Ever feel like you’re scrolling through online content on autopilot? Clicking, skimming, barely registering the words? You’re not alone. In today’s fast-paced world, skim reading is king. But what exactly is it, and how can we, as writers, write online articles that grab attention in this sea of skimming eyes?
Skimming… Or Scanning?
You quickly scan headlines, pictures, and bold text, getting a general idea of the content without reading every word. That’s skim reading in a nutshell.
Online, it’s even faster, with readers judging an article’s worth in a split second.
Of course, good things take time. But, it is scary to be a writer these days. Sometimes, it feels like professionalism isn’t compatible with the kind of humour that can grab attention. At this point, we might even start questioning, what’s so bad about being bad?
Why Do People Skim Read Online?
Image via Iris Reading
We’re all juggling a million things these days, and online content is no exception. Information overload is real – there’s just so much stuff out there! That’s why skimming has become the go-to strategy. It helps us filter through the noise quickly and find what we actually need.
Plus, let’s face it, our attention spans seem to be shrinking. Distractions are just a click away, so skimming allows us to gather information efficiently before that next shiny online object catches our eye.
How To Make People Stop And Read?
So, how do we write articles that stand out in this skim-heavy environment? Here are some tips (we’ll keep it short, promise):
1. Captivate With Headlines
Your headline is your first impression. Make it clear, concise, and intriguing. Use strong verbs and keywords that pique curiosity.
2. Structure For Scannability
B r e a k u p y o u r t e x t! Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings. This makes it easier for readers to scan and grasp key points.
3. Start Strong, Finish Stronger
Hook readers with a captivating opening sentence or paragraph. Summarise your main points in a clear conclusion.
4. Bold The Important Bits
Highlight key phrases or statistics with bold text. This helps readers quickly identify important information.
5. Visual Appeal Matters
Image via Boot Odyssey
Include relevant images, infographics, or videos. Visuals not only break up text but also enhance understanding and memory.
6. Write In A Conversational Tone
Imagine you’re chatting with a friend. Use a clear, friendly style that’s easy to read and understand.
7. Focus On Benefits
Why should someone read your article? Clearly communicate the value your content offers to the reader.
8. Keep It Short And Sweet
People have short attention spans. Aim for concise articles that deliver the information efficiently.
Remember, you’re competing for attention. Put yourself in the reader’s shoes. Would you stop and read your own article if you saw it scrolling by? This simple test can help you refine your writing and make it more skim-proof.
So dear writers, always remember the skimmers! Write content online that cuts through the noise and gets read. Happy writing!
