+

Columns and blogs

Advice for the beginning enthusiast

Martin Hirst

httpethicalmartiniwordpresscom

+Columns and blogs same beast different spots

Appear in print

A formality of language

Can have a variety of purpose

Can vary in tone and voice

Is stand-alone

Is text and still images or graphics

Is ephemeral

Published online

More personal language

Can have a variety of purpose

Can vary in tone and voice

Can link to other content

Can have multimedia content embedded

Has longevity

Columns Blogs

+The purpose and the point

To convey the writerrsquos opinionTo offer a fresh perspective on the

news of the dayTo argue a point and convince readersTo challenge accepted wisdomTo amuse andor entertain

the readerTo validate the writerrsquos

point of viewTo validate the readerrsquos

point of view

+Never be boring

In all cases there is one cardinal sin being boring

The columnist must have something to say and appealing style that captures the reader and demands a reactionhellip

Everyone has one column maybe six in them

But column writing week in and week out let alone at more regular intervals is demanding professional work

[Al Morison Intro p 309]

+Types of columns

Opinion piece a regular spot in the publication for commentaries on the issues of the day

The journalistic column the accent is on news and analysis colour background and context

Personal viewpoints and opinions that donrsquot always or necessarily relate to news or topics of the day

Gossip amusing insights about public figures or snippets from the social diary

+The opinion column

A regular spot ndash usually in a newspaper

Focus on news agenda ndash informed commentary

Express a strong point-of-view

Some are regular Finlay McDonald Michael Laws

Guest spots ndash notable individuals Academics politicians experts

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+The purpose and the point

To convey the writerrsquos opinionTo offer a fresh perspective on the

news of the dayTo argue a point and convince readersTo challenge accepted wisdomTo amuse andor entertain

the readerTo validate the writerrsquos

point of viewTo validate the readerrsquos

point of view

+Never be boring

In all cases there is one cardinal sin being boring

The columnist must have something to say and appealing style that captures the reader and demands a reactionhellip

Everyone has one column maybe six in them

But column writing week in and week out let alone at more regular intervals is demanding professional work

[Al Morison Intro p 309]

+Types of columns

Opinion piece a regular spot in the publication for commentaries on the issues of the day

The journalistic column the accent is on news and analysis colour background and context

Personal viewpoints and opinions that donrsquot always or necessarily relate to news or topics of the day

Gossip amusing insights about public figures or snippets from the social diary

+The opinion column

A regular spot ndash usually in a newspaper

Focus on news agenda ndash informed commentary

Express a strong point-of-view

Some are regular Finlay McDonald Michael Laws

Guest spots ndash notable individuals Academics politicians experts

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Never be boring

In all cases there is one cardinal sin being boring

The columnist must have something to say and appealing style that captures the reader and demands a reactionhellip

Everyone has one column maybe six in them

But column writing week in and week out let alone at more regular intervals is demanding professional work

[Al Morison Intro p 309]

+Types of columns

Opinion piece a regular spot in the publication for commentaries on the issues of the day

The journalistic column the accent is on news and analysis colour background and context

Personal viewpoints and opinions that donrsquot always or necessarily relate to news or topics of the day

Gossip amusing insights about public figures or snippets from the social diary

+The opinion column

A regular spot ndash usually in a newspaper

Focus on news agenda ndash informed commentary

Express a strong point-of-view

Some are regular Finlay McDonald Michael Laws

Guest spots ndash notable individuals Academics politicians experts

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Types of columns

Opinion piece a regular spot in the publication for commentaries on the issues of the day

The journalistic column the accent is on news and analysis colour background and context

Personal viewpoints and opinions that donrsquot always or necessarily relate to news or topics of the day

Gossip amusing insights about public figures or snippets from the social diary

+The opinion column

A regular spot ndash usually in a newspaper

Focus on news agenda ndash informed commentary

Express a strong point-of-view

Some are regular Finlay McDonald Michael Laws

Guest spots ndash notable individuals Academics politicians experts

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+The opinion column

A regular spot ndash usually in a newspaper

Focus on news agenda ndash informed commentary

Express a strong point-of-view

Some are regular Finlay McDonald Michael Laws

Guest spots ndash notable individuals Academics politicians experts

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Journalistic column

Typically weekly

Often about key issues of the day

Senior reporter

Makes a point about actions of central figure in the news

Less formal style than news

Establishes reporterrsquos credibility over time

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Personal column

Personal columns have a wide range of topics

Wine food family children sport film theatre television

Review-style columns are common

Rely on a particular ldquodevicerdquo for effect

Often attempt to be humorous

IMHO this genre is overdone and most of the time lazy

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Think it through

Find a topic(current events culturalsocialpolitical lsquohappeningsrsquo topical controversies wry observation of the lsquohuman conditionrsquo)

Use your voice(obviously active but what elsehellip)

Use your imagination(devices to add interest humour quotes anecdotes and personal experiences DONrsquoT OVER DO IT)

Invite readers in(art of conversation)

Write for yourself(If yoursquore not interested and excited why should we care)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+How do you write a column

Start with an idea ndash a point you want to make Gather the facts

Outline a structure ndash develop a plan Which bit of the story will you start with Do you want to make a dramatic entrance Can you capture the reader with humour or shock-value

The opening par must have a good lsquohookrsquo

Know where you want to go ndash define your end point The conclusion is as important as the lead

Remember itrsquos not the inverted pyramid Hour-glass structure or more narrative style is acceptable

Use lively and entertaining language ndash but use it well

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Choosing a topic

A column or blog can be about practically anything

Select something that you are knowledgeable aboutor willing to learn about

Be prepared to do some research ndash facts are important to back your opinions

If you have a passion or special interest ndash how can you make it relevant and exciting

Establish your personality early on

Pick something thatrsquosfun for you

Comment is free but facts are sacred

Charles Prestwich Scott editor Manchester

Guardian 1872mdash1929

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Structure

Lead ndash unlike a news story a columnlead can be delayed or less formal

Tell the reader what itrsquos about

Background justificationfor your point

Take the reader someplace else

Explain present your newinformation and insights

Expand on detail

Complete the circle

Finish with a twist

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+What is your lsquovoicersquo

Mode of address First person ldquoIrdquo Second person ldquoYourdquo Third person ldquoSomeone elserdquo

Consistency Mode of address Distance Formal informal

Ethos Logos Pathos Authorrsquos viewpoint Appeal to reason Appeal to emotion

A writers ldquovoicerdquo is what we ldquohearrdquo in our head as we read

This helps us to form a mental image of the writer and their point of view

Our response to the voice also shapes our response to the text

ldquoLikerdquo ldquodislikerdquoldquoAgreerdquo ldquodisagreerdquo

(author reader)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+A sense of style

clarity and correctness of the Strunk and White kind

style as a synonym for flair or verve(colour movement action vocabulary insight)

that which is distinguished and distinguishing about a particular writer

style has a strong unconscious element(but you need to think about it)

expression in subtle deviations from the norm that somehow suit the way you see the world and feel comfortable expressing yourself(Ben Yagoda ndash Poynter interview)

+Blogging for beginners

A blog is a personal diary

A daily pulpit

A collaborative space

A political soapbox

A breaking-news outlet

A collection of links

Your own private thought

Memos to the world(Bloggercom)

NZ journalism students who regularly visit blogs

NZ journalism students who maintain their own blog

Hirst amp Treadwell (2010)

+Getting started

Blogs are not too different from columns

They are slightly easier

Self-published

Good ldquosand pitrdquo to develop writing skills and voicersquo

A social activity with friends or colleagues

Reputation Establish yourself as a

professional

Income Promoting yourself as a

freelancer

Social activity Sharing ideas and opinions

Development Practice your writing and

develop a voice

Blogging is easy and fun What is your blog for

+Ideas and content

Keep a list of ideas ndash make notes on news stories etc like you would in a story notebook

Identify a need ndash do some research

Imagine a reader ndash who are you talking too

Get out of the echo chamber ndash be original

What matters to you ndash express your passion

Be topical ndash timeliness

Donrsquot overload the post with too many ideas

+Writing and linking

Remember the headline is crucial (post title) Controversy and debate Ask a question Key words (nouns verbs) + power words

(adjectivesdescription and emotion) Humour wit quips and puns

Leads and openings ndash think like a journalist Hook Answer your question Tease ndash anecdote etc

Paint a picture Details and facts colour and movement Use lists and examples

+Deepening the reader experience

Use analogy (lsquolikersquo) anecdotes and metaphor

Case studies

Use informed opinion

Discuss different points of view (answer critics)

Add quotes

Do an interview

Add links to relevant content

Illustrate ndash original photos are good

+Exercise your brain

Regular writing exercises improve boththinking capacity and eye-hand coordination

Writing often helps sharpen your focusand establish your voice or point-of-view

Start with things your know about

Read widely and often

Read good writers analyse their styleand structural tricks

Develop an interest or specialitybased on your own passions

Build your expertise

Experiment with different styleson the same piece

• Columns and blogs
• Columns and blogs same beast different spots
• The purpose and the point
• Never be boring
• Types of columns
• The opinion column
• Journalistic column
• Personal column
• Think it through
• How do you write a column
• Choosing a topic
• Structure
• What is your lsquovoicersquo
• A sense of style
• Blogging for beginners
• Getting started
• Ideas and content
• Writing and linking
• Deepening the reader experience
• Exercise your brain

+Ideas and content

Keep a list of ideas ndash make notes on news stories etc like you would in a story notebook

Identify a need ndash do some research

Imagine a reader ndash who are you talking too

Get out of the echo chamber ndash be original

What matters to you ndash express your passion

Be topical ndash timeliness

Donrsquot overload the post with too many ideas

+Writing and linking

Remember the headline is crucial (post title) Controversy and debate Ask a question Key words (nouns verbs) + power words

(adjectivesdescription and emotion) Humour wit quips and puns

Leads and openings ndash think like a journalist Hook Answer your question Tease ndash anecdote etc

Paint a picture Details and facts colour and movement Use lists and examples

+Deepening the reader experience

Use analogy (lsquolikersquo) anecdotes and metaphor

Case studies

Use informed opinion

Discuss different points of view (answer critics)

Add quotes

Do an interview

Add links to relevant content

Illustrate ndash original photos are good

+Exercise your brain

Regular writing exercises improve boththinking capacity and eye-hand coordination

Writing often helps sharpen your focusand establish your voice or point-of-view

Start with things your know about

Read widely and often

Read good writers analyse their styleand structural tricks

Develop an interest or specialitybased on your own passions

Build your expertise

Experiment with different styleson the same piece

• Columns and blogs
• Columns and blogs same beast different spots
• The purpose and the point
• Never be boring
• Types of columns
• The opinion column
• Journalistic column
• Personal column
• Think it through
• How do you write a column
• Choosing a topic
• Structure
• What is your lsquovoicersquo
• A sense of style
• Blogging for beginners
• Getting started
• Ideas and content
• Writing and linking
• Deepening the reader experience
• Exercise your brain

+Writing and linking

Remember the headline is crucial (post title) Controversy and debate Ask a question Key words (nouns verbs) + power words

(adjectivesdescription and emotion) Humour wit quips and puns

Leads and openings ndash think like a journalist Hook Answer your question Tease ndash anecdote etc

Paint a picture Details and facts colour and movement Use lists and examples

+Deepening the reader experience

Use analogy (lsquolikersquo) anecdotes and metaphor

Case studies

Use informed opinion

Discuss different points of view (answer critics)

Add quotes

Do an interview

Add links to relevant content

Illustrate ndash original photos are good

+Exercise your brain

Regular writing exercises improve boththinking capacity and eye-hand coordination

Writing often helps sharpen your focusand establish your voice or point-of-view

Start with things your know about

Read widely and often

Read good writers analyse their styleand structural tricks

Develop an interest or specialitybased on your own passions

Build your expertise

Experiment with different styleson the same piece

• Columns and blogs
• Columns and blogs same beast different spots
• The purpose and the point
• Never be boring
• Types of columns
• The opinion column
• Journalistic column
• Personal column
• Think it through
• How do you write a column
• Choosing a topic
• Structure
• What is your lsquovoicersquo
• A sense of style
• Blogging for beginners
• Getting started
• Ideas and content
• Writing and linking
• Deepening the reader experience
• Exercise your brain

+Deepening the reader experience

Use analogy (lsquolikersquo) anecdotes and metaphor

Case studies

Use informed opinion

Discuss different points of view (answer critics)

Add quotes

Do an interview

Add links to relevant content

Illustrate ndash original photos are good

+Exercise your brain

Regular writing exercises improve boththinking capacity and eye-hand coordination

Writing often helps sharpen your focusand establish your voice or point-of-view

Start with things your know about

Read widely and often

Read good writers analyse their styleand structural tricks

Develop an interest or specialitybased on your own passions

Build your expertise

Experiment with different styleson the same piece

• Columns and blogs
• Columns and blogs same beast different spots
• The purpose and the point
• Never be boring
• Types of columns
• The opinion column
• Journalistic column
• Personal column
• Think it through
• How do you write a column
• Choosing a topic
• Structure
• What is your lsquovoicersquo
• A sense of style
• Blogging for beginners
• Getting started
• Ideas and content
• Writing and linking
• Deepening the reader experience
• Exercise your brain

+Exercise your brain

Regular writing exercises improve boththinking capacity and eye-hand coordination

Writing often helps sharpen your focusand establish your voice or point-of-view

Start with things your know about

Read widely and often

Read good writers analyse their styleand structural tricks

Develop an interest or specialitybased on your own passions

Build your expertise

Experiment with different styleson the same piece

• Columns and blogs
• Columns and blogs same beast different spots
• The purpose and the point
• Never be boring
• Types of columns
• The opinion column
• Journalistic column
• Personal column
• Think it through
• How do you write a column
• Choosing a topic
• Structure
• What is your lsquovoicersquo
• A sense of style
• Blogging for beginners
• Getting started
• Ideas and content
• Writing and linking
• Deepening the reader experience
• Exercise your brain