Whether they freelance, blog or produce other written content, writers may find themselves taking on projects on a topic they know nothing about. This may appear to be a really difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be. A few simple steps can have you producing pieces that speak with authority.
Take a minute to centre yourself
It’s not uncommon to feel a bit panicked if you find yourself having to write a piece about a topic you are not familiar with. Take a few minutes to relax, as having a calm mind will make the process go a lot more smoothly.
Identify keywords and concepts
Before you begin your search for information on a topic, it can save a lot of time if you break it down into concepts and then find the keywords that are associated with them. This starts with taking the subject matter and distilling it to its most basic level.
Once you have searched for information using these keywords, repeat the process using their synonyms and variations of spelling. This tends to provide the widest amount of information.
Research and learn
Now that you have your keywords and feel ready, the next step is doing your preliminary research. There’s a wealth of websites online, and you can find ones that focus on almost any topic. Some writers choose to use scholarly journals produced by professional associations, while others utilize industry or hobby-specific websites.
Reach out to a professional
As professionals in a field are often subject matter experts, it can make sense to reach out to one with questions. They may be happy to share their knowledge and can also help an author connect with others who will be able to supply them with useful information.
Write with authority
Once you feel you have thoroughly researched the topic at hand and you have all the information you need, it’s time to start writing. The goal is to both engage and inform the reader, and this starts with adopting an authoritative tone.
Allow your emotional authenticity to shine through
An important aspect of preparing an authoritative piece is emotional authenticity. Don’t just relate a series of facts – express feelings and emotions.
Using examples from real life can be helpful, as they allow the reader to connect with what’s being said on a deeper level, which creates a sense of engagement. This also makes a piece more relatable.
Editing matters
When it comes to writing, editing and refining is a vital part of the creative process. This can be especially true when it’s a subject area you don’t necessarily know about. This is another time when it can be really helpful to speak to a subject matter expert. Ask them to review your work and provide any feedback they feel will be useful.
Remember that, although it may be hard to hear, the person editing your work is trying to help you be the best writer you can be – it’s not personal.
Accuracy is important
If you’re preparing an item that includes a range of facts and figures, double and even triple review them to make sure they are accurate. Check the dates, make sure they are recent and cross-verify by using reputable sources.
Proofread for perfection
Before you consider your project complete, make sure to proofread it carefully. It’s a good idea to walk away for a little while, do something else and come back to what you’re working on with a fresh eye. You’ll be better able to spot mistakes, and it’s a good tip to read it out loud, as this can help to make sure you don’t miss any while you clarify and polish.
Give yourself a pat on the back
Whether you write for fun, profit or to help others, once an article or other piece is finished, it can bring a real sense of accomplishment. Enjoy your success – you’ve earned it
As a writer, you may find yourself working on all sorts of projects, ranging from topics you are passionate about to ones you know nothing about. Even if you have no previous knowledge about a topic, you can still produce articles that speak with authority.