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Writing a compelling blog post takes thought and planning. While you may be tempted to just sit down and start typing, taking the time to create an outline first will pay off in the end. A strong blog post outline serves as a roadmap, keeping your content focused, organised and optimised for your target audience.
Follow the steps below to craft an effective blog post outline that will boost engagement and get results.
Choose Your Topic
The first step is deciding on a blog post topic that is relevant to your readers. Do keyword research to identify topics and questions your audience is searching for. Aim for a specific, narrow focus rather than something broad.
For example, “tips for walking your dog” is too wide. “5 tips for leash training your new puppy” is more specific.
Research the Topic
Conduct research on your chosen topic so your content provides value. Search engines, industry articles and experts in the space are all great resources.
Make a list of key points, facts, statistics and examples to include in your post. Citing credible sources adds authority.
Determine Your Key Message
With your research complete, boil down the purpose of your post into one key message or main idea. This will focus the content and guide the outline.
For example, the key message may be, “Proper leash training ensures your puppy becomes a model walking companion.”
Craft a Compelling Title
Your title is critical for drawing readers in and optimising SEO. Include your main keyword phrase and keep it under 60 characters.
For this example post, the title could be “5 Tips for Leash Training Your New Puppy.” It’s clear, focused and keyword-optimised.
Write Your Introduction
The intro paragraph should transition the reader into your post, state the key message and outline what the content will cover.
For the puppy post, briefly explain the challenges of leash training a puppy. State that readers can master proper leash training by following the five tips in the post.
Structure the Body with Subheadings
Use subheadings to organise the body into sections covering each tip or main point. This enhances readability and SEO.
For the puppy post, subheadings could be:
1. Start Early and Be Consistent
2. Use Reward-Based Training
3. Choose the Right Equipment
4. Practice Loose Leash Walking
5. Train for Distractions
Include High-Quality Visuals
Relevant images, infographics, videos and graphics make content more visually appealing and digestible.
For the puppy post, include photos of puppies walking properly on leashes, as well as any graphics that illustrate techniques or equipment.
Insert a Call-to-Action Paragraph
Near the end, include a paragraph prompting the reader to take action based on your content. This could be signing up for your email list, scheduling a consultation, downloading an offer, etc.
For example, “If leash training your puppy feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional dog trainer for help.”
Conclude with Key Takeaways
Summarise the importance of proper leash training and restate one or two of your main tips. End by encouraging readers to implement your advice for a better-behaved and happier pup.
Proofread and Format Your Post
The final step in your blog post outline is carefully proofreading your entire post for grammatical or spelling errors. Also, format for visual appeal, using bold fonts for subheadings and bullet points for lists.
Get Help from a Professional Blog Writer
If crafting compelling blog posts feels challenging, consider hiring a blog writing agency. Professional blog writers can research topics, create optimised content, and even manage your blog. This frees up your time to focus on other business priorities.
While it takes more time upfront, creating a strong blog post outline sets your article up for success. The outline keeps the content organised, focused and tailored to appeal to your readers. Use these steps to outline compelling blog posts that attract and engage your target audience.
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