An advantage of web pages over printed pages is that you gain the ability to edit post-publication on some websites. So when are you done?
Publish Insights 17 July 2021
Don’t Get Lost in Words
One of the most difficult things about writing is knowing when to end. Sure, you may have an introduction and body of your article. But the story seems unending or stops abruptly. Articles based on fluid news reports have never-ending references that can extend an article indefinitely.
An arguable advantage of web pages over printed pages is that you gain the ability to edit post-publication on some websites. So when are you done? You may never finish unless you rein in your objectives.
The point of your subject should be clear with the absence of grammatical errors. But this does not distinguish your writing from anyone else.
Structure Your Ideas
It is helpful to keep a journal for jotting down thoughts that arise throughout the day. Some people prefer pen and paper. If you use an iPad, the Notes or Pages apps are fine, though many third-party apps are available.
You might begin with just a headline and a couple of sentences. Some writers prefer to draft an outline. Over a span of time, keep adding content. Don’t get distracted with unrelated ideas. Jot them down elsewhere for future consideration. Include references at the bottom of your notes in case there’s a need to add more clarity to some paragraphs later.
As you flesh out the story, use words that convey the proper mood. A dictionary has a vast amount of entries. There is no need to include them all. Don’t let your words get in the way of the story. Good word selection can reduce the word count for concise reading.
When you have a viable article, the real finessing begins. Keep reading it to hear how it flows. Insert appropriate subheads. If you can, have your computer read the article aloud while following along. Did you explain unfamiliar terms to your audience? Is the story engaging or just a compilation of mediocre facts?
From literary and visual standpoints, can you illustrate the key thoughts? Do you need to add phrases or keywords to improve search engine optimization? Proofread again. If available, have someone else read it and provide constructive feedback.
Memorable Conclusions
Some endings sound like the writer ran out of time or reached a target word count. It’s like a car chase that ends in the fog just before the closing credits roll on screen. The audience leaves wondering, what happened? Make a point that rewards the reader for reaching this destination.
- Resolve an issue mentioned within introduction.
- Illustrate how developed points defy assumptions.
- Summarize benefits of material under discussion.
- Reveal positive outcome for applying suggestions.
- Answer questions raised throughout your article.
- Resolve a mystery introduced earlier in the story.
- Build to a crescendo for a climactic conclusion.
- Allow reader to apply content to deduce outcome.
- Leave a cliffhanger for a subsequent article.
Bring your article into the online publishing platform if you have access to it. There, you can add appropriate style and attribution tags. Format so main points stand out.
With a good conclusion, you motivate readers to action and make key points memorable. You will gain recognition and more work as a worthy author. Now begin telling your story so you can write that spectacular ending.
Main photo by Vlada Karpovich from Pexels.
