As I've been studying The Journeyman Writer podcast, I've learned many things that I certainly didn't know previously. However, the most effective thing I've learned is the value of conflict when it comes to writing in any and all forms.
The 11th tip for effective writing is to make sure everything you write has conflict or asks an engaging question. This is typically a rule of thumb specifically for narrative and storytelling writing styles.
My argument, though, is that all writing is storytelling. From BuzzFeed articles to CNN news posts to long, boring contracts, writers are always trying to tell a story--to convey a message.
What makes stories interesting? Conflict does. The BuzzFeed article, which draws the clicks and attention of millions, usually starts by stating a problem. It proceeds into the article by how that problem is solved and how this may affect the life of the reader afterward.
The problem may be something trivial: "What are the Top Ten Brands of Deodorant?" There is still conflict here. It creates a situation where the question itself makes the potential reader want to click and find out.
What every successful writer must do is present a problem and address that problem quickly. No one likes a fantasy novel where there are seven chapters of description and set-up before the first beat of conflict occurs. No, we like an immediate moment of tension to draw us in.
If every writer tries to follow this approach, their material will be exponentially more effective and engaging. Make every sentence count.
Don't drone on and on before reaching your point.
Create a compelling reason for which your point exists.
I think you made a great point about conflict making a piece of writing interesting. You even alluded to conflict in your post by presenting both sides of the argument. I thought your post was very well-written from an editing standpoint.
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