating. We know what you’re thinking. But so many people write their own blogs. If so-and-so can do it, why can’t I? You absolutely can.
Many resources can give you a useful jumping-off point and guide you quickly past that elusive blank page. The first step is to read other blogs in your industry. This will give you loads of inspiration. You’ll learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to make it your own.
But most successful blogs have a few things in common, one of which is the format. Especially if you’re just looking to get started with writing, it helps to choose one of these common formats. It will give you direction and structure instead of a vast empty page.
1. Lists – This is by far the most common format and easiest to write. Start by coming up with an introduction, then give yourself at least five bullet points on your list. For some reason, people love a Top 5! But, you can really go with any number. Write down your bullet points first before you get into explaining each one. Then, you have more control over how long your article is because you can make the explanation for each point a similar length.
2. “Best Of” Roundup – This is similar to the “list” format, but it involves your favorite recommendations. For example, “Top 10 Sneakers for Runners.” You’d list each sneaker, why it makes the list, pros and cons, then include a link to purchase. When readers click the link, it takes them to a place like Amazon, where they can read additional information, reviews, and even buy them if they’d like. If you want to take this one step further, become an affiliate seller on Amazon, and get a small percentage from each purchase made from your link.
3. How-To – Think of this as your own personal lesson to share with followers. Is your blog a place where people come to learn gardening, DIY, skateboarding, or even financial investing? Then “How-To” is a great format for you. Try to keep your topic a bit narrow and explain something specific, step-by-step, in each article. If the subject is too broad, the article may get too lengthy, and you’re missing out on an opportunity to spread your knowledge out across many articles.
4. Personal Story – Everybody loves a blogger they can relate to. Personal stories make people feel like they’re not alone—and if the author got through it, so can I! Start off by presenting your dilemma, how you came up with a plan, roadblocks you encountered, what you learned along the way, and how the situation resolved itself. Not only will your story be helpful to others, but writing in a personal style can be extremely cathartic.
If you have some blog post ideas, consider how they would work if written in each of these formats. Once you’ve chosen one, just go for it. There’s no wrong way to write a blog. And if you dive in and don’t love the direction, there’s always the delete button. Each time you write an article, it’s a wonderful learning experience. Happy blogging!
