If you're like me, then the major problem is finding the topic that will have editors chortling with glee because he knows his readers will love it. The actual writing of the article holds no fears; it's just finding the right topic and one that's going to be a winner. So here are a few tips on capturing those elusive ideas.
Perhaps the first and easiest thing you should do is pick up the nearest newspaper and read the headlines. If you think this sounds just a little too down-to-earth - think again. There are many best-selling articles that have been jump started into existence by a newspaper headline.
Here are a couple of headlines I came across whilst writing this:
'Laptop Thief Has Bank Details of 15,000 policemen.'
This could start you thinking about laptop security and how you can best protect your data from being compromised. You could write an article on the various methods of blocking viruses and keeping out SPAM. How about an article on the growing trend of hi-tech theft, or the use of the internet and computers by the criminal fraternity? What steps are the banks taking to prevent fraud and identity theft?
'A Monster Following For Nessie.'
Apparently, in this news item, the Loch Ness monster was voted the most famous Scot! This could lead to articles on famous mythical creatures. Is there any basis in fact for them? Were there really flying dragons in Wales, etc? What about an article on present day monsters? Did you know that there are some unbelievably bizarre creatures all over the world that would make fascinating reading? How about how the tourist trade capitalizes on myths and monsters, with examples of some wacky souveniers?
Often a story will grab your interest about some subject you've never heard of before, or about one that has been lurking in the back of your mind for a while and now is the time to follow it through.
Other ways to find new topics is to visit the library or a good bookshop and browse the titles. Go to sections you are unfamiliar with and see what titles will jump start your imagination and produce some exciting and informative ideas. Pick up a magazine on a topic that you are vaguely interested in and read it just for fun. Several ideas may jump out at you whilst you're reading. Your mind makes associations and sees things in new ways when it's relaxed by reading.
Keep a look out when you're on a shopping spree. There are always plenty of items for sale you've never noticed before, and some of them are fads.
Fads are good to write about because they tie into the current collective consciousness and therefore people are interested in reading about them. Food items, clothes, gadgets, furniture, gardening, pets - almost any consumer section is prone to fads and fashions at some time.
Don't be afraid to let your mind wander. Just put your mind into free fall and you will most likely end up with several new topics you wouldn't have dreamt pf before. You find yourself enthusiastic about writing your new article and may even end up with a list of new topics that will keep you busy for several few weeks!
Don't be afraid to have a go at a new idea or topic. There is a huge amount of information available to you on any subject you care to mention, especially on the Internet.
Read as much as you can, take notes, talk to people who know the subject you're interested in, and you will soon be turning out articles that editors will grab with alacrity.
------
Mervyn Love writes on several topics including creative writing. His website http://www.WritersReign.co.uk has a mind-boggling array of resources, articles and links to keep any writer happy for hours. Subscribe to the WritersReign Article Writing course here: http://www.writersreign.co.uk/WRac.html
