Gone are the days of just putting words to paper (figuratively speaking), to my surprise there is a science to writing for the Internet. Jakob Nielsen was the name given as the pioneer in this reviewing of what actually works when writing for the web,for the really technical explanation feel free to use the link provided- . http://www.useit.com
Here are the words used to explain this concept and my translation of some of it.
1. The reader peruses the page in what is described as an “F” shape,so the information should be placed in such a way as to manage the information across the page.
Translation-Writing is about quality in the right places and not quantity all over the page.
2.The font used can affect readability.
Translation- Don’t go all crazy with the fonts and Sans Serfs fonts are our friends.
Okay I may be breaking rule #1
3.Contrast between the background and font is important.
Translation - "If you can read this and still want to,you are really good."
4.Remember the basic rules of reading.
Translation- Someone once said to me “Don’t let a little learning affect what you know to be true.”
We still read from left to right and with some sense of order,so creativity is fine but remember your audience.
5.Repetition
5.Repetition
5.Repetition is important.
6.Allow for breaks in the page.
Translation - Clutter is never pretty,not even on a web page.
7.Be a responsible “Digital Citizen”
Translation -Please give the credit where and when it is due.
These are just a few of the tips that we discussed during the lecture. The link provided should fill in the blanks.
Sorry, still breaking the rules!
This was indeed an eye opener to me! Writing for the internet is not as easy as i thought it to be. There are so many points that one should consider when writing for the internet. It is not the simplest task, however, by sticking to thr rules, successful production of written work can be achieved.
ReplyDeleteInteresting slant Ms. Isaac. Enjoyable read!
These are rules that I never gave thought to but I realise now how essential it is as writing for the Internet will one day be the only medium. I really did appreciate both the lecture in class as well as this blog because now I will be more conscious of writing for the Internet.
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