The 7 Unwritten Rules of Blogging

blogging rules, blog graphic
Thinking of starting your own blog? If so, you'll want to follow these seven unwritten rules. While there's no universal standard for maintaining a blog, these rules will boost your credibility while attracting new visitors in the process. Blogging Rules: Cite Sources There's nothing wrong with including excerpts or quotes from other websites and sources on your blog. However, you should always link back to the original source. This is done as a courtesy of saying "thanks," but it also shows search engines that your blog isn't a one-way street. Use a Custom Design The great thing about bl...
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Are You Using Tags and Categories Correctly?

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One of the perks of using WordPress as your website's content management system (CMS) is the ability to place new posts and pages within tags and archives. The next time you create a new post or page, look to the right-hand menu and you'll see a widget-like box for "Categories" and "Tags." Using these elements can prove useful in boosting your site's search engine visibility while attracting new visitors in the processors -- but only if it's done correctly. Tags vs Categories: What's The Difference? Some bloggers assume that tags and categories are the same, so they tend to use them intercha...
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Should I Blog Under My Real Name or a Pen Name?

This is a question many first-time bloggers ask (and some seasoned bloggers, as well). One of the key differences between a traditional content-driven website and a blog is that blogs have a more personal touch. The author usually includes his or her name along with a thumbnail photo to create a stronger connection with their readers. But should you use your real name or a pen name when blogging? Pen Name Let's go ahead and discuss the most obvious benefit of using a pen name: identity protection. By blogging under a pen name, you can conceal your real identity from the public. Why is this i...
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How To Make Your Blog Stand Out

While the exact number remains unknown, it's estimated that there are more than 150 million active blogs on the Internet. This includes personal journals, political, entertainment, social, and even crossover e-commerce blogs. With so many blogs currently online -- and more being created each day -- many beginners struggle to differentiate themselves from their competitors. Why Your Blog NEEDS To Stand Out There are several reasons why you should create a unique blog rather than following in the footsteps of other bloggers. For starters, it gives visitors a reason to choose your blog over you...
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You don’t have to do it all… Outsourced Writing

One of the most important parts of blogging is consistency. If you drop off your efforts, your readers will notice. Over time, inconsistent blogging damages your credibility. Eventually, your readers will leave if they cannot depend on you. However, there is another way. Yes, only you know your message and only you have your brand of humor or personality. However, there are many great writers out there that are fully qualified to take on some of your writing chores. Say you like the "fun" posts, but you just cant get these out regularly. You can outsource the "base" or "foundation" artic...
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