by Carol Gioia

Created on: April 03, 2009

A Helium writer derives satisfaction from producing a thoroughly developed article. Besides the obvious pride in a job well done, he could potentially garner a higher rank in the rating system, or his article could possibly be featured on the front page, which would result in a wider reading audience.

A thoroughly developed article can provide monetary benefits for the writer. There is up-front payment, continuous ad revenue and the possibility of the article being chosen as a stock content purchase by a publisher.

Helium, like all publishing venues, has specific rules for submission outlined in the Helium User Guidelines, so the first advice for members submitting articles to the site is to peruse the guidelines and adhere to the Helium writing standards.

Articles are written to inform or entertain. Whether a writer is presenting a "How to.." piece or a memoir of a personal experience, well-developed articles of any genre contain particular consistent components:

* Purposeful Content

* Correlation to the Title

* Proper Formatting

* Good Introduction

* Smooth Flow of Sequence

* Well-defined Conclusion

Purposeful Content

An article is thoroughly developed when the content delivers the premise of the title.

If the writer wants to impart information, he will begin with comprehensive research and verification of facts. If the article is intended to demonstrate life lessons through personal experience, the writer will include a life-changing component or lessons learned. The success of a well-developed article is evident when the reader is touched by the content, can relate to what is said or goes away better informed. Purposeful content introduces an idea, develops it in a way the reader can identify with, and concludes in a way that leaves the reader satisfied.

Correlation to the Title

One of the keys to achieving a well-developed article is understanding the title. If the article does not live up to the promise in the title, no matter how proficient the writing content, it will not be considered well-developed by the reader. For example: If the title is, "How to shovel snow," a well-researched and presented article on the history of the shovel will not satisfy a reader who is looking for efficient tips on snow removal. Ensure the content of the article focuses on the subject suggested by the title.

Proper Formatting

A short introductory paragraph, additional paragraphs of four or fine lines each, expanding on the subject, and a brief concluding paragraph, all with double spacing

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