Writing Skill: Basic Article Structure
Posted in Blog Tips | By AhTim @ July 7th, 2008
We always say Content is King. No good content, no traffic, no money! The question is how to write good content? Actually good content come from our basic article structure.
Why we need a basic article structure before start writing? Sometime we have very good idea content, but fail to organize into good article structure. Hence end up with grandmother story that nobody want to read. 
Basic Article Structure
Different article type need different structure. For example a traveling post should have place of interest and schedule whereby software review don’t have.
I am just sharing the basic structure that I think should have in a good content. You might amend to suit your need. Total 5 simple elements:
1. Introduction
- Give a rough idea on what the article will discuss
- Mention how public view on the topic
- Ask some question as appetizer to attract reader continue reading
- Ask yourself “What?” and “Why?” of the topic and answer in Intro portion.
2. Main Point
- Keep your clear, short and easy to understand. Put in point form if possible. But not suitable for life blog.
3. Supporting Point
- Provide additional point to support main points.
- Ask yourself “How” and “Where” of the main points and provide answer.
4. Conclusion
- Conclude your points and give your own opinion on the topic to make it more interesting.
- Explain how these points related to readers, and how they can use the point in real life.
5. Bonus point or Tip for reader
- Keep some bonus tips for this portion, so that your reader will read through your whole article. Not read half way then exit.
My two cents
I like the KISS principle (thanks to LcF). I hate to read long grandmother story without organize their content. So, remember the principle in every sentence!
Do you think we can write good article with these basic structure? Or you have come other suggestions?
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July 8th, 2008 at 2:35 am
I like your simple approach, but I find myself writing the main points down first.
Sometimes the introduction is the last, because I want to make it compelling enough it attracts the readers to read the rest of the post.