Chapter 2: Advanced Blogging

Every college journalist should have a blog to work on web writing techniques.

Blogging is an expansive tool of conversation and a modern news source.

However, blogs are not magical. It takes skill, practice and patience to learn to blog well.

First, blog basics:
**The history of blogging can be followed with the history of the internet but the turning point in blogging popularity was a result of the 9/11 attacks**

Blogging and journalism are still evolving together with innovation and experimentation.

So you want to become a blogger now?
First, it's important to learn the language stated in Mark Briggs Journalism Next.
-"Post: An entry on a blog or, as a verb, to make an entry on a blog.
-Permalink: A link available on each post that provides direct access to that post, usually with comments visible.
-Trackback: A mechanism for communication between blogs, enabling one blogger to let another know that he or she is linking to their material.
-Blogroll: A collection of links usually found on the sidebar of a blog.
-Vlog: A blog that features video commentary as its primary medium.
-Moblog: Blogging from a mobile device.

So let's get started!
First decide what you 1) what to name your blog 2) think of a description for your blog and 3) what will you write about? What is the point?

Now, choose a blog system to upload your posts on to. Decide on a name and theme.

Next, customize your blog with fonts, colors, etc. Look into adding a widget, a tool used to add extra functionality to one's blog.

Now you have a blog, but how do you get readers? Think of what the readers wants to read. Make sure your ideas are clear and organized and be an "authority" on something. Also, make your posts scanable, include links and have an overall good attitude.

**It's much more colorful to add pictures and images.***

Here's a few last second tips to create a successful blog:
-Make sure you post as often as possible, at least once a day if possible to keep your readers attention.
-Participate in blogging communities to gain readers.
-Create an RSS feed to link to other blogs.