Writing for the web

The main aspects of writing for the web is determining what is going on for the user. With the web there is a lot more distractions, pop ups, other tabs and also the fact the people use the web while they are doing primary tasks such as working. Unlike a newspaper where you are able to give it full attention and to lay it down ready for when you next have time to read more.

Observing that the web is predominantly used by people at work or doing these other tasks means the writing first and foremost must be interesting and quick to the point. The writing MUST keep the reader engaged. This improves chances of the reader coming back to look at other written pieces.

In a practical sense the way an article is layed out on the page also helps the user keep focused. By chunking into 4/5 sentences per paragraph it breaks the text up making it easier to take in information. Also keeping what is written short, usually 50% less than what you would write for a magazine or newspaper. Using hyper-link text to give the reader the opportunity to expand on what is being told, and giving the writer the more freedom.

An inverted pyramid style of writing used for predominantly for news stories is helpful. As its easy for the reader to click away and still get the main points. which brings us back to keeping it interesting. With an effective first paragraph, the reader will want to carry on reading the article.

Humour is deemed to be good thing when writing on the web, but its important to be careful as people may not be familiar with your sense of humour, and it could come across the wrong way. Writing for the web gives you a chance to be a lot more informal and expressive but always keep in mind , what you are writing for? who your writing is aimed at?

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER:

• Useability
• Chunking
• Keep it interesting
• Inverted pyrmaid
• Use humour but be careful