How to Format Your Blog
Why Proper Blog Formatting Matters for Non-Fiction Authors
Here at Book Boost, we believe that blogging remains a key element of successful book promotion in the ever-evolving world of online content. But it isn't enough just to set up a blog. Whether you're a seasoned author or a newbie who has just completed your first manuscript, understanding how to format your blog effectively can make or break your online presence. It's not just about the words you write; it's also how they're presented to your readers.
So, let's dive into the world of formatting and discover five tips to make your blog shine!
- Don't Get Fancy with Fonts and Sizes When it comes to font choices, simplicity is key. Stick with clean, professional fonts that are easy on the eye. Avoid using funky or elaborate fonts that distract readers from your content. Remember those good old days when your teachers insisted on Times New Roman? Well, they knew what they were doing. And let's not forget about font sizes. Keep your headlines and sub-headlines larger for emphasis, but maintain a consistent size for the body of your post. Bigger doesn't always mean better, so resist the urge to highlight words with larger font sizes.
- Embrace the Power of Lists Creating lists, such as this one, is your secret weapon for both organising your content and engaging with your audience. Lists help readers grasp the key points of your blog and decide if it's worth their time. Many readers will skim read an article, and lists provide an easily accessible structure to help them decide if it is relevant. So, break down your content into digestible bullet points or numbered lists to make it reader-friendly and visually appealing.
- Keep It Simple and Concise Simplicity is effective. Stick to a straightforward structure: an opening sentence, three supporting sentences, and a smooth transition to the next paragraph. Keep your paragraphs concise and focused, ensuring that each one delivers valuable information that will not overwhelm your readers.
- Use Subheadings to Guide Readers Online readers are notorious for skimming content. Use sub-headings to catch their attention and keep them engaged. Subheadings break up your ideas and allow readers to find the specific information they're seeking quickly. Make your subheadings descriptive and engaging. Remember, the goal is to make your content accessible and appealing to busy readers.
- Find the Perfect Column Width Column width may not be a topic of everyday conversation, but it's a crucial element in blog formatting. The width of your columns directly affects readability and user experience. When columns are too wide, readers may need to scroll horizontally, which is a big turn-off. Aim for a column width of no more than 80 characters to ensure optimal compatibility across different devices and platforms.
- Formatting is the Unsung Hero Creating remarkable blog content is not just about the words you write; it's also about how you present them. Proper formatting is the unsung hero that ensures your valuable insights and knowledge are easily accessible and enjoyable for your readers. So, embrace these formatting tips, captivate your audience, and keep them coming back for more.
One of the things that we always emphasis at Book Boost is the importance of consistency with your marketing and promotion. Blogging is often a key part of the quest to publish, promote, and profit from your non-fiction book, and we hope this article underlines how every detail counts.
Happy blogging!