How to Write a Clear Article

4 Steps to a Clearly Written Article  

Nothing is more frustrating than an article that is difficult to understand. Here are 4 simple steps that will help you to write a focused article that will allow your readers to move from one sentence to the next and follow your ideas without any misunderstanding.  

One thing you can do to write a clear and coherent article is stick to the point. Everything you say must support the main point. If your main point is that “The Godfather” is the greatest movie of all time don’t waiver and complain that you thought the garden scene was too long. This would be a distraction and it may lead to confusion.  

Another thing you can do to write a clear and coherent article is to explain your support. For example, stating that “The Godfather was well directed and had many fine actors” might support your opinion that you think “The Godfather” is a great movie but you haven’t really explained your support enough to sway the reader. If you say that it was directed by one of the world’s most highly acclaimed directors, and you named all of the famous stars, and you mentioned all of the awards it received, and you included a few quotes from the world’s most highly respected film critics, the reader is more likely to agree that you have a case. 

Another way to avoid confusion is to remind your readers of your opinion. As your readers move from one sentence to the next, they like to be reminded of your opinion of the topic. An easy way to do this is to repeat the exact (or similar) words of the opinion for each item of support. For example, in this article, the first sentence in each supporting paragraph serves to remind the reader of the main idea that was presented in the opening paragraph.  

Another way to ensure that you’re understood is to include transitions. An article without transitions lacks coherence. It clunks along from one idea to the next. It can be very confusing to read. We can help the reader move from one sentence to the next by adding transitions.  Transitions are used to add an idea, to provide an example, to make a comparison and/or to signal the approach of the ending. Words and phrases like also, another, for instance, for example, however, on the other hand, as a result, therefore, and in conclusion are all transitions. Carefully placed they will help your reader understand exactly what you’re saying. 

Follow these steps and you will be well on your way toward producing clearly written articles that your readers will be able to follow and understand.

About the Author  

RC Bonay is an engineer with a passion for writing and drawing. He started reading comic books at an early age and soon discovered he had a flair for telling stories of his own. As he grew, he dreamed of following in the footsteps of comic book legend, Stan Lee. His passion ebbed and his dream faded as it became necessary to pursue a more traditional lifestyle in order to raise his growing family. The dream was rekindled as the youngest of his four children blossomed into young adulthood. 

RC’s vision is best summed up by his mottos; 

“The world would be a better place if we all just learned to draw.” 

“Learn from the best, forget it all, and just write.”