Meta description: Learn how to write an engaging article in under five hours by putting your

brainstorming, writing, and creativity skills to the test.

 

Writing an article can be hard—on so many different fronts. Not only can it be difficult to write in the English language, but it can be difficult to be concise, clear, and professional too. If you have a time constraint that you need to adhere to, too, it can make it all the more challenging, especially if you tend to get a very pesky writer’s block at your desk.

 

Here are a few easy tricks to make writing an article in under five hours that much more stress-free and enticing.

​

First, find a notebook and a pen—or use your phone if you feel so inclined—and jot down ideas. Brainstorm key points you want to include on the topic you are writing about. Do a little bit of research if you need to. Similarly, jot down ideas that you know you need to include—ideas that your article cannot do well without.

 

Because this is for writing a shorter piece, it shouldn’t be too hard to come up with a good title. This should be your next objective. However, if you prefer to do this last—as some writers do—you can. It’s hard to identify which method is easier, as every writer is different. 

 

If you do like to write your titles before the article itself, focus on your subject and what the article is about. Try to be catchy and engaging for your audience.

 

If you need help with finding the best title, you can view some more quick tips here.

 

For example, if the article you are trying to write belongs in the self-help and self-care category, “how to” titles are often the most popular. Same applies for articles that attempt to teach the reader something. Likewise, if you’re guiding your audience through the steps of a DIY project, an “X Easy Steps to Blank” title could work just as well.

 

Use short sentences and small paragraphs to keep readers engaged—like this one right here. Longer ones tend to bore them.

​

Readers are also more likely to read your article if it looks short and appears easy to read.

​

Also, if able, use images and links—use all your tools! Don’t think that because you’re a writer, confined to mostly the written word that you can’t use anything out of your skillset.

 

Take your own photos if you wish. Add a caption. Explain how it relates to your topic. Be creative.

 

Finally—and it may be best to do this once you’ve finished writing your article—write a brief summary for it. Or you can write a thesis statement beforehand, if not to include in the article itself but for your own use to stay on topic. This will help remind you of the key points.

 

Start strong with your most interesting fact and end with something for your readers to do. Let them apply the information and tools you’ve given them.

 

And there you have it! You have a good foundation for how to begin an article assignment and how to complete it within five hours tops. Now pick a subject and get writing!