A Blog is a website created by an individual who posts frequent entries of personal commentary describing events, topics, suggestions, advice, video, and more. Most blogs are a representation of it’s authors interests and opinions regarding an endless range of information. Most blog entries are done in reverse-chronological order and are customized with unique color schemes and layouts. Additionally, many people use the term “blog” to refer to the actual process of posting content online.
Many blogs provide comments or news on a particular subject such as fashion, celebrity gossip, finance advice, sports, and more. Most blogs are of a personal diary function with posts of family related material.
Most typical blogs merge text, images, and links to relevant material related to the overall theme of the blog itself. Blogs have the ability for it’s readers to leave comments thus creating an interactive environment for all involved.
It’s very simple to create a blog. Below are instructions to creating your own blog. Have fun!
Questions:
1) Using your own words, describe what a blog is.
2) What are the most common types of blogs?
Application:
1) Find an example of each type of blog you listed above using Technorati (The leading blog-only search engine) or Google Blog Search.
Write down the website addresses for each blog you find.
2) Using Technorati find some topics/blogs that seem interesting to you.
Write down the website addresses for some of the blogs you like.
3) Create your own blog.
a) Here are the top blog platforms being used today.
www.blogger.com (free), www.wordpress.com (free)
www.typepad.com (paid) www.squarespace.com (paid)
The free blog platforms are a great starting point. You are able to get a blog active on the internet within a matter of minutes.
The paid blog platforms offer much more tools and design options for customizing your blog. Payments are monthly and are as low at $4.75/month.
My personal recommendation for your first blog would be to use www.wordpress.com.
b) Sign up with one of the blog platforms mentioned above. Each platform has a very intuitive instructions/help section. Make sure to refer to them frequently. They provide common methods for blogging online. Here’s Wordpress’ getting started tutorials – http://support.wordpress.com/getting-started/2/.
c) Below are recommend blog guidelines
1) Have a purpose to your blog, such as being an authority in your industry, or simply making your skills and experience known to the world.
2) Balance the blog writing between personal and business topics.
a) Personal – write about your hobbies, interests, and what you do with them. Many write about their favorite sports team, their kids activities, and their involvement with personal projects etc.
b) Business – write about your involvement within your career/industry. Comment on current events related to your work, post your opinions and suggestions.
3) Write frequently, at least weekly.
“I sincerely believe blogging can save America.” – John Jay Hooker
