Find Your Writing Niche: 5 steps to starting a blog

Hyeres, France

Writers want to write—all the time.

Beginning writers can start with a blog.

Step 1: Choose a topic

Write 25 things you are interested in doing, e.g., traveling, swimming, jogging, sewing, watching sit coms, attending concerts. Consider how you spend each day.

Step 2: Search the Internet

 You want to learn how many blogs are already on the topic/s you’re considering.

Step 3: Choose a platform

 The grunt work is already done for you. Look at http://thenextweb.com/apps/2013/08/16/best-blogging-services.

Also check out http://www.appolicious.com/tech/articles/9924-top-25-essential-iphone-ipad-blogging-apps-used-by-real-bloggers.

Which platform suits your needs? I started 5 years ago with Blogger and was able to do all the work myself. A year ago I switched to WordPress but needed help developing it. I wanted my Web site, blog and social media all in the same place and didn’t have the time to designate to the project. I took a course from Pat Haggerty (hagg@mindspring.com), and it was invaluable.

Step 4: Make the blog short and sweet

Include pertinent information. Try to make the blog in list format so readers can get the most information in the least number of words.

Step 5: Choose a consistent time to post

Decide how often you want to post and do it consistently. I write two blogs. I post “Find Your Writing Niche” on Tuesdays, and “Women and Adversity” on Thursdays. I schedule the blogs ahead of time so they are posted at midnight Eastern Time. I also include a picture with each blog. I’ll explain that in an upcoming blog.