People don’t read, they scan. Yup, you simply can’t expect that all your visitors will take the pain of going through the entire content when the copy looks boring to the core.
We are not saying that the write-up is not properly researched or all that. Your write-up could be well-researched, but that does not mean that you will use a boring structure. As a content marketer, you need to do everything you can to ensure that the content looks engaging, and this can be done by making the content scannable. Try to following tips to do that –
Proper Order of Information
Content is nothing but information presented in a well-thought-out manner. So, when you present different details together, it has to follow a proper order. Can you place the conclusion at the beginning of the content? The answer is apparently no. Similarly, can you place the main message at the end of the content? Again the answer is no. So, you yourself can make out that how essential it is to offer information in content in a proper sequential manner.
Divide Content into Convenient Sections
If you break content into manageable sections, it will compel a reader to go through the entire content. Cluttered content is the biggest turn-off for a reader.
Provide a Headline for Each Section of Content
By doing so, you can enhance the overall appeal of the entire content. Relevant Headlines will not only ensure uninterrupted flow, but will also allow you to provide a better understanding of the topic to the readers.
Make Headings Scannable
Don’t write such headings that lead to swathing over multiple lines. You may also consider a parallel heading. Make it short, compact and catchy.
Use Appropriate Headings Style
If you fail to do so, your content may lose its appeal. Thus, you need to ensure that you use the relevant heading style to show the content structure.
Write Solo-Topic Paragraphs
If you mix more than one topic in one single paragraph, it may lead to utter confusion. In order to avoid such a situation, integrate one topic in a single paragraph & cover the other topic in other paragraphs. This will make your content appear neat & clean. Moreover, you will be able to make readers understand your perceptive or information in an improved way.
Write Short Paragraphs
Lengthy paragraphs may kill the interest of readers. If you really want to create a long-lasting impression on the minds of readers, keep paragraphs precise. However, that doesn’t mean that you offer them an unending series of short paragraphs. This will make the content appear too lengthy.
Integrate a List of Crucial Points at the End of Content
The best way to engage readers & convey your message to them in the least possible time is through offering them key points at the end of the content. When you do so, take care of the proper sequential order. Who knows, a quick glance on the crucial points may compel a reader to go through the entire content.
Make a list Scannable
If you offer them crucial points, you need to ensure that the list of those points appears scannable. For the same purpose, you may resort to parallel phrasing, concise words, etc. In addition to that, try avoiding repetitive words.
Avoid Integrating Too Many Links In A Single Paragraph
If you embed too many links in a single paragraph, it may irritate your target readers. Links generally cause distraction while reading content. So, you need to ensure you add only highly relevant links. If you keep links outside the paragraph, it will be a better approach to minimize distraction. Another way to manage links is by moving link references towards the end of the page or try to present them in a group by listing them.
Professional content writers are essential for creating scannable content.
Professional content writers are essential for creating scannable content that captivates readers and maximizes engagement. With the increasing volume of information available online, users tend to skim through content rather than read it. Expert Content writers skilled in making content scannable understand the importance of using concise headings, subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists to break down information into easily digestible chunks. They employ captivating introductions and relevant keywords to grab readers’ attention quickly. Professional writers also use formatting techniques like bolding, italics, and highlighting to emphasize key points. By employing these strategies, they ensure that the content is visually appealing and allows readers to quickly find the information they are looking for, ultimately enhancing the user experience and driving higher engagement.
Credit: Content Writing Shop UK