by D. Victor

Created on: January 14, 2009   Last Updated: December 31, 2009

It is unlikely, though not impossible, that you can write a proper, robust article for most topics on Helium in less than 400 words. On the other hand, you are clearly not required to write a dissertation or thesis either. Reading from a monitor can be taxing on the eyes, so being too long is somewhat criminal. Generally, Helium articles should not be more than 1500 words long. There are several reasons for word count and length being crucial to Helium articles.

Content

We were taught that a proper article or essay has an introduction, body and conclusion. Even though some rules are adjusted for web-writing, a similar principle applies. Well structured articles follow this format. When Helium had the 200-word minimum, there were several articles that didn't follow this principle. Articles appeared as "thoughts for the day".

Meeting the word minimum will ensure that writers put a little more effort and thought into what they write. Web-readers want to find sufficient content in an article. That the attempt to meet or exceed the word-minimum sometimes encourages article padding is an unfortunate and unintended effect.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

The optimal length for a good SEO article is between 500 and 700 words. SEO writing ensures that your article has a better chance of being found. Paying attention to the volume and structure of your article may be the difference between having a low Helium Revenue Share or a healthy one.

Relevance

Web-readers do not often like to read dissertations. This is not because long articles are inherently boring. Articles that are too long are usually off-topic, rambling or verbose. Web readers want to be informed or entertain within a short window. Their purpose is not to indulge your love of words.

Article longevity

Helium deletes articles that are below the minimum word count. This applies to articles that transition from "Marketplace" as well (even though the Publisher required a minimum of 350 words). If you don't pay sufficient attention to your article length, you may find that your articles disappear months after you post them.

Perspective

Whether an article is too short or too long depends on the title scope. Helium articles that are too short- in this context- seem like lazy attempts that may not well-researched or thought out. Those that are too long sometimes tax the mind by including much about nothing. Helium wants to be a forum for writers and experts. Experts have perspective and clarity on subjects

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