by David Tenenbaum, staff scribe
- Think graphically, but don't freight your page with unneeded slow-loading images.
- If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out (thanks Mr. Orwell.)
- Know and use what's already on the web: amazing resources, pure dreck, and everything in between. You can serve readers by evaluating this morass, not just linking to the first site you find.
- Be funny when you can. Remember, the mouse is the ultimate clicker.
- People like to click that rodent. Give them something to do.
- Vast deserts of text (like this) are scary. Break up long pages.
- Invent new ways to use the technology -- quizzes, games, graphics.
- Don't get bogged down in the technology.
- Web writing is no different than print journalism (except):
- You can always correct your mistakes.
- You can usually blame the technology.
- You can always refer readers to more information (which they might actually read).
- You don't kill so many trees.
- Ignoring copyright is practically part of the culture, but as Richard Nixon once said, in another context, "That would be wrong."
- Paying writers ("content generators") is not.
- Finally, don't lose readers in cyberspace. Specify who writes and publishes your page. List your sources.
Why Files dog and pony show
Simple drawings disenjargonate the story.Use humor.
Use dumb video.
Keep the reader up-to-date on the future.
Use a provocative tone to keep readers awake.
Sprinkle on the controversy.
List and evaluate web resources.
Tickle the ears.
