So you are ready to get onboard the article marketing train everyone is promoting as the best thing since sliced bread? There is no disputing the many benefits associated with a well planned and executed article marketing campaign. Certainly almost instant laser targeted traffic, the development of a reputation as a knowledgeable expert, and then long term high ranking on search engines all combine to make this a strategy to use. Even better is the low cost associated with starting down this path. After all, with training and experience you could be creating and submitting articles to directories and submission sites very quickly. However, as an article writer there are certain requirements involved in achieving the results you seek. Read on for some of the basics of article writing.

Article length should be 300 to 500 words. Anything less than 300 presents a challenge as far as the article writer being able to include enough information and content to satisfy your readers. Over 500 words and you risk overwhelming readers with too much data and detail. Many will just give up and leave.

Follow a basic outline in setting up every article. Include an introductory paragraph preparing your readers for what is to follow. Include 3 or 4 paragraphs presenting the details, data, and information for your readers. Finish with a conclusion paragraph that summarizes the information just presented.

Proper keywording is essential. There is some variation regarding keyword density between different article directories and submission sites. Follow the rules for those you use. Be sure your keywords are included in the title and the introduction of your article. Use them again in the middle paragraph. Finally, use them in your conclusion.

Select the compelling topics of most interest to your readers. Your article writing should be focused on answering the most gripping questions and addressing their biggest problems. As an article writer you will discover these topics are in demand and read by many.

Article writers must fill their article writing with the content readers want. Now that you are writing on topics of interest, provide information, data and details to help your readers. Eliminate fluff and focus on the important facts, figures and data.

Proofread your work. Readers don't accept poor writing. They expect an expert to follow good grammar, correct spelling and other basic writing rules. They also look for writing style that fits with their reading style. Short, concise writing that is easy to read is the answer.

To your article marketing success!