4 More Deeper-Level Tips for Better Writing
Most writers crave ways to write with more ease, speed, and impact. In this follow-up to “4 Deeper-Level Tips for Better Writing,” you’ll learn four bonus techniques that will sharpen your craft.
The responses I got from my last post, 4 Deeper-Level Tips for Better Writing, have been tremendous.
But it’s no surprise. I think for most writers, me included, tips on writing better, faster, and with greater ease are always welcome—regardless of time in the game or honors accumulated.
After all, our brains are not static. Learning new techniques and writing tricks is what keeps our thinking nimble and our ideas unique.
So along that same vein, here are four additional deeper-level, better writing tips to get your content off the ground and your words flowing fast.
Bonus Tip #1: Use lots of white space
It’s a daunting thing to click a link and face a wall of text. Even the most fascinating subject can be a hard read if it’s too copy-heavy.
Instead, break up long blocks of text with page breaks, headings, bullets, and graphics.
If you’re formatting your copy on Substack, you have the additional option to use
block quotes,
pull quotes
or callout blocks.
All of these serve as visual cues about the information you’re sharing. They help certain elements of your copy stand out, guiding the reader to take note of specific content.
Even more important than emphasis, breaking up your copy so there’s plenty of white space gives the brain a break and makes it easier to take in information.
White space also boosts readability and comprehension so your reader is better able to absorb whatever you’re trying to convey. And, it’s one of the easiest ways to make your copy look confident and modern.
Bonus Tip #2: Demonstrate credibility
Even the best writing can be brushed off as unimportant if it’s not presented credibly.
Make sure your copy includes multiple credibility-boosters. Glowing testimonials, awards and accolades, and easy-to-spot contact information go a long way in making content appear trustworthy. It’s also a good idea to mention reviews and awards.
Sometimes, admitting a flaw or downside to your product or service helps boost credibility. People appreciate honesty.
And these days, credibility is going to set you apart from robot-driven AI writing, which tends to just focus on the facts.
When you can address the strongest elements of the product or service you’re writing about, and acknowledge any weaknesses (ideally then flipping them into selling points that underscore the authenticity of something)…
That’s when a logical conversion takes place in your reader’s mind, and also when you win them over emotionally to get them to take the next action.
Bonus Tip #3: Study writers with strong voices
If you want to practice good writing, it’s smart to spend time with successful writers. Make it a point to read articles, blogs, and other content crafted by strong writers.
How do you know you’re reading something from a strong writer? There are two reliable measures: One is when you’re still thinking about the piece long after you’ve finished reading it, and the second is when you get a clear takeaway from the writing.
Once you’ve pinpointed a strong writing voice, make it a point to get to know that writer. Read everything you can from them. Go and hear them speak if possible.
If there’s no way you’ll ever connect in person, at least connect via social media. Substack and LinkedIn are excellent for presenting a well-rounded picture of other professionals. You can find out what books they read, what conferences they attend, and what gurus they follow.
The more strong voices you study, the stronger your own writing voice becomes.
Bonus Tip #4: Review, review, review
Keep in mind that every second of attention you get from a reader is precious. Make an effort to write your content several days before you have to submit it. This gives you the chance to step back and take a break from it so you can do the final review with fresh eyes.
Then read it out loud. Listen for rhythm and cadence, and be mindful of any errors your eyes missed.
After that, let it go—either to the client for review, or to a trusted writer friend who can give you unbiased feedback.
And then embrace that feedback. Most top-selling, high-performing books and sales letters had whole teams of reviewers and critics—and even then, the tiniest of errors can still squeak by. Good writing is a process.
Each one of these tips has been tried and tested over time in the Barefoot Writer world. Each stands on its own in ability to strengthen content.
Whether that means getting your content to work better through more consistent conversions…
Strengthening the bond with your reader…
Or branding your company, product, or service…
Well-thought-out, quality writing can accomplish much.
And if you’re building your career as a paid writer, these are absolutely the techniques that will help you retain clients and gain referrals so you can build your writing brand (and income!).
Remember, good writing is a process—and mastery comes from practicing these habits over time.