Types of Online Writing

The vast majority of most informational websites are written by Web writers. These writers follow a certain format for writing their content. If you want to begin your writing career as a freelance writer, you may want to start writing for the Web. Using your talent or your passion to earn money or just to satisfy a hunger to put your thoughts to life can be done by become a Web writer. There are two main types of online writing that cover a very broad range of other sub-types of writing. Both copywriting and Web content writing have been wrongly thought of as the same thing. Although they can be used together, there are certainly major differences that distinguish the two.

Web Content. Web content can also be described as article writing. Generally, this type of writing is designed to inform, educate and to entertain at the same time. This type makes up the majority of content you find on websites such as Suite101, eHow and About.com, that often includes how-to articles, product reviews, interviews and information on newly developing things and ideas around the world. Blogger and Wordpress are two blogging sites that freelancers can use to input their web content ideas. A lot of blog writing can fit into this category, such as content that is conversational, opinionated and controversial.

Copywriting. Copywriting is the use of words to promote or persuade. Whereas Web content is usually informational, copywriting is more commonly persuasive. This type of writing can be as overt as having a webpage dedicated to attracting people to a company, or as subtle as an “About Us” section on a website. Many copywriters are employees of their companies they write copy for. Other examples of copywriting include the text on a company’s website aside from the blog, sales pages, newsletter copy, ad copy, press releases, reports and business and marketing plans.

If you are a freelance writer looking for clients, it’s always a good idea to dive into each type of writing and get a feel for it. Then, you can put a portfolio together for prospective clients to see your writing expertise. You can put your portfolio together by dividing your pieces by types of writing. You may have more experience and more to show in certain areas, but trying each type will help you not only develop a portfolio but cultivate your skills, as well.