by Susan Quilty

Created on: July 12, 2009

Choosing the right point of view in a knowledge article can make the difference between a high ranking article and one that sinks like a stone.

An article's point of view (POV) refers to whether it is written in first, second, or third person. The point of view sets the tone for an article. It also conveys a certain level of formality in the writing. The Helium title will often give an idea about which point of view will work best.

Lets look at what defines each point of view and when each is appropriate at Helium:

* First Person - Uses "I, me, and my".

Written from the author's own perspective, this POV and is often considered to be the most casual. Many writers are most comfortable when writing in the first person. Yet, first person is arguably the most overused, and often misused, POV on Helium.

First person is the most appropriate POV when reflecting on personal experiences. It can also be used for writing reviews or editorials, though second or third person will sound more professional. First person is appropriate in creative writing.

* Second Person - No "I, me, or my", but does use "you and your".

This POV puts the reader front and center. When writing in second person, "I, me, and my" are out, but it's fine to use the words "you or your". Here is a sentence written in second person, "When writing a how-to article, you may choose to write in second person."

The second person point of view sounds more professional than the first person, but still keeps a personal, casual tone. This POV works well for instructional articles (including how-to's) and reviews. By using second person, you can draw the reader into your article and give the impression of speaking directly to him.

* Third Person - No "I, me, my, you, or your".

Readers know that each article is written by an actual person and that any opinions given are those of the author. It is possible to draw from personal experiences while still writing in the third person. It may seem difficult to avoid using both "I, me, and my" as well as "you and your" forms. However, practice will make it easier to find the right words without relying on personal experiences or falling back on "I, me, and my".

As the most formal and professional POV, third person is preferred for most of the knowledge articles on Helium. Unless writing in memoirs or reflections, or for an article that specifically asks for the story of a personal experience, always try to write knowledge articles in the third person.

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