Catholic Schools are known for teaching impeccable grammar {those nuns know their stuff}, but I’ve got to say – the one I went to really excelled at teaching writing. I still remember memorizing the formula for a 5 paragraph persuasive essay.
And, let me tell ya – that has come in handy. I’m talking during timed standardized tests like the SATs and the PRAXIS II and my mad writing skills made me pretty popular in the freshman dorms.
Now, those same principles help me write compelling and concise blog posts! The formula is a bit different, but it’s the same concept, really. Once you have the formula down – every blog you write will grab your reader’s attention and keep it all the way through.
Here are the 5 key pieces to every compelling blog post!
1. Grab Your Reader’s attention with the first 1-3 sentences:
This may be the most important part of a blog post. If you don’t grab and hold your readers’ attention in the first few sentences, they’re gone.
From my years of mom blogging, I’ve learned to do this with personal stories. I get that won’t be comfortable for everyone. Whether or not you choose to share a personal story to connect, just make sure it isn’t boring.
2. State or Restate the Blog Post Title {aka thesis} as a Headline:
Find a creative way to restate your title in one sentence. Set this has a heading just before your list. Done and done.
3. Write a List of Supporting Statements:
When I say write a list, I don’t just mean a list of words or phrases. You can start with a list of words or phrases, but add details to each that support your point. I’m thinking about 3-4 sentences for each.
Here’s a fun little tip – blog posts with list that are ODD numbers get more clicks. Weird, right?
4. Bring Everything Together with a Short Conclusion that, Again, Restates Your Title/Thesis:
This one is optional. You can simply jump right to your call to action, or you can combine your conclusion with your call to action. If you told a story in the beginning, it is best to bring your blog post back to that reference point again at the end before you ask your reader to take action.
5. Wrap it up with a Clear Call to Action {CTA}:
When your blog post has come to an end, don’t drag things out. Take 1-2 sentences and clearly let your reader know what to do next. See below…
There ya have it folks, just like that 5 paragraph persuasive essay you wrote in grade school, every blog post have 5 key components.
Do you use a blog writing formula for your content writing? I’d love to hear about it. And, let me know how this format works for you.
P.S. If you know your business can benefit from content marketing through blogging, but this is all just a bit too overwhelming for you, we should chat. I’d be happy to help you with strategy or completely take it off your plate. Connect with me here.
