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The guidelines for writing magazine quality articles for Helium are familiar; four hundred to fifteen hundred word criteria, good grammar, spelling and punctuation, matching the content to the title, the list goes on. Helium.com is a site promoting knowledge and reliable information, and to be an asset to Helium as writers, we strive to follow the rules and adhere scrupulously to the guidelines.

In addition to the rules about what to do, there are a few things we should avoid in order to enhance our article writing on Helium. To reinforce what to do, let us examine what 'not' to do:

* Do not present your article in one huge block of print

Short paragraphs of four or five lines are the suggested format for Helium articles. A 400 to 1500 group of words in one huge block of print will tax the attention span of any reader. Be sure to double space between paragraphs to increase ease of reading and ensure an advantage in ratings.

* Do not capitalize words or groups of words

Capitalization in internet writing is equivalent to verbally shouting. If emphasis is necessary, using quotes is the preferable method. During rating sessions, articles containing capitalized sections will not do well.

* Do not present solitary lists of information

One liners are not articles, nor is a list. Too often, in response to a specific title, the writer will compile a numerical list. A proficient writer will be able to present his information in essay form in order that his article might be an asset to Helium and his own portfolio of work.

* Do not be too specific and personal

Even when writing a reflection piece, a testimony or memoir, keep the article interesting to the reader. While first hand experience is the point of the article, an effort should be made to use discretion when relating personal details, and to incorporate enough universal experience and information to appeal to any reader.

* Do not go on a rant

It is easy to cross the line from opinion to rant, especially if one is passionate about the subject. Debate articles are especially vulnerable to such writing behavior. Be aware of keeping a respectful attitude and tone in regard to opposing viewpoints.

* Do not self promote

All identifying information should be excluded from your writing. Helium articles are supposed to be rated anonymously, and no matter how well written, any type of self promotion or revealing of identity will disqualify your article from meeting Helium standards of excellence.

* Do not be crude

All profanity and questionable or crudely explicit material is disallowed in Helium articles. A good writer does not have to resort to such distasteful, attention getting tactics.

* Do not plagarize

Copying another writer's work, or original ideas, is flagrant plagiarism. When quoting another's work, be sure to give credit, by either incorporating the source into the article, or citing the source at the end of the article.

* Do not go "off topic"

It is all too easy to go off on a tangent on a subject totally unrelated to the title you are addressing in your article. It is confusing and disappointing to the reader to expect one topic and find an unrelated subject at hand. No matter how well we write, if we do not deliver what is promised in the title, we have not achieved our goal.

After you have insured your article meets Helium guidelines and standards, and you have not committed any of the "don't" violations to writing a good Helium article, there is only one more item to consider.

"Do" end your article on a positive note, in order to insure your reader will go away feeling good about your writing and happy he took the time to read what you have to share.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
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