Blogging 101

Layne McDonald. Ph.D.

Blogging is a form of online writing that allows individuals or organizations to share their thoughts, ideas, and experiences with a wider audience. Blogs can be created on various platforms and are often updated regularly with new posts. The most common uses for blogging include:

  1. Personal Journaling: People use blogs as a platform to share their personal experiences, opinions, and thoughts with others.

  2. Marketing and Branding: Companies and businesses use blogs to promote their products, services, and brand.

  3. News and Information Sharing: Blogs are a platform for journalists, experts, and other individuals to share news and information on specific topics.

  4. Niche Interests: Blogs also share information, experiences, and opinions on specific niches and hobbies, such as travel, food, or technology.

  5. Online Learning: Blogs are used as a resource for online education and as a platform for teachers and students to share information and collaborate on projects.

 

Here are some popular and highly recommended books on blogging include:

  1. "The Art of SEO: Mastering Search Engine Optimization" by Eric Enge, Jess Benson, Rand Fishkin, and others.

  2. "ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income" by Darren Rowse and Chris Garrett.

  3. "Blogging for Creatives: How Designers, Artists, Crafters and Writers Can Blog to Make Contacts, Win Business and Build Success" by Robin Houghton.

  4. "Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen" by Donald Miller.

  5. "Content Rules: How to Create Killer Blogs, Podcasts, Videos, Ebooks, Webinars (and More) That Engage Customers and Ignite Your Business" by Ann Handley and C.C. Chapman.

  6. "The Ultimate Guide to Blogging: How to Build, Write and Promote Your Blog" by Sarah Arrow.

  7. "How to Blog a Book" by Nina Amir.

  8. "Blogging All-in-One For Dummies" by Susan Gunelius.

  9. "The Complete Guide to Understanding and Monetizing Your Blog Traffic" by Pat Flynn.

  10. "The One Hour Content Plan: The Solopreneur's Guide to a Year's Worth of Blog Post Ideas in 60 Minutes and Creating Content That Hooks and Sells" by Meera Kothand.

These are just a few of the many books available on blogging and related topics.

 

Here are a few websites that provide basic information on how to start and maintain a blog:

  1. WordPress.org: One of the most popular blogging platforms, WordPress offers a comprehensive guide on how to start a blog, including information on choosing a domain name, selecting a hosting provider, and customizing your blog design.

  2. Blogger: Owned by Google, Blogger is another popular blogging platform that provides a beginner's guide on how to start a blog, including information on customizing your blog, writing your first post, and promoting your blog.

  3. Hubspot: Hubspot is a marketing and sales platform that provides a comprehensive blog on how to start a blog, including information on choosing a blog topic, creating content, and promoting your blog.

  4. ProBlogger: ProBlogger is a blog dedicated to providing tips and advice on how to start and grow a successful blog. It covers topics such as finding your niche, building your audience, and monetizing your blog.

  5. The Minimalists: The Minimalists is a blog that provides information on minimalism and simple living. They also have a section on how to start a blog, covering topics such as choosing a platform, finding your niche, and creating content.

These websites offer a great starting point for anyone looking to start a blog and provide valuable information on all aspects of blogging, from setting up your blog to promoting it to a wider audience.