by D. Victor

Created on: January 07, 2009   Last Updated: July 30, 2010

A "readable" Helium article is easy on the mind, easy on the eyes and easy on the emotions. After all, web readers seem particularly fond of the path of least resistance. Where writing on Helium is concerned, this knowledge is very relevant. The concept of readability is premised on some basic writing principles. Further to that, a Helium article needs to be web-savvy.

Formatting

No one wants to read the "wall of text", especially in a Helium article. Whether I'm reading or rating an article on Helium, I prefer to see spaces between paragraphs. The paragraph itself should not be too long. Apart from this being easier on the eye, it reinforces the organisation and structure of the article. The basics - such as spaces after punctuation marks - must be adhered to. Generally, paragraphs should not exceed 100 words in a readable article.

Logical structure or organisation

Formatting reinforces the logical structure and organisation of an article. However, you can adjust your paragraph length in an arbitrary manner that divides connected ideas and makes it harder to follow the arguments made. Intentionally using more than two main ideas within the same paragraph has this effect as well. It is generally a good idea to address your main idea for the following paragraph with a topic sentence or heading. Having a "thesis statement" in your first paragraph would add to the appearance of structure and purpose.

Informal but professional

It is alright (and even necessary) to be informal with your web writing. You can address your reader directly; unlike expository forms of writing. However, you should not use your Helium article as a journal or diary, unless you're writing a testimonial. Even testimonials would require some panache and a "third eye" to be really good. Finding the right balance and tone for your Helium articles makes it easy on the mind and emotions.

Content

There is a myth that longer articles are inherently boring. Actually, whether an article is too long or not depends on whether or not it sustains the interest of the reader. Typically, I thought meetings are too long. However, there were some meetings that were longer, but I wanted it to continue. If you make your content interesting, the reader will be compelled to read on by the force of your content. Therefore, you should focus on being relevant, stylish and informative.

Concise

I recall a Helium member stating that Helium articles should be about 750 words. He felt that if there is less to write, then

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