How to Write a Good Article
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HOW TO WRITE A GOOD ARTICLE
by Craig Lock
This article was written for the off-line "real") world some years
back; however, the principles apply also to cybersppace.
Firstly, carefully research and study your subject matter.
Think it all through very carefully, WHAT you are going to
say and HOW you are going to say it.
I believe the essence of writing a good interesting article
is simplicity, but with a touch (or could it be "tinge" of the
unusual).
Always aim for clarity and simplicity in your writing.
How long should your article be'
In writing for newspapers or popular magazines the
length is probably around 500-750 words (or one to
2 pages).
I would far rather read a 1000 word article giving
information that would help me, than a breezy 3000
word article of waffle that doesn't say much at all.
Always try to put yourself in the position of the reader.
After completion, re-read your article a number of times.
Polish it up by changing words and expressions.
Ensure that your article reads quickly and easily.
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Otherwise if an article is too long the reader can easily
lose concentration and give up.
Examine your sentences and paragraphs carefully to
ensure that the words flow smoothly.
A paragraph should deal with one idea, developed
in one or more sentences that logically
advances the points you are trying to make, add
meaning or develop thestory you are telling (the plot).
Always try to make your meaning clear.
Ensure that your sentences are well structured and
that your grammar iscorrect.
The first words of your article are of vital importance
to grab yourreader's attention.
You are doing a "selling" job to entice them to read
more - so make the reader want to read more.
Develop your theme logically. Carefully plan what
you are going to say.
Make a list of your main points.
Then progress from one to another (logically), so
that they lead to a conclusion.
For example
"...and that is why I think the resource management
act is good for the local environment."
or
"and that is why I believe all accountants and
actuaries should be set in concrete and used as
traffic bollards"
Oops sorry accountants and actuaries!
Do you know what an actuary is'
An accountant who didn't have the personality!
An Example Of An Article
Eg: You are writing about the growing popularity of
home computers.
Identify 4 or 5 main points:
say,
* cost
* who is buying them
* how they are being used
and
* implications for the future.
In a short article each of these points will be a paragraph.
In a longer article, the points will be developed.
Arrange your points logically.
You can include sub-points under each main point.
In the example on computers you may include:
* word processing
* computer games
* accounts
and
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* school work.
There are three main parts of any article.
Your article should have an introduction.
This introduces the reader to the subject.
Then the main body of the article which comprises most
of an article.
This then leads logically to a final deduction or conclusion.
This is essentially a summary of all the main points
mentioned before.
I believe the key to writing good articles lies in good
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__1. Focus on .....
PLANNING.
Collecting your material and thinking clearly.
Spend a quiet time thinking before you even set pen to paper.
Ask for inspiration.
Your article should answer the five questions of a very
inquisitive person:
WHO
WHAT
WHERE
HOW
and
WHEN
I've just remembered I used to drive my dad 'dilly' with
those questions when I was a kid.
"Inquisitive little bugger!"
As I mentioned, the title and your first words are of
vital importance to grab your reader's attention.
Make them want to read more.
......
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