Make More Through Your Online Writing

Have you joined just about every online writing site available, tapped your keys 'til you're numb, and still no profits? Are you desperate to figure out what it takes to make some bucks at this online posting/blogging thing? Let me offer you some help. (For examples, see rickzworld.)

Begin by ALWAYS using a good word processing program to compose your articles before posting them online. Check grammar and spelling and smooth flow. No one likes a poorly or sloppily prepared article, nor one with errors of neglect.

Proofread and re-proofread; enlist a friend or relative to also proofread if you can. Simple as well as subtle errors can evade even the best of grammar and spell check programs. Clarify unclear meanings, uproot clichés and awkward turns of phrase, and avoid quirky or abrupt thematic or plot shifts or changes of tone. Polish and refine your prose while you can. Once it's on the web, it's there forever, with limited opportunity to revise or correct.

Don't be a stranger to a good writing guide, a thesaurus or a dictionary. This is especially true if you are not a native English speaker. You must have a ready and versatile command of the language. You must also learn to be precise with your writing. Use exactly the correct word or words at all times, and avoid overusing the same words, especially trite 'faddish' words and specialized jargon.

Write as you speak — with your own personality, style, and conversational flow. The web is a fluid and interactive medium, more like the telephone and television than a library of scholarly volumes. You must capture viewers very quickly, with a distinctive message and flair.

Read as much or more than you write. Only by ingesting a steady stream of others' writings can you understand what is catchy, entertaining, informative, well-written and engaging.

Write about things dear to your heart, or subjects of which you have some deeper or more specialized understanding. Your passion and knowledge will be reflected in your writing, and will be transmitted to your reader.

Wherever possible, make use of appropriate illustrations, photos or videos. Humans are naturally drawn to images and moving images. They can add color, life, interest and dimension to your writing.

Good luck!