Blogging for dummies - Susannah Gardner

In a fog about blogs? Read this book and it all becomes clear!

Millions of people posted a blog entry this morning. They're promoting products, espousing causes, discussing their lives, and sharing tips on everything from getting the laundry clean to getting their candidate elected. Join the fun! Here's how to choose and use blogging software, pick a topic, add photos, attract readers, and keep your blog interesting.

• Blog basics
  find out what defines a blog and what type of blog best suits your purpose




• What you say
  learn how to create appealing content and what you don't want to put in your blog




• Compare tools
  understand the pros and cons of hosted services and see what Blogger, WordPress, and other tools offer




• When smaller is better
  explore microblogging, including Twitter® and Tumblr




• Speak up
  try your hand at podcasting or video blogging




• Socialize your blog
  boost readership with a presence on social networking sites




• Blogging for dollars
  see how to put ads on your blog or in your RSS feed, seek sponsorships, and maintain a business blog




• Know your visitors
  learn to collect and analyze statistics on who's visiting your site, when, and for how long

Open the book and find:

• Tips for choosing a topic




• How to connect with your readers through comments




• Advice on blogging ethics




• A comparison of leading blogging software




• Help managing routine blog tasks




• Hints for conquering writer's block




• Ways to boost readership




• Why RSS feeds are a great idea




• Cool widgets, gadgets, and themes to customize your blog

Learn to:

• Use the latest versions of Blogger and WordPress®




• Recognize what goes into an effective blog




• Find your niche in the blogosphere




• Build an audience and make money from your blog