Web Content - Writing for the Internet

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The worldwide boom of the Internet generated a minefield of lucrative opportunities for businesses and professionals-including writers. Once confined to the limited requirements of traditional media, writers now have a wide range of career options.

Initially, you might think preparing Web content means writing an article. That's right. But to come to think of it, Web content per se actually comes in many forms. It is not restricted to articles. That's because Web content refers to every single thing you see on the Net. Everything you see and read on advertisements, social media, blogs, and websites are all Web content.

The broadness of Web content speaks of the many jobs available for writers. It is for this reason that some argue about specializing in a particular field. However, dabbling to know a bit of everything is just as vital as focusing in a particular area of expertise. Whichever path you choose to take, there are a few factors to consider when writing for the Web.

Be it 10,000 words that will make up an entire site or a single sentence on an ad, Web content is influenced by various elements. These elements make up the ABC's of writing: Asses, Bait, and Correct.

Assess Content Requirements

Every communication channel is influenced by certain variables. You, the content creator, must ascertain that the requisites of these variables are met. Considerably, it is your prime obligation. Traditional or new media, these variables can be summarized into three:

1. Purpose
2. Readers
3. Client 

Content revolves around a particular intention. Knowing your purpose is probably the most crucial step before proceeding with any other task. It determines the direction towards your ultimate goal: producing the required material.

A good grasp of what your client needs and what your readers want helps mold your content into what's suitable and acceptable. Remember: the rule that customers are always right is a myth. Although readers are the ultimate receiver, the client is your QA. The absolute arbitrator, the client has the last say whether or not to publish your work.

Bait Reader Attention 

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With hundreds of pages published daily, what are the guarantees that your targeted readers would spot and read your content? In a single page, how can you be sure someone will notice your ad measuring two inches in length and width? Imagine the chances if it is placed at the bottom of the page. It would have to scream to be heard.

To address this problem, ask yourself two simple questions: Why should people read my content? How can I get them to read it?

Answering those questions increases your chances of being noticed and read. In the process, throw in effective digital marketing strategies to boost traffic and ranking.

Correct, Correct, Correct

It cannot be emphasized more. Edit, edit, edit. Proofread, proofread, proofread. You can reason all you want, but you have to make it the final step before turning in your work. Even if you're not an editor, it is your duty to go over your work. Even professional writers obsess over proofreading their manuscripts that they end up with a pile of revisions. It does not end there. They instinctively check published works for errors-just in case.

Give as much time as you can to editing and proofreading your work. Writing can be a breeze when you're in the zone. But editing and proofreading are burdensome and strenuous. You have to mercilessly restructure sentences, scrap out entire paragraphs, or start over from scratch if needed. 

As an online writer, bear in mind that speed and global reach are two of the most remarkable features of the Internet. You can instantly deliver your content to every corner of the globe as soon as you hit the "publish" button. A simple grammar mistake, misspelled word, and an extra period overlooked are enough reasons for readers to get turned off.

The Internet is a massive digital cosmos. Knowing the nuts and bolts of writing for the Internet will help you find your way around and open doors of career opportunities. Moreover, it takes away all the complications and makes your job fun and simple.

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