Article Writing Tips for Non-Writers

Types of Articles: What Works Best for Non‑Writers

When you’re just starting out and don’t yet feel like a seasoned author, stick to the two easiest article formats that still drive sales: listicles and how‑to guides. They let you pack useful information into a clear, bite‑size structure, which readers love and search engines favor.

Listicles break a topic into discrete, numbered points. You can create a simple outline by jotting down the items first, then expand each one with a sentence or two. Because the framework is already set, you spend less time deciding what to write next. An example of a listicle I’ll be drafting is “4 Secrets of the Super Affiliates.” In that post I’ll reveal the four habits that top earners use to boost their commissions, and under each bullet I’ll explain exactly how readers can adopt the same tactics to grow their own affiliate revenue.

How‑to articles walk the reader through a process step by step. This format is especially useful if you sell a tangible product or a service that involves a series of actions. Take my friend Mac, who sells metal polish. He can publish a piece titled “How to Get a Shiny Car Finish with Metal Polish.” Inside, he would list each step - preparing the surface, applying the polish with a soft lint‑free cloth, and finishing with a towel - providing a clear roadmap that turns a simple product into a solution. Readers who follow the steps are more likely to buy because they see real value and a path to success.

Both formats lend themselves to SEO. Search queries often include “how to” or “list of,” and search engines reward content that matches those intentions. By choosing either a list or a how‑to guide, you’ll increase your chances of appearing in those featured snippets or top rankings, which drives more traffic and, ultimately, more sales.

When you pick a format, keep the audience in mind. If you’re targeting beginners, keep the language simple and the steps concrete. If you’re addressing experts, include a few advanced tips or industry insights to keep them engaged. Either way, the goal is to give the reader a clear takeaway that feels valuable and actionable.

Another benefit of these formats is their shareability. Listicles naturally invite readers to click “share” because the format feels digestible. A how‑to article with a handy checklist or a visual step‑by‑step guide can be bookmarked, saved, or linked to by others who need the same solution. That viral potential turns your content into a sales engine that keeps working long after you’ve published it.

In short, start with lists or how‑to guides. They’re low‑effort, high‑impact, and they resonate with both readers and search engines. Once you get comfortable, you can experiment with more narrative or interview styles, but these two foundations will get you far.

Planning and Writing: From Outline to Polished Post

The first rule is to start with a solid outline before you open your document. For a listicle, write down the headline, the main title, and the number of points you’ll cover. Then, sketch a one‑sentence description for each point. For a how‑to article, map out the steps in order, making sure no step is missing. If a step seems ambiguous, test it yourself or ask a friend to try it, then tweak until it works perfectly.

Once you have the skeleton, choose a headline that signals the benefit and uses numbers or power words. Options include “5 Ways to Double Your Email List in 30 Days,” “How to Build a Winning Landing Page,” or “7 Quick Fixes for Low‑Converting Blog Posts.” A good headline grabs attention and tells the reader exactly what they’ll gain.

Now write the body. Stick to short sentences and paragraphs. Online readers skim, so each paragraph should convey a single idea. Use the active voice and keep verbs strong. For example, “Apply a thin coat of polish, then let it dry for ten minutes,” is clearer than “A thin coat of polish should be applied and left to dry for ten minutes.” Mixing sentence length keeps the flow natural.

Keep your word count between 500 and 750 words. That length feels substantial enough to cover the topic but short enough that a reader will finish without fatigue. If you need to add extra details, consider creating a downloadable PDF or a short video that expands on the article’s points.

When you write the body, refer back to your outline. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that echoes one of the main points. Then add supporting details - data, anecdotes, or examples. For instance, if you’re explaining how to clean a car’s paint, show a before/after photo or a quick tip like “don’t use a towel that’s full of lint.” This keeps the reader engaged and reinforces your credibility.

After drafting, take a break before revising. A fresh set of eyes will catch awkward phrasing, repetition, and gaps. Look for ways to tighten the prose - remove filler words, combine run‑on sentences, and swap vague verbs for specific ones. Check each paragraph for a clear purpose and eliminate anything that doesn’t move the reader toward the call‑to‑action (CTA).

The CTA should be explicit. Whether you’re nudging readers to download a free ebook, sign up for a newsletter, or purchase a product, the CTA should stand out. Use action words like “Get your free copy,” “Start your trial,” or “Claim the offer now.” Place it after the final paragraph so that the reader’s attention is already focused on your article’s main point.

Lastly, add an author bio and a short resource box. The bio establishes your expertise, while the resource box can promote a related product or service. Keep the bio to one or two sentences, and the box to a single paragraph that includes a link to your website or a landing page.

Publishing, Distribution, and Final Touches

Once your article is ready, decide how you’ll get it in front of people. The first option is to reach out to editors of online magazines or industry blogs that accept guest posts. Find the contact email, personalize it, and include a short summary of the article’s angle. Instead of attaching the file, paste the article into the body of the email; many editors prefer that format because it’s easier to read instantly.

Research the publication’s style guide before you send anything. Check for preferred word count, formatting rules, or specific keyword guidelines. Ignoring these details can lead to rejection, so take the time now to match their expectations. Most sites also list the topics they’re looking for, which can help you tailor your pitch.

The second route is article directories. These are aggregators that publish your content on a variety of sites, often with a backlink to your website. Below are five reputable directories you might consider. Check each one’s submission policy and ensure they’re still active.