by Barbara Whitlock

Created on: February 26, 2007   Last Updated: September 16, 2008

The business of writing overlaps metaphorically with the business of construction. Just as writers craft words, so builders construct a variety of edifices. The building process proves a valuable analogy for creating solid writing pieces.

The first step involves choosing a site. What you write must account for the venue you've chosen and the audience you're targeting. While each publishing option has its merits, our main focus remains writing for Helium. At Helium, knowledge primarily accumulates in the form of articles.

The word article connotes a small work of art, a composition, an independent, self-sustained piece that is apart of a larger publication. The Helium site collects knowledge in the form of articles. But a variety of building styles fills Helium's byways. Still, the structural element that provides the lynchpin holding this publishing center together remains knowledge. Make sure your article is built upon knowledge. Make sure your raw materials include an undergirding of solid fact.

Once you've thought about the site, then you need to make sure you have a good plan. Without a blue print, you risk ending up like that proverbial little pig, building a slap-dash house/article. Some writers outline extensively, while others just jot down the outline of their arguments. Find a style that works for you, but remember to give forethought to your structure.

Each paragraph becomes a structural wall: It should hold its own weight while collectively supporting the entire roof. You may create a simple four-walled structure; or, you may create a complex mansion. No matter what the dimensions, make sure each paragraph contains a mini-structure that holds together. For internet-writing, break longer paragraphs into smaller units. You may find yourself dividing a topic (wall) into more than one paragraph. Still, the sequence of paragraphs should be clear.

It's important to build your article from the foundations upwards, writing the core before developing the introduction and conclusion. I like to use the image of "rough construction" to delineate the next step in the writing process. A construction site is a messy place. Likewise, you should not "fuss" about writing something perfectly the first time. Build up the structure. You can beautify the writing later. Beautiful phraseology will not compensate for inadequate structural support, just as nice wallpaper will not hide inadequate support beams.

Next comes the introduction, the front door to your article edifice.

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