One frequent question among bloggers is how long the post should be. I usually answer this the same way: It should be as long as it takes to convey the thought or idea.
There’s no set limit. Overall, usually the 400-600 word range is a good place to be. It’s enough space to thoroughly explain an idea, and not too long for most readers. Not every post needs to be in that range, however. For instance, this one is clocking in below 400.
You don’t have to write long every time that you blog. Some can even be shorter than the 400, depending on your topic, and your approach. If you have an idea that can fully be expressed in 150 words, by all means, go for it.
Don’t Leave Your Readers Hanging
In journalism there’s something called the 5w’s (and H). It stands for who, what, when where, why and how. Make sure that your posts includes these things. You don’t want to leave your readers hanging. One good example of a blogger who writes short, but impacting posts is Seth Godin.
Sometimes his work is as short as a couple sentences. But he always leaves you with a complete thought.
When You Write Long, Keep Your Readers In Mind
If you’re going to write long, make sure that you have something to say. Use shorter paragraphs that will help give your readers a sense of accomplishment. It helps them keep up a strong reading pace.
Lists, and subheads also make for scannable blog content. This helps move your readers from point A to point B. Long content does not have to read like a doctoral dissertation. Go ahead and throw a little personality into the mix. Your readers will thank you.
Make Sure You’re Posting Quality Blog Content
This is big. Short doesn’t mean sloppy. Long doesn’t mean boring. If you can’t write a quality blog, it’s time to rethink the approach.
Readers want quality blog content. Period.
Matt Brennan is a Chicago-area marketing writer and copy editor. He is also the author of Write Right-Sell Now.
