LitWiki - User contributions [en]

Categorizing Posts

2013-04-29T22:35:40Z

CandiceBarca: /* Categorizing Posts by Candice Barca */

A blog is organized and structured using categories and tags. Readers searching for information written on a broad topic will benefit more from categories. Those readers looking for a more specific topic will find tags to be more useful because they narrow down the information to a particular topic. Categories and tags will help readers navigate a blog's content easily to find the information they are looking for.

[[Image:Categories-Tags.jpg|thumb|right|alt Frontline.com]]

== Categories ==

[http://lorelle.wordpress.com/2005/09/09/categories-versus-tags-whats-the-difference-and-which-one/ Categories] give readers a broad overview of what kind of content a blog holds so that they can decide if that blog holds the right information for them. When choosing a category for a post, bloggers need to consider the readers that will visit their blog and what needs they might have. Bloggers must find the balance of being specific with a category so that the kind of information it holds is clear without being too broad. Readers must be able to look at categories within a blog and know right away if they are in the right place. One thing bloggers must be cautious about when choosing a category is that they have more than one post that can fit under that category. Displaying a single post within a category will give the readers the impression that the blogger does not know a lot about that subject. On the other hand a blogger doesn't want to make a category so strong and filled with too much information that it will need it's own blog site.

== Tags ==

Tags are similar to [http://weblogs.about.com/od/partsofablog/qt/CategoriesOvrvw.htm/ "keywords"] and help readers find a specific topic within a category. Tags help readers identify specific information within a particular post. Posts can have many tags which allow them to be categorized with other posts to make it easier for readers to navigate a blog. A tag name must be specific, for example if a blog post is about how to make home made pizza you would put it under a cooking category but one of the tags would be pizza. Readers can find the tag links under each post, by clicking on the tag links readers will be taken to an archive where every post related to that tag can be found.

== Descriptive Categories ==

Categories should [http://wiredimpact.com/blog/making-blog-categories-more-useful/ describe] to readers what content they hold without a huge explanation of them. With each category a blogger creates they must keep in mind the over all focus of their blog and what their readers are looking for. Make it obvious what kind of posts a category holds. Bloggers have the difficult task of finding the happy medium between a category being too broad or too specific in their description. If the category is too specific it leaves the reader with less choices, if it is too broad it will make it difficult for a reader to find what they are looking for and they will move on. When bloggers are brainstorming about how to describe their categories they should keep in mind how it will appear in a search engine. A blogs categories and tags will help readers find the blog they are looking for when using search engines.

== References ==

1. Carroll, Brian. (2010). Writing for Digital Media. New York: Routledge. Retrieved 4 April 2013.

2. [http://lorelle.wordpress.com/2005/09/09/categories-versus-tags-whats-the-difference-and-which-one/ Categories versus Tags] Lorelle On WordPress Web. Retrieved 9 April 2013.

3. [http://wiredimpact.com/blog/making-blog-categories-more-useful/ Making Blog Categories More Useful] Wired Impact Web. Retrieved 9 April 2013.

4. [http://weblogs.about.com/od/partsofablog/qt/CategoriesOvrvw.htm/ An Overview of Blog categories] About.com Web. Retrieved 9 April 2013.

5. [http://frontlinecopy.com/2013/02/how-to-use-categories-tags-keywords-in-your-green-business-blog/ How to use categories, tags & keywords in your green business blog] Frontlinecopy.com Web. Retrieved 9 April 2013.

Categorizing Posts

2013-04-26T20:02:53Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

Themes

2013-04-26T19:56:54Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

This is where we will put an introduction to this page.

===How to pick a theme===

Picking the [http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ perfect theme] for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog. The number one thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is compatibility. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a [http://www.cssigniter.com/ignite/themes/molly/ Molly Blog WP theme]. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a [http://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/dailyjournal/ Daily journal WP theme] would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key, themes with a lot going on might look good but are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser. A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is the way to go when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger to pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful start.

===Where to get a theme===

===Theme attributes===
[[File:Screen Shot 2013-04-24 at 5.19.28 PM.png|thumb|upright=2.6|Theme details display specs]]
Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme.|

====Widgets====
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.

====Color & Background====
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.

====Menus====
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.

====Browser compatibility====
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several [http://theme.wordpress.com/themes/features/responsive-width/ |"mobile themes"] that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.<ref>Mobile Themes Support</ref>

===How to apply the theme===

===Notes===
<references/>

===References===
#[http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress] wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013

2. [http://bloggingwordpress.net/2013/02/wordpress-blog-themes.html/ 20+ Simple WordPress Blog Themes for Personal] W Blogging web. 19 Feb. 2013

Themes

2013-04-26T19:56:40Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

This is where we will put an introduction to this page.

===How to pick a theme===

Picking the [http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ perfect theme] for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog. The number one thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is compatibility. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a [http://www.cssigniter.com/ignite/themes/molly/ Molly Blog WP theme]. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a [http://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/dailyjournal/ Daily journal WP theme] would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key, themes with a lot going on might look good but are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser. A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is the way to go when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger to pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful start.

===Where to get a theme===

===Theme attributes===
[[File:Screen Shot 2013-04-24 at 5.19.28 PM.png|thumb|upright=2.6|Theme details display specs]]
Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme.|

====Widgets====
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.

====Color & Background====
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.

====Menus====
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.

====Browser compatibility====
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several [http://theme.wordpress.com/themes/features/responsive-width/ |"mobile themes"] that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.<ref>Mobile Themes Support</ref>

===How to apply the theme===

===Notes===
<references/>

===References===
#[http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress] wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013

2.[http://bloggingwordpress.net/2013/02/wordpress-blog-themes.html/ 20+ Simple WordPress Blog Themes for Personal] W Blogging web. 19 Feb. 2013

Themes

2013-04-26T19:56:22Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

This is where we will put an introduction to this page.

===How to pick a theme===

Picking the [http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ perfect theme] for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog. The number one thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is compatibility. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a [http://www.cssigniter.com/ignite/themes/molly/ Molly Blog WP theme]. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a [http://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/dailyjournal/ Daily journal WP theme] would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key, themes with a lot going on might look good but are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser. A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is the way to go when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger to pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful start.

===Where to get a theme===

===Theme attributes===
[[File:Screen Shot 2013-04-24 at 5.19.28 PM.png|thumb|upright=2.6|Theme details display specs]]
Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme.|

====Widgets====
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.

====Color & Background====
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.

====Menus====
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.

====Browser compatibility====
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several [http://theme.wordpress.com/themes/features/responsive-width/ |"mobile themes"] that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.<ref>Mobile Themes Support</ref>

===How to apply the theme===

===Notes===
<references/>

===References===
#[http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress] wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013

#2[http://bloggingwordpress.net/2013/02/wordpress-blog-themes.html/ 20+ Simple WordPress Blog Themes for Personal] W Blogging web. 19 Feb. 2013

Themes

2013-04-26T19:55:57Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

This is where we will put an introduction to this page.

===How to pick a theme===

Picking the [http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ perfect theme] for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog. The number one thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is compatibility. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a [http://www.cssigniter.com/ignite/themes/molly/ Molly Blog WP theme]. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a [http://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/dailyjournal/ Daily journal WP theme] would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key, themes with a lot going on might look good but are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser. A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is the way to go when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger to pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful start.

===Where to get a theme===

===Theme attributes===
[[File:Screen Shot 2013-04-24 at 5.19.28 PM.png|thumb|upright=2.6|Theme details display specs]]
Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme.|

====Widgets====
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.

====Color & Background====
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.

====Menus====
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.

====Browser compatibility====
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several [http://theme.wordpress.com/themes/features/responsive-width/ |"mobile themes"] that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.<ref>Mobile Themes Support</ref>

===How to apply the theme===

===Notes===
<references/>

===References===
#[http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress] wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013

#[http://bloggingwordpress.net/2013/02/wordpress-blog-themes.html/ 20+ Simple WordPress Blog Themes for Personal] W Blogging web. 19 Feb. 2013

Themes

2013-04-26T19:55:15Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

Themes

2013-04-26T19:52:33Z

CandiceBarca: /* How to pick a theme */

Themes

2013-04-26T19:49:53Z

CandiceBarca: /* How to pick a theme */

This is where we will put an introduction to this page.

===How to pick a theme===

Picking the [http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ perfect theme] for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog. The number one thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is compatibility. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a [http://www.cssigniter.com/ignite/themes/molly/ Molly Blog WP template]. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a [http://www.elegantthemes.com/gallery/dailyjournal/ Daily journal WP theme] would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key, themes with a lot going on might look good but are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser. A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is the way to go when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, Search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger to pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful start.

===Where to get a theme===

===Theme attributes===
[[File:Screen Shot 2013-04-24 at 5.19.28 PM.png|thumb|upright=2.6|Theme details display specs]]
Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme.|

====Widgets====
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.

====Color & Background====
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.

====Menus====
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.

====Browser compatibility====
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several [http://theme.wordpress.com/themes/features/responsive-width/ |"mobile themes"] that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.<ref>Mobile Themes Support</ref>

===How to apply the theme===

===Notes===
<references/>

===References===
#[http://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-themes/selecting-the-perfect-theme-for-wordpress/ Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress] wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013

Blog Writing for College Students

2013-04-25T16:51:33Z

CandiceBarca: /* Categorizing Posts by Candice Barca */

==Focus (Group Leader Shanna Dixon)==
The planning stage of creating a blog begins by developing a focus. Developing a focus involves choosing a blog topic, researching, setting [[participation]] standards, and identifying a target [[audience]]. By choosing a focused topic, researching to establish authority, developing relevant means of participation for the interactive needs of the audience, and knowing the targeted audience the college student will be prepared to create blog content within a platform that will be most engaging. The best blogs are highly specific.<ref>Carrol, 163</ref> Devoting time to developing focus strengthens a blog's chance at thriving in the digital world.

===[[Choosing Your Topic|Choosing Your Topic]] by Amy Rehner===
Choosing a focused topic is essential to the success of the overall blog. A topic expresses one essential idea within writing and unifies each successive post. At first, a specific topic may seem to confine creativity, but focusing the topic actually provides endless creative possibilities. A focused topic encourages the audience to engage more actively and interact as a part of a blog community, ultimately enhancing the popularity of the blog.

===[[Research Methods|Research Methods]] by Melissa Grantham===
Research is the process of gathering information, evaluating it, and applying it to a question or problem. When writing for digital media, research allows writers to narrow their focus. Having a narrow focus makes a blog more interesting and the writer an expert on the topic.

===[[Participation|Participation]] by Marian G. Brewer===
When starting a blog, it is important the blog author knows how to encourage participation with not only other bloggers, but the readers. Participation is more than just writing in a clean and concise manner. Blog authors must understand that a blog does not operate in a vacuum, but instead is a piece of a vast branching network. Blogrolls, share buttons, and enabling comments are a few ways to increase participation.

===[[Audience|Audience]] by Shanna Dixon===

Before creating content for a blog, it is important, first, to identify the audience. The blog author should define the target audience, research the target audience, and understand the conventions expected in terms of language, design, and credibility before creating content. In this way, the author will be able to build toward an interactive community based on shared points of view and relevancy in order to engage the targeted reader with pertinent information and sources.

==Organization (Group Leader Nadine Epperson)==
To maintain readership of a blog, a writer must create an organized space. Quality content can easily be overlooked on a cluttered, inconsistent page. Organization includes the overall structure of the site as well as the individual posts. There are several things that contribute to this consistency.[[Categorizing Posts | Categories and tags]] aid in narrowing the focus of each post within the blog. [[Headers and Sub-headers | Headers and sub-headers]] should give the reader a clear indication of what is contained in each section. By using [[Lists | lists]], digital media writers can highlight important content, break up posts, and guide readers through a sequence of information. [[Links | Links]] connect the page to other sites on the internet and offer access to other portions of the blog. All of these elements support the structure of an organized, consistent environment for content.

===[[Themes|Themes]] Group entry===

===[[Categorizing Posts|Categorizing Posts]]===

Categorizing a post is vital to the structure and organization of a blog. Categories help readers quickly identify the content of a blog. Tags provide specific information while grouping together like posts. Together categories and tags make it easier for readers to navigate the information within a blog.

===[[Headers and Sub-headers|Headers and Sub-headers]] by Chrissonia McCall===

Headers and sub-headers are an important part of blogging used to organize content. Keeping in mind the goals and vision of the blog, headers and sub-headers help readers find specific information in a short amount of time.

===[[Lists|Lists]] by Tiory Clark===
While developing a blog, lists can be used to not only emphasize subjects, but highlight important texts. It is imperative that the blog remain focused on its subject and has clarity. Lists help a reader to navigate the posts successfully and easily. Lists can also be detrimental to a blog if overused or incorrectly formatted. In digital Media a mistake like that can costs readers and credibility.

===[[Links|Links]] by Nadine Epperson===
No page on the internet stands alone. The connection of sites on the internet is what makes the web interactive. Links play a vital role in maintaining this interactivity. By connecting to other areas of the internet, readers are given access to an unlimited pool of information.

==Writing Style (Group Leader Kristin Hanlin)==
After choosing a well-researched and focused topic and organizing the aesthetic and technical aspects of running a blog, blog writers must develop a consistent style for writing for digital media. It is crucial to keep in mind that online writing is an entirely different world separate from print. With the freedom digital media allows writers, there are also certain responsibilities that must be maintained in order for a blog to be effective at appealing to readers. Though writing for digital media encompasses writing techniques that are useful in print media (like following the [[Inverted Pyramid|Inverted Pyramid]] and [[proofreading|proofreading]] your posts), there are also key differences. Blogs must be [[Scan-ability|scannable]], because digital readers do not like to have to read without direction. While writing for a blog, less is typically more and [[brevity | brevity]] is admired. Following these writing techniques will help lead to the development of a credible an appealing blog.

===[[Scan-ability|Scan-ability]] by Kristin Hanlin===
If digital writing is not scannable, many times it will not be read. Writers of digital media must pay special attention to scan-ability because readers of digital writing are known to be easily distracted, impatient, and unwilling to read huge blocks of text. Digital writers must understand and utilize different properties of text, visuals, multimedia, and linking to maximize scan-ability.

===[[Brevity|Brevity]] by Haley Clarke===
Brevity is critical for meaningful writing. By forcing the writer to be intentional with their words and always being be brief, precise, and direct a writer is less likely to ramble and lose the reader.

===[[Inverted Pyramid|Inverted Pyramid]] by Siobahn Fisher===

College student bloggers should familiarize themselves with the inverted pyramid. This design for news and information delivery via the web will help new bloggers quickly achieve [[brevity]] while communicating in a concise way. The inverted pyramid is important to the retention of a blog's audience.

===[[Proofreading|Proofreading]] by Kasey Miller===

Proofreading is essential for all writing. It requires reviewing and revising mistakes for a flawless and error free document. Proofreading for mistakes gives creditability to your document and will not distract readers with mistakes.

==Notes==
<references/>

==References==
#Carrol, Brian. (2010). ''"[http://www.scribd.com/doc/64429015/Writing-for-Digital-Media Writing for Digital Media]"''. New York: Routledge. Retrieved 14 March 2013.

Blog Writing for College Students

2013-04-25T16:51:13Z

CandiceBarca: /* Categorizing Posts */

==Focus (Group Leader Shanna Dixon)==
The planning stage of creating a blog begins by developing a focus. Developing a focus involves choosing a blog topic, researching, setting [[participation]] standards, and identifying a target [[audience]]. By choosing a focused topic, researching to establish authority, developing relevant means of participation for the interactive needs of the audience, and knowing the targeted audience the college student will be prepared to create blog content within a platform that will be most engaging. The best blogs are highly specific.<ref>Carrol, 163</ref> Devoting time to developing focus strengthens a blog's chance at thriving in the digital world.

===[[Choosing Your Topic|Choosing Your Topic]] by Amy Rehner===
Choosing a focused topic is essential to the success of the overall blog. A topic expresses one essential idea within writing and unifies each successive post. At first, a specific topic may seem to confine creativity, but focusing the topic actually provides endless creative possibilities. A focused topic encourages the audience to engage more actively and interact as a part of a blog community, ultimately enhancing the popularity of the blog.

===[[Research Methods|Research Methods]] by Melissa Grantham===
Research is the process of gathering information, evaluating it, and applying it to a question or problem. When writing for digital media, research allows writers to narrow their focus. Having a narrow focus makes a blog more interesting and the writer an expert on the topic.

===[[Participation|Participation]] by Marian G. Brewer===
When starting a blog, it is important the blog author knows how to encourage participation with not only other bloggers, but the readers. Participation is more than just writing in a clean and concise manner. Blog authors must understand that a blog does not operate in a vacuum, but instead is a piece of a vast branching network. Blogrolls, share buttons, and enabling comments are a few ways to increase participation.

===[[Audience|Audience]] by Shanna Dixon===

Before creating content for a blog, it is important, first, to identify the audience. The blog author should define the target audience, research the target audience, and understand the conventions expected in terms of language, design, and credibility before creating content. In this way, the author will be able to build toward an interactive community based on shared points of view and relevancy in order to engage the targeted reader with pertinent information and sources.

==Organization (Group Leader Nadine Epperson)==
To maintain readership of a blog, a writer must create an organized space. Quality content can easily be overlooked on a cluttered, inconsistent page. Organization includes the overall structure of the site as well as the individual posts. There are several things that contribute to this consistency.[[Categorizing Posts | Categories and tags]] aid in narrowing the focus of each post within the blog. [[Headers and Sub-headers | Headers and sub-headers]] should give the reader a clear indication of what is contained in each section. By using [[Lists | lists]], digital media writers can highlight important content, break up posts, and guide readers through a sequence of information. [[Links | Links]] connect the page to other sites on the internet and offer access to other portions of the blog. All of these elements support the structure of an organized, consistent environment for content.

===[[Themes|Themes]] Group entry===

===[[Categorizing Posts|Categorizing Posts by Candice Barca]]===

Categorizing a post is vital to the structure and organization of a blog. Categories help readers quickly identify the content of a blog. Tags provide specific information while grouping together like posts. Together categories and tags make it easier for readers to navigate the information within a blog.

===[[Headers and Sub-headers|Headers and Sub-headers]] by Chrissonia McCall===

Headers and sub-headers are an important part of blogging used to organize content. Keeping in mind the goals and vision of the blog, headers and sub-headers help readers find specific information in a short amount of time.

===[[Lists|Lists]] by Tiory Clark===
While developing a blog, lists can be used to not only emphasize subjects, but highlight important texts. It is imperative that the blog remain focused on its subject and has clarity. Lists help a reader to navigate the posts successfully and easily. Lists can also be detrimental to a blog if overused or incorrectly formatted. In digital Media a mistake like that can costs readers and credibility.

===[[Links|Links]] by Nadine Epperson===
No page on the internet stands alone. The connection of sites on the internet is what makes the web interactive. Links play a vital role in maintaining this interactivity. By connecting to other areas of the internet, readers are given access to an unlimited pool of information.

==Writing Style (Group Leader Kristin Hanlin)==
After choosing a well-researched and focused topic and organizing the aesthetic and technical aspects of running a blog, blog writers must develop a consistent style for writing for digital media. It is crucial to keep in mind that online writing is an entirely different world separate from print. With the freedom digital media allows writers, there are also certain responsibilities that must be maintained in order for a blog to be effective at appealing to readers. Though writing for digital media encompasses writing techniques that are useful in print media (like following the [[Inverted Pyramid|Inverted Pyramid]] and [[proofreading|proofreading]] your posts), there are also key differences. Blogs must be [[Scan-ability|scannable]], because digital readers do not like to have to read without direction. While writing for a blog, less is typically more and [[brevity | brevity]] is admired. Following these writing techniques will help lead to the development of a credible an appealing blog.

===[[Scan-ability|Scan-ability]] by Kristin Hanlin===
If digital writing is not scannable, many times it will not be read. Writers of digital media must pay special attention to scan-ability because readers of digital writing are known to be easily distracted, impatient, and unwilling to read huge blocks of text. Digital writers must understand and utilize different properties of text, visuals, multimedia, and linking to maximize scan-ability.

===[[Brevity|Brevity]] by Haley Clarke===
Brevity is critical for meaningful writing. By forcing the writer to be intentional with their words and always being be brief, precise, and direct a writer is less likely to ramble and lose the reader.

===[[Inverted Pyramid|Inverted Pyramid]] by Siobahn Fisher===

College student bloggers should familiarize themselves with the inverted pyramid. This design for news and information delivery via the web will help new bloggers quickly achieve [[brevity]] while communicating in a concise way. The inverted pyramid is important to the retention of a blog's audience.

===[[Proofreading|Proofreading]] by Kasey Miller===

Proofreading is essential for all writing. It requires reviewing and revising mistakes for a flawless and error free document. Proofreading for mistakes gives creditability to your document and will not distract readers with mistakes.

==Notes==
<references/>

==References==
#Carrol, Brian. (2010). ''"[http://www.scribd.com/doc/64429015/Writing-for-Digital-Media Writing for Digital Media]"''. New York: Routledge. Retrieved 14 March 2013.

2013-04-11T14:15:08Z

CandiceBarca: /* Categorizing Posts by Candice Barca */

==Focus (Group Leader Shanna Dixon)==

*[[Choosing Your Topic|Choosing Your Topic]] by Amy Rehner

*[[Research Methods|Research Methods]] by Melissa Grantham

*[[Interactivity|Interactivity]] by Marian Brewer

*[[Audience|Audience]] by Shanna Dixon

==Organization (Group Leader Nadine Epperson)==
To maintain readership of a blog, a writer must create an organized space. Quality content can easily be overlooked on a cluttered, inconsistent page. Organization includes the overall structure of the site as well as the individual posts. There are several things that contribute to this consistency.[[Categorizing Posts | Categories and tags]] aid in narrowing the focus of each post within the blog. [[Headers and Sub-headers | Headers and sub-headers]] should give the reader a clear indication of what is contained in each section. By using [[Lists | lists]], digital media writers can highlight important content, break up posts, and guide readers through a sequence of information. [[Links | Links]] connect the page to other sites on the internet and offer access to other portions of the blog. All of these elements support the structure of an organized, consistent environment for content.

===[[Categorizing Posts|Categorizing Posts]] by Candice Barca===

Categorizing a post is vital to the structure and organization of a blog. Categories help readers quickly identify the content of a blog. Tags provide specific information while grouping together like posts. Together categories and tags make it easier for readers to navigate the information within a blog.

===[[Headers and Sub-headers|Headers and Sub-headers]] by Chrissonia McCall===

===[[Lists|Lists]] by Tiory Clark===

===[[Links|Links]]===
No page on the internet stands alone. The connection of sites on the internet is what makes the web interactive. Links play a vital role in maintaining this interactivity. By connecting to other areas of the internet, readers are given access to an unlimited pool of information.

==Writing Style (Group Leader Kristin Hanlin)==

*[[Readability|Readability]] by Andrew Clouse

*[[Scan-ability|Scan-ability]] by Kristin Hanlin

*[[Brevity|Brevity]] by Haley Clarke

*[[Inverted Pyramid|Inverted Pyramid]] by Siobahn Fisher

*[[Proofreading|Proofreading]] by Kasey Miller

CandiceBarca:

'''Posts'''

Posts are considered the main content of a blog. [http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts Posts] are marked by date showing the most recent post at the top of your main blog page. By putting posts in reverse chronological order it will help readers find the most current information on your blog. The date of your post is also found in the URL for that post. Posts can be found in the RSS feed, widgets, archives, recent posts and categories. In the reading settings you can control how many posts you would like to display on your home page. Your posts will always be linked to the date in which you published it, unlike pages which are not displayed with a date, category, or tag.

== Constructing a New Post ==

'''How to Add a new Post'''

After signing in to WordPress, go to your [http://en.support.wordpress.com/dashboard Dashboard]. Once you are on your Dashboard you will see tabs on the left side of the screen, go to the Posts tab which will open up other options, click on Add New. This will open up the editing screen where you can chose the title of your post, write the content of the post and add links or photos to your post.

'''Modules'''

The [http://en.support.wordpress.com/modules/ modules] you will use most when constructing a post are the Title module, Editor module and the Publish module. Once you chose a title for your post and enter it in the Title module it will automatically create a URL for that post. In the Editor module you will type in the content of your post. You can edit the content similar to how you edit text in Microsoft Word. The icons found at the top of the Editor module can all be displayed by clicking the kitchen sink icon. These icons will help you format the post. The chain link and unlink symbol will help you create a hyperlink, or unlink a hyperlink.The Publish module is where you will save your draft and publish it when you are ready. It is also where you can later edit and update that post.

'''Add Media'''

The [http://en.support.wordpress.com/add-media/ Add Media] button right above the Editor module is where you can upload photos or files to place in your post. Once a photo appears in your post you can click on it and in the top right corner of the photo a delete option or an edit option will be displayed. The edit option will allow you to format how or where the photo appears in your text. Once you have your post formatted the way you want it you are ready to move on to the Publish module.

== Publishing a Post ==

'''Publish'''

The Publishing module is where you will save your draft, preview your post, and [http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts/new-post-screen/#publish Publish] it when you are ready. When you are finished constructing your post and saving your draft you will click the Publish button located in the bottom right corner of your Publish module.

'''Edit a Published Post'''

You can always go back and [http://en.support.wordpress.com/editors/ edit] that post later by clicking the edit link at the bottom of the post on your homepage, or by clicking on the Post tab in your dashboard then clicking on All Posts. This will bring you to the screen where all of your published posts are displayed. You can click on the edit link next to the post you wish to edit. Once you click on the edit button it will bring you back to the edit screen for that post which will now say Edit post at the top instead of Add New. You will edit the post the same way you constructed your post. When you are finished making changes you will click on the Update button which is located in the bottom right corner where the Publish button use to be in your Publish module.

== References ==

1. "Support: writing & editing-Posts." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

2. "Support: Dashboard." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

3. "Support: Modules." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

4. "Support: Add media." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

5. "Support: Publish." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

6. "Support: Editors." WordPress Web. 3 April, 2013

Categorizing Posts

2013-04-04T01:13:38Z

CandiceBarca: /* References */

'''Posts'''

Posts are considered the main content of a blog. [http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts Posts] are marked by date showing the most recent post at the top of your main blog page. By putting posts in reverse chronological order it will help readers find the most current information on your blog. The date of your post is also found in the URL for that post. Posts can be found in the RSS feed, widgets, archives, recent posts and categories. In the reading settings you can control how many posts you would like to display on your home page. Your posts will always be linked to the date in which you published it, unlike pages which are not displayed with a date, category, or tag.

== Constructing a New Post ==

'''How to Add a new Post'''

After signing in to WordPress, go to your [http://en.support.wordpress.com/dashboard Dashboard]. Once you are on your Dashboard you will see tabs on the left side of the screen, go to the Posts tab which will open up other options, click on Add New. This will open up the editing screen where you can chose the title of your post, write the content of the post and add links or photos to your post.

'''Modules'''

The [http://en.support.wordpress.com/modules/ modules] you will use most when constructing a post are the Title module, Editor module and the Publish module. Once you chose a title for your post and enter it in the Title module it will automatically create a URL for that post. In the Editor module you will type in the content of your post. You can edit the content similar to how you edit text in Microsoft Word. The icons found at the top of the Editor module can all be displayed by clicking the kitchen sink icon. These icons will help you format the post. The chain link and unlink symbol will help you create a hyperlink, or unlink a hyperlink.The Publish module is where you will save your draft and publish it when you are ready. It is also where you can later edit and update that post.

'''Add Media'''

The [http://en.support.wordpress.com/add-media/ Add Media] button right above the Editor module is where you can upload photos or files to place in your post. Once a photo appears in your post you can click on it and in the top right corner of the photo a delete option or an edit option will be displayed. The edit option will allow you to format how or where the photo appears in your text. Once you have your post formatted the way you want it you are ready to move on to the Publish module.

== Publishing a Post ==

'''Publish'''

The Publishing module is where you will save your draft, preview your post, and [http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts/new-post-screen/#publish Publish] it when you are ready. When you are finished constructing your post and saving your draft you will click the Publish button located in the bottom right corner of your Publish module.

'''Edit a Published Post'''

You can always go back and [http://en.support.wordpress.com/editors/ edit] that post later by clicking the edit link at the bottom of the post on your homepage, or by clicking on the Post tab in your dashboard then clicking on All Posts. This will bring you to the screen where all of your published posts are displayed. You can click on the edit link next to the post you wish to edit. Once you click on the edit button it will bring you back to the edit screen for that post which will now say Edit post at the top instead of Add New. You will edit the post the same way you constructed your post. When you are finished making changes you will click on the Update button which is located in the bottom right corner where the Publish button use to be in your Publish module.

== External Links ==

http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts

http://en.support.wordpress.com/dashboard

http://en.support.wordpress.com/modules

http://en.support.wordpress.com/add-media

http://en.support.wordpress.com/posts/new-post-screen/#publish

http://en.support.wordpress.com/editors/

== References ==

1. "Support: writing & editing-Posts." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013

2. "Support: Dashboard." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013

3. "Support: Modules." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013

4. "Support: Add media." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013

5. "Support: Publish." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013

6. "Support: Editors." Worpress Web. 3 April, 2013