You’ve just set up the framework for your first website and you’re really pleased with what you’ve achieved. But then there’s a problem. You have to actually fill it with content! Now for some people that’s great and they just can’t wait to get started, but for others it’s a chore because they’re convinced that they can’t write and they’ll never be able to find enough things to say. Believe me we’ve all been there. But help is at hand and here are 6 article writing tips for newbies.

Cut the negative self talk

If you’re going to be building your own website and filling it with quality content for your visitors one, if you’re concerned about your writing one of the first things you need to do is cut out the negative self-talk. Too often I hear people say 'I can’t write'. Keep saying that to yourself and it will turn into a self-fulfilling prophecy. You can write. You may want to improve your writing skills but that will come with practice and time.

Great writers read a lot

If you’re going to be doing a lot of writing it also helps if you’re doing a lot of reading. In my view it doesn’t matter what you read, magazines, newspapers, biographies, fictions, non- fiction, periodicals ... Reading not only helps expand your vocabulary but it also makes you aware of different writing techniques that writers use.

Write using your own voice

Although it’s important to look at what other people are writing and learn from the things they do, it’s still important to write using your own voice. I admire people who write in short sentences and in a very punchy style, but it’s not something that I try and emulate, because it’s not my natural style. To be true to many of the things I write about such as self confidence and self esteem and to be authentic I need to write in the style that I’m comfortable with.

Write regularly

If youre going to have a successful blog or website, it's important that you get into the habit of writing articles regularly as the more you write, the more you will find your ideas flowing and the quicker you will be able to produce articles. Try and write every day.

Use writing exercises when stuck

This isn’t supposed to be an onerous tip but if you’re struggling to write then doing some fun writing exercises can stimulate creative writing. For example – try listening to the news and writing a summary in 150 words. Pick your favourite website and write a review in 100 words. You may be thinking that you don’t have the time to waste on things unrelated to your website. However, if you’re getting stuck, taking a break and just writing about anything can really make a difference.

Don’t edit while creating

When you’re new to article writing it can be very tempting to try and edit your work at the same time as trying to create it. However, this will considerably slow up your process and you will be in danger of confusing yourself. Write your first draft and then edit. Put it aside for a couple of hours or even a day, edit for the final time and then publish.

Summary

These are just 6 articles writing tips – there are many more that you can follow. However, the most important thing is to get writing. Believe in yourself, make sure that you write regularly and write using your authentic voice and most importantly tell yourself “I CAN WRITE”