Simple Blog Post Formulas

Last blog post we talked about deciding on topics to write throughout the year. Now we are going to discuss formulas that we can use for approaching individual blog posts.

The First is to problem solve and application.

Here is how it is done.
State problem, Use vivid, impactful language to get the reader’s attention so that they will stay on your post for five minutes.
Solution and Application: give 3-5 practical ideas or tips to solve their problem. Offer an action step to get them started.

Another is: Why What, How, Tools

First you want to ask why. This is your emotional appeal. It focuses on your reader’s needs not yours, tells why if they don’t do it, what will happen. Provide an emotional support.
Next is the What. Tell your reader why this is important to them, show evidence, methodology, experiences that inform your perspective. This is for left-brained thinkers who are not easily swayed by emotional appeals.
Finally, tell How: Give 3-5 practical steps to help them solve their problem. Make these steps easy to implement

A Third is the Interview or Pop Culture Mashup

Spotlight a star or celebrity as this person relates to your topic. Introduce star, connect star to your topic. Focus on your inspiration based on this connection and make certain that the reader gets it as well.

Number four: Focus on the Villain

An alternative to the Pop Culture Mashup is Focus on a Villain-talk about trigger of this villain, how did this thing (not person) become a villain? Describe the villain, point finger at the concept, idea, or position. Contrast villain’s view with your own.

Finally: The List

Tried and true list of things that work. This is probably the easiest type of post to write. We writers are bored with them, but readers still love them!-state the problem, list the solutions, include title, brief commentary, and a link or downloadable view.
See how many of these types of blog posts that I use during this upcoming year.

Donna Brown is pastor at Faith in God Church in Brandsville, Missouri.  As Author Cygnet Brown, she  has recently published her first nonfiction book: Simply Vegetable Gardening: Simple Organic Gardening Tips for the Beginning Gardener

She is also the author of historical fiction series The Locket Saga. which includes When God Turned His Head and Soldiers Don’t Cry, the Locket Saga Continues, and most recently, A Coward’s Solace, Book III of the Locket Saga.For more information about Cygnet Brown and her book, check out her website at http://www.cygnetbrow.com .