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How To Find Exciting New Topics To Write About
Now, seriously. What can be difficult about turning out an article of 500 to 1000 words? You enjoy writing, you've got a good head on your shoulders, and you have a grasp of loads of subjects that interest you personally. So what's the problem?
Now, seriously. What can be difficult about turning out an article of 500 to 1000 words? You enjoy writing, you’ve got a good head on your shoulders, and you have a grasp of loads of subjects that interest you personally. So what’s the problem?
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.
One thing the seasoned writer will 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.
You can also observe products while food shopping. 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. By purposefully pursuing this mind wandering, you can frequently come up with several topics you’ve never thought of writing about 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!
Always be ready to tackle a new idea, as the wealth of information that exists on any imaginable subject is almost inexhaustible these days.
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.