What types of online writing are there?

Online writing is a type of writing that is written and viewed on a computer, tablet, or a smart phone. Writing for digital media transforms traditional writing by adopting characteristics associated with oral communication. Integral elements of online writing are connectivity, fluidity, interactivity, and value.

Online is a unique form of writing which emphasizes interaction. Online media is not "static". This creates a unique experience to the user that differs from analog media.

Types of Online Writing

There are various types of online writing that are used. Some of these types of online writing include:

• Blogging
• Publishing
• Social Media and Microblogging

Publishing refers to the act of making information available to the public. In regards to online writing, this would mean that information is published to an online source, such as a website or e-publication.

Social media is defined by Oxford dictionary as "websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social networking." When social media is mentioned, Twitter and Facebook are typically the first two websites that come to mind. While both of these websites are perfect examples of social media, there are social media networks geared specifically towards writers such as Writers Network, Goodreads, and Writertopia.

Microblogging is a form of social media where posts are extremely short. Currently, the most popular microblogging platform is Twitter, although there are other options available such as Tumblr, and Plurk. Some consider microblogging random "short bursts of text", however it is better to think of it as a group of short conversations. Users are able to converse back and forth with one another, as well as grouping content by the use of hashtags.

Blogging

Personal Blogging

Personal Blogging is a weblog that is an ongoing commentary or diary written by an individual. This type of blog allows you to write about any topic you want to write about. This blog is not limited, but it's a wide variety to the public. By using this blog, you can write your own style to your blog. People use personal blogs for online writing because they can communicate their knowledge to educate the public. However, this blog helps you see if blogging is comfortable for you.

Informational Blogging

Informational Blogging is similar to personal blogging, although the primary purpose is to inform. Personal blogs tend to be biased, while informational blogging is used to relay an unbiased message.

Social Media and Microblogging

There are various forms of online writing with social media and microblogging. Some of these include Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr.

Facebook is an online forum referred to as a social media site which allows members to create pages about themselves such as their hobbies, interests, education and job information to share with other members of Facebook. It also allows a person to create a friends list of other members of Facebook that one might know as well as create a page dedicated to a particular event and invite their friends. A person can also get on someone else's friend list and access information about people on their own friends list. It is a great way to share thoughts, exciting events and stories with other members of the Facebook community.