Blog writing guideline

How to write a blog post in 7 steps

The following are steps to guide you as you write the blog (Brown, 2021);

1. Address a compelling topic

A good quality blog addresses an interesting topic that appeals to the target audience.

2. Develop a great title

Titles are very important in drawing in readers to your blog – the title should be appealing to the readers to encourage them to read the blog.

3. Create an outline for the blog

Develop an outline for the blog based on how you want your ideas to flow (thought process). This enables the readers to relate to your point of view.

4. Explain your connection to the topic

A blog is a personal form of writing in which the author connects with the audience through the content of the blog.

5. Clear layout

The blog should have a visually clear layout, this includes short paragraphs with clear headings to enable the readers to follow the author’s thought process.

6. Conclusion(Propose solutions)

The last section of the blog should include a clear conclusion or solution to the issue that has been discussed.  The author should provide a well-sourced case study that is linked to the issue discussed.

7. Proofread

Read through the blog once the first draft has been completed to correct typos and other grammar related errors.

Note: If your blog is based on your research or someone else’s research please ensure that you mention this, give a brief background of the study and cite it if possible.

Blog Structure

The standard structure of a blog is as follows;

1. Headline

Your headline should serve one purpose, Grab the reader’s attention. The following elements in a headline will make it a success.

• Grab Attention – Millions of other articles are in direct competition with your headline. This implies that it must immediately grab your readers’ attention and alert their interest.
• Generates Curiosity – An effective headline gets your readers curious and encourages them to continue reading.
• Promises a benefit – Readers only care about how you can help them solve their pain points. What advantages can you give readers? How can you improve their quality of life?
• Specific – a confused reader is the last thing you want. Your headline should always be clear and specific so that readers know that it’s intended for them.

2. By Line

This is the name of the author of the blog, mostly you and your co-authors.

3. Catchy Picture

An image in a blog post is a great way to break up text volume.

4. Introduction

Here is where you hook the reader. Tell people why they need to read your blog. (Include the 5W’s and H – Who, what, when, where, why, and how).

5. Lead In

After the intro, move on to the ‘meat’ of the story E.g., The main points are…… (Not necessary if you don’t have points).

6. Body

Deliver and break down your main points. Write every detail for your reader.

7. Conclusion

This is a closing paragraph to wrap up your blog that doesn’t leave your readers hanging.

8. Invitation for Feedback

Leave a call to action at the end of your blog to engage people. Some things as simple as “What do you think? You can contact me/us for feedback on…[1]”