Write it right

Writing content for the web?

Here are 10 quick tips to help you present your information in a way that works better online:

  • write in plain English
  • use everyday language and avoid impersonal bureacratise or confusing jargon
  • cover the most important information up front
  • create scannable text by using meaningful subheadings and bullet points to break up your content
  • keep your sentences short
  • stick to one idea per paragraph (and keep them short too)
  • provide just enough context so each page makes sense on its own (for visitors who land directly on that page)
  • use about half as many words as you would for printed documents
  • avoid fancy formatting and too many links within the text
  • write for your audience first, then tweak for keywords and other search engine optimisation techniques.

 

Cinden Lester has more than 25 years’ experience as a professional writer, editor and communications specialist. She worked as a broadcast journalist, in private sector marketing and public relations, and in government communications before establishing her own Canberra-based communications consultancy in 2000.

Contact Cinden if you’d like help with your communications.

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