Writing for the World Wide Web

Differences between Printed Essays and Web Pages Size and diversity of the potential audience Possibilities of hypertext

Writing for a World-Wide Audience Make your Website attract readers Provide all necessary information so readers understand your content.

HYPERTEXT HYPERTEXT is “non-sequential writing--text that branches and allows choices to the reader, best read at an interactive screen. Theodor H. Nelson

Characteristics of Hypertext Hypertext allows readers to Choose their own reading path by linking to other parts of the document Connect to other documents by the same and other authors.

Characteristics of Hypertext Hypertext also allows writers to incorporate: color graphics multimedia sound and video clips animations

A Traditional Linear Organizational Pattern IntroductionBodyConclusion

A Hypertextual Webbed Organizational Pattern Home Page Linked Page Links

Possible Disadvantages of Hypertextual Reading Non-linear format may create confusion or misunderstanding. May discourage close-reading in favor of skimming. May weaken understanding.

Advantages of Hypertextual Reading Can liberate readers by allowing them to choose their own reading paths Encourages readers to engage interactively with the text Offers new opportunities for writers

Inverted Pyramid Organizational Pattern Begin by stating your conclusion Continue by developing your most important support material End by providing background information

The Inverted Pyramid The advantage is that even if readers click off of your site and stop reading, they will have read the most important content.

Factors to consider when writing for the Web: What is my specific purpose for writing? Who is my target audience?

A Web-Writing Style Sheet

Four Factors You Must Consider as a Writer for the Web Content Navigation Graphics Style (Presentation)

Content Carefully plan content by designing a storyboard. Use an Inverted Pyramid organizational pattern Reduce your overall content by at least 50% Develop only one idea per paragraph Break long paragraphs into bulleted lists

More about Content Avoid long, multi-clause sentences. Use vivid verbs in the active voice. Avoid jargon which may not be understandable to non-local readers. Print out your pages and proofread carefully before uploading to the web.

Navigation Allow your reader as much flexibility as possible in reading your site. Identify links. Make every link destination specific. Make external links relevant. Create internal links which help readers move around within your site. Keep your links current!

Graphics Graphics must be relevant to the content of your site. Reduce resolution and file size. Use colors in moderation and in visually appealing combinations. Use animated graphics sparingly.

Stylistic Errors to Avoid Avoid bleeding edge technology. Avoid “eye-candy.” Avoid clutter. Avoid overusing frames.