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10 Themes to Absolutely Explore in Your Next Memoir

by with No Comment GhostwritingMemoirs and Autobiographies

A memoir is a form of writing that tells a personal story, usually focusing on a specific period or experience in the author’s life. Unlike autobiographies which spotlight a person’s life story from birth till a particular point in history, memoirs are more time and event bound.

Through vivid descriptions, personal anecdotes, and heartfelt reflections, with memoirs, the author invites the reader along on their journey of self-discovery, allowing a glimpse into their past, struggles, and a new understanding.

Memoir writing helps the author to share their unique perspective, thoughts, and emotions with readers while creating a sense of intimacy between the reader and author.

We all want to feel connected!

I read Will Smith’s ‘Will’ the other day, and was instantly drawn into the world he’d created and lived. Seeing through his eyes, as he painted his successes and failures, made me see how different, yet alike we all are at the end of the day. A delve into Michelle Obama’s memoir, Becoming, as she tells her story as well as her family’s pre and post White House experience was particularly inspiring, yet personal.

There is a certain power in personal storytelling that cannot be found anywhere else. Who doesn’t enjoy a good tale?

In my memoir, The Girl in the Mirror: How 2020 Became the Year of My Grand Shift, I wrote about the 2020 pandemic phenomenon, the events happening in society, like the Black Lives Matter protests in the USA, as well as the END SARS protests in Nigeria. Pulling from these incidents, I was able to draw a concrete connection between what was happening, and the events in my life.

A good memoir can be therapeutic as it often seeks to explore identity and shape cultural and social narratives. As such, it is important to maintain a great degree of accuracy and authenticity when writing one.

No one can tell your story as well as you can, as they would need to get into the same shoes as you—which may not be possible. If you would like to explore who you are, however, you definitely should consider writing a memoir. I can tell you for free that it changed my perspective on life.

Although writing a memoir can be uncomfortable, as you would need to meet different versions of yourself, it is helpful to face these emotions so you can own who you truly are and move on to who you’d like to be.

Memoirs often take different forms and can cover a vast range of topics, from personal tragedy and triumph to travel and adventure.

Here are 10 themes to explore in your next memoir.

Coming of age. One of the chapters in my memoir, ‘To My Sixteen-Year-Old Self’ captures this in brief. You could explore the experiences and challenges of growing up and finding your place in the world. 18 to 21-year-olds often have some stuff going on with them and it could be really helpful to share your experience, so they can successfully navigate theirs.

Family dynamics. Family can be complex and is often the source of who we become as adults—”good” or “bad.” You may want to examine the joys, conflicts, and complexities of relationships with family members, both biological and chosen. This can help you to find peace in some form, or even, acceptance.

Career Trajectory. Work is an essential part of our lives as humans. You can detail the ups and downs of a particular career path(s), including challenges you faced, successes, as well as personal growth. Sharing this in a memoir could help readers invested in that career path make informed choices.

Love and relationships. Oh yeah, we all love to love. Reflecting on romantic relationships and their impact on your personal growth and development is a guaranteed winner. You may decide to share what you’ve been through, and who you are now as a result of your relationship choices.

Travel and adventure. Are you a sucker for adventure? Do you like to travel the world and discover exotic places and people? A travel memoir may just be right for you. Sharing your tales of exploration and adventure, both close to home and around the world, can help your readers pick out their next fun place to go. Or not.

Personal tragedy. Maya Angelou’s I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings tells a tale of trauma, and racism as well as the path to finding her voice. Tragedy is a universal event and some experience it more than others. No manual to it—just the way life works. Detailing the impact of a traumatic event, such as the loss of a loved one, can help in the process of healing and recovery.

Mental health. In 2020, I struggled with depression. I’d had it coming for some time, but the solitary confinement brought about by the pandemic only made it worse. Writing a memoir helped me explore personal struggles with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. At the end of the day, I was a whole new being—having undergone the self-therapy I didn’t know I needed. It could do the same for you too.

Identity. You could examine how your identity has been shaped and transformed, whether through race, gender, or other factors. If you don’t even know who you are, how can you be who you are supposed to be?

Politics and activism. Olusegun Obasanjo’s My Watch details in 3 sequences, his personal experiences in the public eye, the country he’s known and loved, as well as the politics thereof. You could write a memoir that curates political movements or social justice causes, and the impact of activism on your personal growth. We could definitely use more of those.

Spiritual or philosophical exploration. In the search for meaning, we often travel far and wide, in our minds and also to physical places. You could write a memoir that explores your purpose, spirituality, and the impact of personal beliefs on your life experiences.

Regardless of the specific focus, what makes a memoir truly fascinating is the author’s ability to craft a story that not only entertains but also enlightens and inspires.

When done right, a memoir can be a deeply moving and transformative experience for both the author and the reader.

Ready to get started on your memoir? 

 

 

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The Write Way: The Ultimate Guide for Self-Help Authors

by with No Comment Ghostwriting

I’d just arrived at a paint-and-sip event when I saw her. I’ll call her Jay. Her beauty and authenticity radiated so much that the whole room seemed to float around her.

Later that evening, as we oohed and ahhed over the ship the art instructor just taught us to paint, we struck an easy conversation.

Jay was a mobile nurse who often traveled around the world. She’d seen diverse cultures and exotic places and had explored tropical dishes. She quietly expressed a desire to share not just with her travel vlog, but to one day write an ebook detailing her experiences, highlighting cities worth going to or not.

With a grin, I pulled out my business card and introduced myself as a ghostwriter. I explained that I could help put her stories together in the form of a self-help book and attain her author goals.

As the evening went on, she fell more in love with the idea. She admitted that she was not much of a writer and that now was as good a time as any to begin. The night ended with a high note and we promised to keep in touch.

Over the next couple of weeks, I listened carefully as she shared her ideas and stories with me, while taking copious notes. I then went through hours of her vlog as I tried to put a finger on her voice and unique style.

As I began to work on the book, however, I soon realized that there was a slight hitch. Jay’s original theme and message were not as clear and cohesive as she had initially thought, and I could tell that the book needed a more focused direction.

Naturally, I broached the subject with her, but she was resistant to the idea of altering her original plan. Despite the tension, I knew that it was important to continue the conversation and work through the issues.

I took the time to carefully explain the potential benefits of refocusing the book, infusing her life as a nurse. Nursing was her first love, and it had impacted the way she experienced her trips. Gradually, Jay began to see my point of view.

As we worked together to fine-tune the theme and direction of the book, there were moments of frustration and even tears as she struggled to let go of her original vision.

In the end, however, the book turned out to be a powerful and impactful piece of work that truly reflected her unique insights and experiences. She was grateful for my dedication and expertise and noted that without my help, her travel book may not have been possible.

Self-help books are like cheat codes for life. They’re books that give you advice on how to improve yourself, whether it’s in your personal life, your career, your relationships, or your health. Or just like Jay’s book, they can show you ‘how to’ adapt when you find yourself in odd places, just like Jonah in the whale’s belly. Hehe.

Self-help books are basically like having that wise and experienced friend who can give you a kick in the butt when you need it.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

But here’s the thing: not all self-help books are created equal. Some are actually helpful, while others are about as useful as a chocolate teapot.

Now, if you’re thinking of writing a self-help book, here are some best practices to keep in mind:

First, structure is key. You want to make sure your book has a clear and logical flow so that readers can easily follow your advice and apply it to their lives. This may mean breaking your book down into chapters and sections, and using headings and subheadings to make it easy to navigate.

Second, you need to have a clear message. What’s the crux of your argument? Why does it matter? If you can’t answer these questions, then your book is going to be about as focused as a toddler on a sugar high.

But don’t stop there! Once you’ve figured out your message, you need to make sure you’re engaging your reader. After all, if your book is as dry as a slice of toast, no one’s going to want to read it. So, you’ll need to infuse anecdotes, humor, and personal stories to connect with your readers and keep them invested.

Finally, remember that self-help books are ultimately about helping people. So, you should make sure your advice is practical, actionable, and based on real-world experience. Don’t just spout platitudes or give generic advice that anyone could come up with. Give your readers something they can actually use to improve their lives.

And just like Jay, you can decide to write your book with me.

Now, you might be thinking, “Why should I choose you over anyone else?” Well, my friend, I’m not just any ghostwriter.

As an experienced ghostwriter, I understand that each client is unique and comes with their own set of expectations and communication styles. And so, I meander through any challenges, as we work together to create a book that perfectly meets your goals.

My process

First, I’ll have an initial consultation with you to determine your goals, vision, and voice for the book.

Next, I’ll draw up a contract to establish clear communication channels, timelines, and expectations for both parties, including payment and pricing structure.

Because the reader is an important part of the process, I’ll research the topic and audience thoroughly to understand their needs and interests. Then with you, I’ll establish a clear structure and outline for the book, including chapter titles, key themes, and messaging.

We’ll have regular interviews to get a deeper understanding of your experience and insights, and why it matters in a particular scene or chapter.

A first draft of the manuscript will then be written, alongside regular updates and opportunities for feedback throughout the writing process to ensure you are satisfied with the direction and tone of the book.

Now, you may have reservations, comments, or suggestions about the manuscript. That’s okay, after all, it’s your book. Together, we’ll work on improving the flow, organization, additional information, and overall impact as it would matter to your reader.

After this, the manuscript would be sent to the beta readers, to critique and assess whether the book adequately passes the intended message. When their feedback comes through, necessary adjustments will be made and it would then be sent to an editor to work on.

Lastly, I will proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors before putting together the final draft.

Of course, you don’t want to author a book that’s just lying there with no one to read, so we’ll discuss from the beginning, the publishing platform that works for you. Whether you want to self-publish or go through the traditional publishing route, we’ll work towards your goals and budget.

Throughout the publishing and promotion process, I’ll offer some support and guidance. We could also discuss a marketing plan that leverages social media, email marketing, book reviews, and other promotional tools to reach your target audience. This would usually be add-ons.

Authoring a self-help book is a great experience to have, as you get to share your knowledge with others and make a difference in their lives.

Ready to hit the write way? Get in touch.

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Bringing Your Memoir to Life: The Ghostwriting Process

by with No Comment GhostwritingMemoirs and Autobiographies

Ghostwriting is the process of writing a book, speech, article, or any other piece of content on behalf of someone else, without taking any credit for it.

Now, when it comes to memoirs, ghostwriting takes on a particularly interesting role. A memoir is a first-person account of someone’s life experiences, often told in a narrative form. It’s a deeply personal and intimate genre that requires the author to share their most vulnerable moments, their triumphs, and their struggles. But not everyone who wants to write a memoir has the time, skills, or inclination to do so. This is the ghostwriter’s turf.

A memoir ghostwriter works closely with the author to capture their voice, perspective, and story. The ghostwriter will conduct extensive interviews with the author to understand their life experiences, their motivations, and their unique perspective. From there, the ghostwriter will take the raw material and craft it into a compelling narrative that adequately captures the essence of the author’s life.

One of the most important things a memoir ghostwriter must do is maintain the author’s voice. The goal is not to create a sanitized, sanitized version of the author’s life, but rather to accentuate their personality. A skilled ghostwriter will be able to navigate the author’s idiosyncrasies and quirks, their unique way of speaking and thinking, and use these elements to create a rich and authentic narrative.

Of course, ghostwriting isn’t without its controversies. Some people believe that a memoir should only be written by the person who lived it, and that ghostwriting is a form of deception. Others argue that ghostwriting is a legitimate way for people to tell their stories, particularly if they lack the time or skills to write a book themselves.

Here are some reasons you should hire a memoir ghostwriter.

First and foremost, let’s talk about time. Writing a memoir is a BIG project. It takes a lot of time and energy to sit and put all your memories and experiences into words. And let’s be real, most of us have busy lives with jobs, families, and all sorts of other obligations that can make it tough to find the time to write a book. That’s where a ghostwriter comes in – we can take on the heavy lifting and let you focus on living your life.

But it’s not just about time, there’s also the matter of skill. Writing is a craft, and not everyone is comfortable with it. Maybe you’re an incredible storyteller, but when it comes to putting those stories on paper, you freeze up.

Or perhaps you’re a fantastic writer, but the idea of writing about your own life feels too personal or overwhelming. That’s where a ghostwriter can really shine. We have the skills and experience to take your story and turn it into a book that you can be proud of.

And let’s not forget about perspective. Sometimes when you’re too close to a story, it can be hard to see the forest for the trees. A ghostwriter can bring a fresh perspective to your story, helping you to see things in a new light and find the themes and threads that tie everything together. Plus, we’re not emotionally invested in your story in the same way that you are, which means we can approach it with a bit more objectivity.

Of course, hiring a ghostwriter isn’t for everyone. Some people enjoy the process of writing and want to do it all themselves. And that’s great! But if you’re someone who feels like they could use a little help, a ghostwriter can be an invaluable resource. We help tell your story in a way that’s compelling, authentic, and true to who you are.

My Process

When you hire me, you’re not just getting a writer – you’re getting a soul therapist too. I’ll lovingly guide you through the process of reaching into the stories you really need to tell. Even if you falter, I’ll be there with you every step of the way.

Now, when it comes to actually writing the book, the process can vary from person to person. For some folks, I’ll start with a series of interviews to get a sense of their stories and voices. We’ll chat about life experiences, values, and the themes that you want to explore in your memoir. From there, I’ll use those conversations to start crafting the narrative of your book.

For others, we might start with a rough draft or a series of notes, videos, blog posts, etc, that you’ve already put together. I’ll take that material and use it as a jumping-off point to start building your story. We’ll work together to flesh out your ideas and find the throughline that ties everything together.

Once we’ve got a solid draft in place, we’ll go through a series of revisions to make sure that everything is just right. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to give feedback and make changes along the way. My goal is always to make sure that the final product is a reflection of your voice, your story, and your unique perspective.

Hey.

Life is full of amazing experiences, both good and bad. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had your fair share of them. Writing a memoir is like bottling up those experiences and sharing them with the world.

Think about it: when you’re old and grey and sitting in your rocking chair, wouldn’t it be nice to have a book full of your memories to look back on? Plus, you never know who your story might inspire or help. Maybe your struggles and triumphs will give someone else the strength to persevere through their challenges.

I know what you’re probably thinking – “I’m not a famous celebrity, why would anyone want to read my memoir?” Here’s the thing – your story is unique and valuable simply because it’s yours. Everyone has a story to tell, and yours is just as worthy of being heard as anyone else’s.

There’s something quite cathartic about chronicling one’s life story in a memoir. It allows you to reflect, make sense of your experiences, and maybe even find closure on certain events.

So, if you’re still on the fence about writing a memoir, I say go for it! Your story deserves to be shared, and who knows, it might even change someone’s life. Plus, it’ll give you something to do in your retirement besides yelling at the grandkids to get off your lawn.

Ready to share your unique story with the world?

Write with me.

A black woman sitting at a desk and smiling. She holds a pen in her hand and is writing in a book

The Secret to Success? Letting Someone Else Write Your Business Book

by with No Comment Ghostwriting

Well, well, well, it seems like you’ve stumbled upon the ghostwriting topic. Don’t be scared, though. Ghostwriting is not about spooky apparitions. It’s simply about making your life a little less haunted (winks).

Imagine you are a busy business owner, juggling endless tasks, meetings, and responsibilities. You have a brilliant idea for a book, but who has time to sit down and write it? This is where a skilled ghostwriter steps in! 

A ghostwriter is like a literary ninja who can take your thoughts and ideas and transform them into a polished, well-written book that you can call your own.

Ghostwriting is particularly helpful for business owners who want to write a book but don’t have the time or expertise to do it themselves. Just like hiring a personal trainer to help you achieve your fitness goals, the ghostwriter is your writing coach, guiding you through the process as you achieve your literary dreams.

But why bother with a book in the first place? 

A man. He isn't looking at the camera. He has a look that says 'why are you bothering me?'

Well, my friend, a book is a powerful tool for establishing credibility, building a personal brand, and generating leads. It’s like a business card on steroids. 

A well-written book can position you as an expert in your field, as people are more likely to trust and do business with folks who can show they really know what they’re doing.

Plus, in today’s digital age, authoring a book gives you a competitive edge. It can be used as a marketing tool, shared on social media, and used to create valuable content for your website or blog. Not to mention, it’s a great way to leave a legacy and share your knowledge with the world.

And with a ghostwriter, you can achieve your author goals without sacrificing all your time and sanity. 

My Ghostwriting Process

First, we start with a little tango called “getting to know you.” I’ll ask you questions about your business, your brand, your goals, your dreams, your fears, your favorite pizza topping… you get the picture. The more I know about you, the better I can capture your voice and vision for your book.

Next up, we have the waltz of outlining. Together, we’ll map out the structure of the book, chapter by chapter. This is where we figure out the main themes, the key points, and the overall arc to be explored in your book. It’s like building a roadmap to success, with me as your trusty navigator.

Now comes the fun part: the rumba of writing. This is where I put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and start crafting the words that will make your book shine. But not to worry, I won’t go rogue and write a book that sounds nothing like you. I’m like a chameleon, adapting my writing style to match yours, so the final product truly feels like it came straight from your own brilliant mind.

But we’re not done yet! 

The ghostwriting process is all about collaboration, so we’ll have plenty of opportunities to tango back and forth, getting your feedback and making revisions along the way. This is where you put your stamp on the book and make sure everything is exactly where you want it to be.

Finally, we end with a triumphant flourish, the cha-cha of finishing touches. We’ll polish the manuscript until it sparkles, ensuring that every word is in its proper place and every comma perfectly placed. And just like that, we’ll have a beautiful, well-written book that showcases your expertise and your unique voice.

Why you should work with me.

With over three years of experience ghostwriting, I’ve developed the knack for writing books that are not only informative but also compelling. I capture your reader’s attention and keep them engaged from cover to cover. 

If you want a book that will have your readers turning pages faster than they can say “profit margins,” I’m your girl!

Lami smiling at the camera

But that’s not all. 

I’m not just a writer, I’m a strategy consultant and chartered accountant. I understand the art and science of business and persuasion. And I present ideas in a way that’s not only convincing but also practical and delivers great results.

Let’s be honest…

It’s natural to feel hesitant about hiring a ghostwriter. You’ve worked hard to build your brand and your message, and you don’t want to lose control over it any more than you want to lose control over your morning coffee. And if we’re keeping it a buck, hiring a ghostwriter can be expensive, like trying to buy a yacht on a shoestring budget.

But here’s the thing: as a skilled ghostwriter, I understand those concerns. I know that your message is your baby, and I’ll treat it with the care and respect it deserves. 

My goal is to work with you to ensure that your message shines through every word of the book we create together. And as for the cost, I’m not here to break your bank. Together, we’ll find a solution that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Now…

When it comes to ghostwriting, some business owners worry that their ideas might be leaked, their brand might be compromised, or worse, their competitors might steal their thunder. 

But rest assured, the ghostwriting process is as confidential as a CIA operation. Your ideas are safe with me, and I’ll work tirelessly to ensure that your brand and message are not only preserved but elevated.

Authoring a book is one of the best ways to build credibility and establish your brand. A well-written book can position you as an expert in your field, expand your reach, and help you connect with your target audience in a meaningful way. 

And who doesn’t want that, right?

I offer a free 15 minute discovery call where we can discuss the theme of your book and how it may benefit your brand. There’s no obligation, no pressure, just a friendly conversation between two people who are passionate about making a difference. 

So what are you waiting for? Let’s connect over coffee and make your author dream a reality.

10 reasons to tell

1O Reasons Why We Should Tell Our Stories

by with No Comment Ghostwriting

Our lives are enriched by the stories we tell and hear. And just like the treacherous crumbs that led Hansel and his sister, Gretel, to the witch’s cottage in the fairy tale, stories highlight our path from the end to the beginning.

From the dawn of time, we have been taught many things, in our religion, culture, and beliefs. Those ideas are often transmitted in the form of stories and mostly turn out to be the values we live by.

Without proper storytelling, the past, present, and future will not converge. A connection between what is, what was, and what is to come will not exist.

As humans, we rely on stories to assign meaning to situations and that’s why psychologists often emphasize the importance of telling ourselves the stories that really matter.

If for instance, you believe a person hates you and is out to get you for some reason, it’s a story you’ve told yourself and come to accept. The outcome of your experience then depends on how events unfold or how you choose to interact with the said individual.

If you tell yourself a story of vigor and thriving, articulating how you plan to surmount life’s challenges, chances are there that you’d somehow get through.

Here are the reasons we have to tell our stories. Some would definitely resonate with you.
  1. Stories help to preserve the past, reminding us of our humanity. Our memories aren’t that trustworthy—so it’s best is put them down, in writing or with other mediums. From the beginning of time, humans have told stories in different forms like hieroglyphics, symbols, war chants, tattoos, tribal marks, etc. Our stories help us distinctly identify who we are and what we stand for. It’s quite amazing how much you can learn about a group of people from the kinds of markings they have on their bodies and the stories they hold dear.

 

  1. Stories show our growth or lack of it. Just like earlier stated, the stories we tell ourselves help us determine where we currently are in our life’s journey. A deadbeat father for instance, who decides to up and leave his wife and kids for some reason, is driven by a story he tells himself. If later down the line, he opts to reconcile with his family, it’s up to him and the story he chooses to believe.

 

  1. Stories help us understand who we are, the road we’ve taken to where we are, and where we could be. Books, art pieces, movies, and other literary forms have been used for centuries to highlight the starting point of journeys. Take John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, for instance. It tells a compelling story of a man who literally goes through hell, trying to find himself. And it’s a hero’s journey that has continued to resonate with many from time till now.

 

  1. They help us observe similarities between our lives and that of others. I have very often come across social media posts that highlight how similar we are as humans. Someone makes a TikTok about some weird ritual they do at home on family day and you get a thousand and one comments, saying, ‘this is so me.’ Stories help us see how though different we are, under a particular circumstance, we are more likely than not to act in similar ways. We all eat the same, breathe the same, and die the same. Hehe.

 

  1. Stories are often told with different mediums. Music, poetry, books, pictures, video games, comics, etc, all have the same soul—a character, a situation, and a subject matter. When we tell our stories through the medium we feel the most connected to, we can reach an audience that can relate, and thus, impact their lives in one way or another.

 

  1. Stories help us relieve ourselves from the pressure and pain of our past, perhaps seeing with more clarity and understanding why we did certain things in a certain way at a point in our lives. My memoir, The Girl in The Mirror: How 2020 Became The Year of My Grand Shift, was one such. Penning down my experiences and what my expectations were, helped me identify who I was and who I wanted to be. Good storytelling helps to transform, transcend, and metamorphose the storyteller as well as the reader or listener.

 

  1. We write stories to find meaning. Sometimes life comes at us so fast and we are wondering who we are, but good stories help to centre us. Grant Snider, an American writer, and cartoonist points out 9 things that make a great novelist. He starts with childhood trauma, a big one, eh? He then goes on to highlight a miserable job, a moment of self-discovery, a loyal pet, pathological ambition, an episode of debauchery, a neglected spouse, personal demons, and years of boring hard work as other catalysts. I couldn’t agree more, honestly. I really did begin to see the light when I began telling my stories.

 

  1. Stories help to shine a light on perceptions—the bedrock of humanity’s decisions. Two people are faced with a similar circumstance and they choose to act differently. You begin to wonder, why this choice and not that? The healing potential of storytelling cannot be overemphasized.

 

  1. We learn the context of worry, hate, anxiety, and the art of persuasion through stories. Someone once said fear is learned and hate is taught. We observe something that our mama does, or the stories our grandpa tells us about some taboo or some bad people and we internalize it. Storytelling helps to ensure that some behavior stays perpetuated, and in other cases, becomes resolved.

 

  1. Stories, case in point the bible, are written for our examples. We can observe the good, the bad, and the ugly and see how and why certain characters made certain choices. I often advise not swallowing stories whole, but taking the time to sift through the pile, identifying what is logical, intuitive, and empowering, and then choosing what could transform us into better versions of ourselves.

Have you got a story in your gut to tell? Ready to find the release that comes through telling your personal stories? I’d like to help you write that story.

Click here to start on your authorship journey.

 

 

the importance of well resea

The Importance of a Well-Researched Article

by with No Comment Ghostwriting

We all have subject matters that we’re passionate about and this sometimes leads us to research and pen them in forms like articles!

What is an article?

An article is a written piece of content intended for publication in a newspaper, magazine, website, or other media. They typically provide relevant information, analysis, opinion, or commentary on a particular topic, event, or issue. Articles can be short or lengthy and may range in style from informative and educational to persuasive and argumentative.

Articles are often written by journalists, experts, scholars, or enthusiasts in a particular field and are usually subject to editorial review and fact-checking before publication. They usually cover a wide variety of subjects, including news, politics, business, entertainment, sports, science, technology, and more.

To write a great article, you should take note of the following.
  1. Attention. Grab the reader’s attention with a strong opening. You could start your article with a catchy headline or a powerful opening sentence that draws your reader in and makes them want to keep reading. Expressive language and descriptive details are very helpful. Use language that paints a vivid picture in the reader’s mind and helps them visualize the topic you’re writing about.

These days, attention spans are short, so it’s best your article is concise and to the point. Cut out any information that does not add value to the plot. Address your reader directly with the use of second-person pronouns like “you, or your” to make them feel like you’re speaking directly to them.

Use storytelling techniques such as anecdotes, personal experiences, or case studies to illustrate your points and make the article more relatable. You could use subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists to break up the text, making it more visually appealing.

You could also ask rhetorical questions throughout the article to keep the reader engaged and encourage them to think about the topic. By using all these techniques, you can capture and hold the reader’s attention, making your article more engaging and memorable.

  1. Interest. Choose a compelling topic that is relevant, timely, and thought-provoking to your target audience. Consider the impact of current events in the news, and how they relate to the issues of most importance to your readers. Offer new insights, data, or research that they may not have seen before. Share your expertise and offer unique perspectives on the topic.

You could also use real-life examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points and make the topic more relatable to the reader. This can help them wear the shoes, and see how relevant the topic is to their lives. Incorporate visuals like images, infographics, and videos to help break up the text and make the article more visually appealing. This will make the reader stay engaged and interested in the topic.

Write in a conversational tone that is easy to follow and engages the reader. Also, avoid using overly technical language or jargon that may turn the reader off.

  1. Desire. Understand what your target audience wants and needs, and tailor your article to address those desires. No one wants to read through a 5000-word article that doesn’t add any value to them. I sure don’t! Use emotional language and storytelling to create a sense of desire or urgency in the reader. This can help motivate them to take a specific action or seek out more information on the topic.

With your words, provide practical solutions or advice that can help your reader achieve their goals or overcome their challenges. This could help create a sense of desire and move them to take action and implement your recommendations.

Offer incentives such as discounts, free resources, or exclusive access to additional content to encourage the reader to take action or learn more about the topic. Everyone loves to taste that cherry on top. Use testimonials, case studies, or statistics to provide social proof that your recommendations are effective and can help your reader achieve their desired outcome.

  1. Action. Lastly, a clear-cut call to action. You want your reader to do at least one thing when they’ve read your article; perhaps a change of lifestyle, or a trip to the moon. Be clear and specific. Use clear language in your call to action to make it easy for the reader to understand what action you want them to take.

You should also use punch words that create a sense of urgency to motivate the reader to take immediate action. For example, use phrases like “donate now” or “limited-time offer.” Ensure that your call to action is relevant to the article and the reader. The action should be related to the topic of the article and provide value to the reader.

Offer multiple options for your reader to take action. For example, you could provide a link to a related article, ask them to sign up for a newsletter, or suggest a product or service that can help them. After the reader takes this action, follow up with additional information or resources to reinforce the value of the action they took.

Your article should create a form of bond between you and your reader. It must also highlight your knowledge and expertise. If there’s no value added by your piece, you run a risk of having your readers become bored halfway through.

With your article, you want to be the go-to person for information in your field. As such, your article must be properly researched and should include backlinks as well as references to other thought processes.

Avoid plagiarism. In Austin Kleon’s Steal Like An Artist, the importance of not copying from one single source is explored. You could argue that no idea is new, and you would be right. It however depends on how you choose to tell your story.

As much as you can, distribute your article in different places because the more eyes see it, the better the chances of actualizing your call to action.

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