A step by step guide to writing a blog post or essay
When I write for myself, I start with an idea.
An idea than comes from audience research, brainstorming or maybe just a random thought that pops up unexpectedly.
Workflow
I start with SEO research for which I use Brandoverflow (no affiliate) and Google Search.
The next step is topic research. This means I will read the top 3–5 search results for the main keyword and do a quick search in my own notes in Evernote (no affiliate).
I copy/paste the best information into a document.
Then two things happen simultaneously:
- It sparks more curiosity for specific questions.
- I start organising the outline of the essay.
Now, I do a second round of research with more specific search queries.
When I feel I have 90% of the best information, I stop my research. Any research beyond this point won’t be time-efficient.
It’s time to go through the information and organise it in the correct section (intro, conclusion, below subtitle 1, below subtitle 2 … ) What doesn’t fit, goes in to the “recycling bin” for future use in other blog posts.
Once everything is organised, I start refining the text.
- I reorganise the ideas per section.
- I rewrite what I copy-pasted.
- I mix ideas.
- I add a bit of personal flavour.
Voilà. I’m done writing a blog post for the day. The first draft is finished.
I come back later to edit and review.
Photo by Olena Sergienko on Unsplash.