When planning a How-to article, it is important to first understand why people read How-to articles. Most people seek out tips, tricks, and methods to make things better, easier, and faster, not to learn how to do new things. When writing a How-to article, one must spell out the benefits of their article early on with the title. This title needs to be attention-grabbing, and powerful.
A template for this could be: How to [Task] That [Benefit]. For example: "How to Get a Better Job That Makes More Money," etc. You can also use a different format that links the task to a benefit this way: How to [Task] and [Benefit]. For example: "How to Save Money and Retire Rich," "How to Save Time and Get Things Done."
Here is an easy step-by-step process: Step 1: Choose Topic Step 2: Choose Title Step 3: Write introduction to article. The opening line is the second most important entity to the entire article, the first being the title. It needs to capture the reader's interest Step 4: Add list of supplies, if needed Step 5: List Instructions in chronological order. Limit each step to one idea. Keep sentences short and simple. Avoid first-person to address reader. Use terms to address general public. Use universal tone of language to address wide audience. Step 6: Add additional tips or advice--include common mistakes and misconceptions Step 7: Edit and Finish
How-to Article:
When planning a How-to article, it is important to first understand why people read How-to articles. Most people seek out tips, tricks, and methods to make things better, easier, and faster, not to learn how to do new things. When writing a How-to article, one must spell out the benefits of their article early on with the title. This title needs to be attention-grabbing, and powerful.
A template for this could be: How to [Task] That [Benefit]. For example: "How to Get a Better Job That Makes More Money," etc. You can also use a different format that links the task to a benefit this way: How to [Task] and [Benefit]. For example: "How to Save Money and Retire Rich," "How to Save Time and Get Things Done."
Here is an easy step-by-step process:
Step 1: Choose Topic
Step 2: Choose Title
Step 3: Write introduction to article. The opening line is the second most important entity to the entire article, the first being the title. It needs to capture the reader's interest
Step 4: Add list of supplies, if needed
Step 5: List Instructions in chronological order. Limit each step to one idea. Keep sentences short and simple. Avoid first-person to address reader. Use terms to address general public. Use universal tone of language to address wide audience.
Step 6: Add additional tips or advice--include common mistakes and misconceptions
Step 7: Edit and Finish
Here are some links to help you along the way of making a great How-to Article:
How to Write a Killer "How To" Article
How-to Essay
Template
Sample How-To Articles:
How to Protect Your Pet from the Swine Flu