Writing Tips: Advantages of Writing Articles from the First Person Perspective

While the first person perspective is largely discussed in the genres of fiction and poetry, it is also a useful point of view for writing articles in print and online.

The first person point of view is a point of view that employs “I” and “we”. There tends to be less formality than the third person perspective, which uses “he” or “she”.

Recently, I received comments on a few of my own articles from writers who did not realize the first person perspective can be used outside of the blogging realm.

There are many advantages to using the “I” viewpoint, provided it is allowed by the particular publisher to whom you write (check policy first).

A primary advantage of writing articles from the first person perspective is the ability to be relatable in tone and language. When the writer uses “I”, readers are brought into the author’s world and asked to see concepts through that set of eyes. The reader forms a connection with the writer.

As well, the writer is likely viewed by readers as less intimidating when this point of view is employed. The writer is opening up by sharing his or her own experiences with the topic at hand. There is a vulnerable side shown as the writer lets the reader into his or her own world. The connection deepens if the author exposes flaws or mistakes made as they relate to the article’s topic.

The "I" perspective also lends a sense of authority to the article. Why an SEO technique works, for example, is backed up by an author’s statements that he or she uses that particular method for a personal website. As the writer outlines individual successes and failures, the reader connects and sees proof of the method on the very page being read. Now that is a powerful message!

The message likely holds more weight than a reference to an article written by a website that the reader is not familiar with and won’t head to later.

Another advantage of writing articles from the first person point of view is that there is often added interest toward the writer.

Authors who share their own experiences are relatable, which means readers may want to peruse their other written works.

After forming a connection, as earlier described, readers may want to see what other ideas the author has to explain to them. For online writers who receive income based on page views, the rise in number of articles read per person is a definite benefit. Increased reads translates to increased earnings on a regular basis.

There are many useful reasons why writers choose to use the first person perspective for both online and written articles.

The point of view lends a sense of authority to the writer and likely increases interest in that person too. Tone and language are relatable when written from an "I" viewpoint, as well. Consideration of perspective is an important part of the article writing process.