How to Find Ideas for Your Articles

When I started writing for Associated Content I was so happy. I couldn't believe a stay at home mom could get paid for writing 400 word articles. I wrote about a few things I was knowledgeable in because of the saying, "write what you know". Not soon after that I would just sit at the computer and draw a blank. I didn't know if I had writer's block or just ran out of things to write about. A few weeks ago, however, I figured out how to get an unlimited amount of ideas for my articles. They will work for anyone so I want to share them with you.

First, if you don't read the newspapers-start! I was sitting at my Dad's one day and decided to look through his newspaper. Mostly out of boredom. As I was reading the articles it hit me. This is the kind of information people are looking for. I read an article on Lymes Disease and one lady's struggle with it. That gave me the idea for two articles. One was on tick season and one was on Lymes Disease itself. I took out a notebook and started jotting down subjects that were in this paper. I didn't have to be an expert on them; I could just do some research and write an article based on my findings.

Second, if you don't watch the news-start! I didn't realize the time I was spending watching television could be time gathering article ideas. The Today Show for example had segments on what baby products are a necessity, the latest fashion tips for the Spring, and a man who was teaching others to succeed by focusing on their strengths verses their weaknesses. All of which make good article topics because this is the information people are looking for. Just do a little more research at the library or online. Make sure you put your own spin on it.

Third, pay attention to conversations going on around you. Are your friends talking about a new product on the market or a new place to go vacationing? Are they looking for more ways to potty train their child? The possibilities are endless. The point is, if someone is talking about it, it would probably make a good topic because once again, people are interested in it.

My suggestion is to purchase a small notebook you can fit in to your pocket or purse. Take it with you wherever you go. Jot down topic ideas as you hear them mentioned or as you see them in a newspaper or television program. Then do a little research and write your articles.