Tip number two is also simple but hard for many to take to heart. When writing about a general problem, such as with a certain kind of product or service, try to refrain from mentioning any company by name. The reason for this is because again, you are opening yourself up to being sued. If you speak in generalities, nobody in particular can come after you. For example, let's say you want to warn people about a certain kind of investing. As long as you don't mention any investment companies by name, you're safe.
Use the inverted pyramid technique. Saving the most essential information for last when writing your news articles isn't really a good idea. Why? Well the people you're serving have short attention span and they would rather get the information they need ASAP than wait. So, answer all their possible questions and give them the gist of your story on your first paragraph.
These three major rules apply to all online writing. Besides them, there are some other points to keep in mind as well. One of them is that my writing style and approach depends on what kind of a website I am writing for. A blog entry is different from an article, and an article is different from a review. Even within such a specific category as reviews, there can be a wide variety of requirements. To narrow it down even more, let us take book reviews. I have written for websites that want you to re-tell the plot, and I have written for websites that asked to focus on analysis, personal impression and opinion without spoiling the book by revealing its plot twists.
I should note that my opinions on this matter reflect my own experience. I independently published my first novel ten years ago, after several years of struggling to secure a traditional publishing contract. I managed to sell close to 5,000 copies in a two-year period, and made some connections that led to me finally landing a book deal with a major publisher.
Write something that is newsworthy. Unlike when writing articles for the web or for magazines, you're expected to write about recent and newsworthy events when writing for newspapers. Remember, it's your job to keep your readers posted on the things that are going on around them. So, instead of writing about tips and how-to guides, explore the most recent events that have direct impact to their lives.
Now in print, it's time to promote. Every writer is different. Perhaps you're ready to hit the road to do book signings, willing to set up speaking engagements or seminars, send out press releases, or explore the myriad ways you can promote yourself. One thing writers discover is if they want to see real income from their writing, it takes more than just having a book or article in print.
Then there's the matter of promotion. You can't start planning to promote too soon. Many book writers wait until the book is in print and anticipate that once this happens, sales will start rolling in without their having to do anything else. This isn't realistic. There are many options to plan and strategize how you will promote and when to get started. As a writer, if you haven't looked online for the numerous free e-zines and Websites for writers, this is something you should do, even if for a couple of hours each week as you're in the writing stage. These freebies offer a wealth of information for writers from Writing Tips to publicity and promotion.
So for those of use that just want to turn on the light, let me boil down this tip down to its essence. The word "would" should be removed whenever possible to maintain consistent tense.
When I write, having an outline is essential because it helps me put my ideas in order and "on paper". This helps me focus on writing, instead of wasting time on another round or two of research. There's no "set" standard for an outline, just jot down your main topics, and a couple initial thoughts for each (link if needed) and use the outline to stay on topic.
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