So many authors spend a lot of time and money on promotion that doesn't work. It's time to do what authors do best--write a short article. Follow these ten steps to write an article top web sites will clamor for with a link back to where your book is sold.

Apply these Ten Steps

1. Choose a topic that relates to your book. Make sure this how-to article has useful, needed information. One site who markets to professional speakers just published my article "What Makes One Book Out Sell Another."

2. Know your article's thesis. The thesis is what your article will prove. In introduction above, thesis is stated in last line, "Use these ways to write an article top web sites will clamor for with a link back to where your book is sold."

3. Know your preferred audience. Just as your book has a target audience, so should your article. My book, "How to Write Your E-Book or Other Book Fast! is a short, easy-to-read, step-by-step guide to assist professionals with writing and selling their book.

4. Write a sparkling opening. Like a headline in a press release or on your book's back cover, your first sentence should grab your readers by collar so they will keep reading. The opening could use a shocking fact, a question, a benefit, or a compelling story right out of your book. Make opening a short paragraph, even a single line. Readers want short, concise, digestible information, especially on Internet.

Want to add punch to your words? Want to write copy that gets results? Here are some golden rules that make for powerful writing....

Oh, before you get all excited - a small note of caution. Not every writer will agree with me. But these are rules I have made for myself after a lot of trial and errors. I follow them no matter what I am writing. Even personal letters and emails. And they work. Always.

Define "take-away" First things first. Define to yourself "take away" - one single message you want reader to understand and remember. This will determine what arguments you include and what facts you use to support your position.

The take away could be anything - your opinion on a topic, product benefits, what your company stands for... By way, in case I haven't made it clear yet - My "take-away" today is to leave you with some tips that will turn your text into "Writing that Works."

Know your audience Think of your audience as a person, not a customer base. Create a mental picture of ONE individual - her likes, dislikes, preferences, habits etc. Color it with as much detail as you can. Pay particular attention to two things - her understanding of your topic and her language ability. Then, write to HER. Pitch your words at her level, talk to her in a tone and voice she appreciates.

Tell a Story Stories fascinate us. That's why they sell so much.