Mouse Will Play

Skipton Web Design & Development

When writing for the web, you need to consider:

People - the way people read text on screen is different from they way they read printed text. 79% of visitors scan the page instead of reading word-for-word. Reading from computer screens is 25% slower than from paper
Search engines - search engines can only read what you write - 'Mouse Will Play, Skipton Web Design' will rank much more highly than 'Mouse Will Play, We Create Magic'

The following tips will help point you in the right direction:

Break information into small chunks. Three small pages are better than one big one.
Use meaningful headings, e.g. 'Handmade Chocolates' instead of 'Melt in the Mouth Goodness'.
Use bulleted and numbered lists.
Write short, simple sentences. Convoluted writing and complex words are even harder to understand online.
Highlight keywords by using links, typeface variations or colour.
One idea per paragraph.
Use direct language. As opposed to 'when writing for the web it's best to use direct language'.
Start with the conclusion. Put the key information first and gradually expand into more details. The reader should get your point from the first paragraph.
Each page must be independent. Visitors can enter a site at any page and move between pages as they choose, so explain its topic without assumptions about the previous pages seen.
Web content should have 50% of the word count of its paper equivalent.
Gain visitors' trust. Don't use overly 'salesy' slogans and language. If possible, incorporate reviews and testimonials. Provide objective, helpful information and links to related sites.