Maybe you run an oral health blog, a fashion magazine, or even a sci-fi news site. Whatever your blog niche, editing is a huge part of your job. Your readers, as well as search engines, expect content that is full of value and free from errors. The good news is you can use some simple techniques to become a better blog editor so that your content meets the expectations. 

Read Your Content Aloud 

When you read out loud, it brings errors to your attention. You’ll detect awkward sentences or typos. Reading your piece out loud also allows you to get a better feel for paragraph structure and the flow of the post overall. 

To properly do this, read at a comfortable pace- don’t just speed through your work. Give your piece the same attention that you would if someone else were reading it to you. Also, don’t forget to consider how it sounds in the context of your blog. Pay attention to slang, jargon, and other elements that may be unique to your content. 

Take a Break After Writing  

This is more than just an excuse for a snack break! After you finish writing, take a few minutes away from your computer. Step away from your work, get some fresh air and clear your head a bit. When you come back to start editing, you’ll be more focused and less likely to miss errors in the text. 

Do something non-screen related, like drinking tea or taking a walk. If you can’t step away from your computer entirely, at least take the time to look away from the screen and think about something else for a few minutes. For example, focus on your breathing for a few minutes. Also, avoid checking social media during the break as otherwise, procrastination may set in.

Use Technology

It’s perhaps easier than ever to become a better blog editor thanks to the technology available. Tools like Grammarly and Hemingway identify typos, grammar mistakes, and other issues with your content. You can even use Google Docs as an online editor, as it comes with its own suite of tools including spell check.

Take the time to learn how such tools work. Pay attention to any features that may be unique to the platform you are using as these can often help streamline the editing process. 

Fact Check

Editing is no longer just about grammar and punctuation. It’s also about accuracy by making sure any facts or figures in your post are accurate. Take the time to do a bit of research on any topics you may be discussing, and double-check that any quotes or statistics referenced are correct.

To properly fact-check, use trusted sources such as academic journals, or government websites. If you are unsure of a source’s accuracy, fact-check it against another source. Also, note the date any sources were published so readers know if the information is still relevant. 

Being a better blog editor is a matter of practice and patience. Follow the tips outlined above, and you’ll be on your way to producing error-free content that your readers can enjoy by ensuring that each post meets strict standards of quality. 

Originally posted on February 13, 2023 @ 12:58 am