Writing Tips for Content Creation: Using Basic Form and Vocabulary for Scanning Eyes
Usually, writing tips for content creation focus on using specific keywords for the sake of SEO. They don't always hone in on writing for your overall audience and how it's perceived by a culture now wanting information faster than ever. When you write content for sharing on social media, you're going to have to look at it from the perspective of someone reading it for the first time while seeking out that information. And seeking quick information is usually the main reason someone clicks on a social media link or visits a website in the first place.
Your best place to start is in looking at the overall architecture of your content and structuring things to prevent a roaming eye.
Placing Vital Information in the First Paragraph
Everyone knows what a hook is in journalism, and you should do the same in any content creation. Whether it be a blog or a lengthy editorial, you have to grab the reader with something enticing. Conversely, you obviously don't want to give everything away. But just give enough enticing information that persuades them to read on. Sometimes this comes in the form of a question or a hint of something that forces the reader into think mode.
Despite this technique, it can't really stand alone. If your ensuing paragraphs are overly long, you have the risk of losing a reader.
Avoid Thick Paragraphs
Readers today have a tendency to scan content before they even begin reading it carefully. Just like a physical structure, immediate feelings can be felt seeing how something is constructed. Thick paragraphs that go on for pages are equivalent to someone on the ground looking up at the Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai, UAE.
When people want quick information, they no longer sit down and patiently read a long article. They want key points that can give them some quick ideas of what the content is about. You're better off writing very short paragraphs that don't waste time getting to the point about your topic.
While this might seem disconcerting to those who like the craft of more elaborate writing and sharing it online, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to scrimp on material. High quality content is still in demand. The only difference is in how you structure it.
Creating Bullet Points
One of the first things people do when scanning is look for highlights in the text. Bullet points are an excellent way to use bold highlights for basic details of the overall content. For those visiting for research, it can be a true time saver. Those just reading for general information will likely read the bullet points first and then perhaps back up to read the rest of the piece in totality.
Also use subheadings for better organization of your content. Sometimes readers are just looking for one piece of key information. They can find it with the use of subheadings or other highlights of important sentences.
Vocabulary
Thinking about your demographic and the vocabulary you use is always worth considering. Regardless, you should really write simply for all demographics. The attention deficit problem in readers makes up everyone, no matter what industry they work in or their age. Writing simply and clearly as possible will tap into the general population mindset, and they'll appreciate you for the effort.
Contact us here at Crowd Siren to learn more about online media, communications, and branding. We're a Las Vegas-based online media marketing and PR company that wants to help you communicate your brand better to prospective customers.
By: Alyssa Rao
