Writing articles and submitting them to article directory web sites should be project numero uno for you in an attempt to build valuable back links to your web site.

Look in your local newspaper or through a trade magazine in your field of interest. Look at the bottom of some of the columns and articles throughout the literature. What you will see in many cases are short biographies of a paragraph or two telling you a little bit about the person that wrote the article.

If I want to write an article, I simply research, then open my favorite word processor. However, there are programs available that say they will take care of the "heavy lifting" or tedious processes for you. If this is true, then what is left for us professional writers? Should we simply pack up the trusty laptop and head for the hills?

Have you ever experienced writer's block? Most of us have at one time or another, we will stare at a blank sheet or computer screen begging for inspiration or guidance. Fortunately, you can get past this with a little bit of help and perseverance.

An old news pro once told me, "Kid, if it isn't newsworthy, we're not going to print it". If you do not have something to say that is feature worthy, then don't even think about targeting the front page without following some key steps.

Do you need help getting published? Find out what publishers are picky about and how to make them happy.

It is the dream of many of us that write to be featured above the fold on a leading publication, website or newspaper. For many it remains a dream, but for others who turns dreams into action it can become a reality.

A contest brings out the best in all of us, and it can be a lot of fun to compete. Article writing contests can offer cash rewards, give much needed publicity to the author, and drive traffic to the website where the contest is being held.

Just as there are those who are born an artist, there are others who are born with the talent to write a novel, create a perfect sales letter, compel their readers to come along on a journey to another land, adventure or experience. But can a writing course help you produce better articles?

If you are looking to develop your passion for writing into a profession, then freelance writing can be both profitable and rewarding. However, like any career entry there are steps to consider.