Writing for the web is tricky, especially if you come from a print background. Web readers are finicky: they want content they can read easily and quickly.
Here are 5 simple tips to help make your website’s content web user friendly.
1. Use lists where possible
Web users love to scan, and lists are perfect for scanning. If possible, keep each list item to only one line. Try to keep the word count to no more than 7 words per list item.
2. Keep each paragraph to 1 idea
Keep your paragraphs to the point. Web users want meat; they don’t want garnishes or appetizers. Just give them what they want.
3. Write short sentences
Don’t get flowery. Tell it like it is, and let your reader know what you mean up front. If you need help reducing wordiness, check out How to chop your word count like a lumberjack.
4. Include sub-headings
This pairs perfectly with the tip on lists. Sub-headings make your document scannable, thus making it more useful.
5. Integrate your links into your copy
Links act like a highlighter, making key words jump out at the reader. Like their close cousins lists and sub-headings, links help transform your document into something that is scannable and easy to use.
What are some useful tricks you’ve found while writing for the web? Share them in the comments below.