How To Write Digital Articles
Key Points
Don't aim to make the piece as broad as possible, because then it'll suit no one. So, think of your target reader profiles. Always stick to plain English. Using bold, hyperlinks, subheadings and having spaced out texts are ideal key aspects to include.
Where to put Key Details
80% of eyes on a document are at the top and 70% of eyes on a document are to the left, creating an F shape. Therefore, summaries and key words/info go at the top and towards the left.
Make sure any 'calls to action' e.g. attending an event, registering for the club, are really clear and are at the start and end of the piece. As people who skim read or want to find the point of the article right away, may be more likely to engage.
How to keep your reader engaged
It's good to have a rhetorical question at the very start. And when that answer is a yes, you immediately have their attention.
Think about exchanging something- if something is offered to the reader first e.g. a free trial or useful information, there's a feeling of indebtedness to return a favour. So it greatly helps to increase engagement. "FOMO" (which stands for ‘Fear of Missing Out) is always a good tactic to get people to engage too!
Useful Websites
The HootThe Hoot: The Students Association online magazine is a space for OU students to share their tools and experiences with the wider community.
HubSpot: a random generator if you're struggling for a blog title.
Coschedule: gives you suggestions for a headline and a subject of your article.
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