Finding Original Content for Your Articles

Do you love to write? Are you looking for original content that is fresh, different and you can be proud to say you published it first? Well, if you're scratching your head wondering how to find such original content, this article is for you.

First, pick your subject matter. I like to write about movies. But, you may be interested in writing about award-winning canines, politics or surviving in a tough economy. It does not matter what subject you pick, but pick something you're passionate about.

Second, do some detective work. Since I like movies, I go where the movie news is. I have joined several free movie press release services so that I can stay on top of what is going on in the movie field. However, no matter what your subject matter is, you must think like Wayne Gretsky and "go where the puck is." Or, in our case, "go where the subject matter is."

The simplest and most fascinating news source is Facebook. Facebook goes far beyond people; now every organization is publishing news about their subject matter on this free venue. Personally, in my pursuit of movie news, I have friended several actors and directors I am interested in and have generated several news articles just from information they have released on their Facebook page.

Third, go to the source(s). Now, I know that getting an interview with George Lucas ranks right up there with winning the lottery, so, I am setting my sights a little lower. One way of doing this is I have started attending movie festivals when my schedule permits it. Whatever your subject matter, attend some seminars. And, when you get there, talk to people!

Develop your writer's voice. Your writer's voice is your style and technique of writing that suits you best. How do you do this? You write and you study successful writers. Does writing like F. Scott Fitzgerald suit you best, or are you more of an Earnest Hemingway style of writer?

Writing does not come naturally. Neither does running a marathon, algebra, or cooking. You have to practice your craft, you have to make mistakes and you have to write some more, even when you don't feel like writing.

Every writer has a voice, now go find yours and write some great original articles!