#writing – Page 9 – Jean's Writing

Do you need to do more than Google it?

Published on August 23, 2017August 21, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell2 Comments

Sometimes Google is not the end all be expert.

Although, in our family, the go-to phrase is, “Google it.”

However, on occasion, we need more. But, Facebook and Twitter as a news authority? Really?

Like most people, I love reading Facebook and Twitter but, we need to always check the source. Too many times an opinion piece is considered news. Remember, check the origin of that article your Aunt Sue tagged you in. And if unsure, there are plenty of websites you can run the truth meter. Snopes, and FactCheck are just two.

What have I learned from Facebook and Twitter? Writing an eye-catching title is important. Not easy but important.

So where do we look for answers to our burning questions?

Read this post by Jacqui Murray. She gives us several places to get the facts straight.

Unconventional Research Sites for Writers by Jacqui Murray

My favorite on her list?

How Stuff Works and Info Please

And here is another you can add to her list. How It’s Made. Click on the link to watch the episodes.

What is your go to information resource?

Do you Google for everything?

Which of her suggestions do you find interesting?

I like to hear yours. Leave me a comment and let’s talk.

Please head over and “like” my Facebook page at Facebook at jeanswriting . Or to connect with me, click the “write me” tab. Don’t forget you can follow me on StumbleUpon, on Twitter @jeancogdell , and Amazon.com.

Please stop by and say “hey!” I’ll leave a light on.

How scammers can profit from your promotion

Published on August 21, 2017September 14, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell23 Comments

Your generosity, that’s how.

Writing a book is not for the faint of heart.

Takes hours, of blood, sweat, and tears. Lots of tears. Why oh why would someone scam off of this hard-earned work? I just don’t get it.

Just when I thought I heard everything, along comes book scammers. Really? Seems every time you give away a book, there is someone ready to profit from your freebie.

Reading this post by Carrie Rubin explains a lot.

I’ve wondered where and how some of my books were showing up as “new-used” for sale by other people. Now I know.

A Most Reluctant Princess - Amazon

Read her post and tell me what you think.

Why I’ll Never Run Another Goodreads Giveaway Again … Probably … Maybe By Carrie Rubin

Have you given away any promotional copies of your book?

Will you consider it in the future?

Are copies of your books for sale by third parties?

What do you think about giveaways now?

I like to hear thoughts. Leave me a comment and let’s talk.

Please stop by and say “hey!” I’ll leave a light on.

Do you need suggestions for a more successful blog?

Published on May 24, 2017May 17, 2017 by Jean M. Cogdell3 Comments

Everyone wants to write a successful blog.

Even fiction writers.

And now I’ve discovered a new (new to me) term that might help.

Evergreen content

If you’re like me, the word evergreen brings to mind shrubs, trees and other foliage that stay green all year. But here is another definition of this adjective–retaining its relevance, popularity, usefulness, etc.; enduring.

So just how does Evergreen Content apply to a blog?

Write useful content that endures season after season will keep readers coming back.

Now wouldn’t it be wonderful to know that your blog, the one you’ve spent countless hours writing, will endure?

Me too!

A recent article by ELISE DOPSON – The Key to Creating a Successful Blog: Evergreen Content, explains how to write a blog post that endures.

Here is what I learned from her article.

Don’t jump at the latest fad because what’s in vogue today may not be popular tomorrow.
Do share how to do things. Everyone loves a good tutorial. Just look at the success of Youtube.
Not into videos? Then share lists your readers can follow.
Reviews are another great lasting subject. Everyone checks reviews and stars on stuff from books to drills.
Think Dear Abby. Share real advice on your blog.

There is lots more in her article that will help you turn your blog Spring Green. Check it out and tell me what you think.