10 Tips to Reduce Your Blog Post Writing Time

If you’re like me, you spend can 2-3 hours writing a blog post.

This time includes research, writing, editing, and uploading to a website. There is also the additional time it takes to include hyperlinks in your article, adding images and hyperlinking them, and adding a call to action. 

And if you use WordPress and the Gutenberg block system, it can add to the time it takes to publish the post.

While there’s not much you can do about the uploading and what needs to be done before the content is published on the website, you can take steps to reduce the actual writing time.

Here are 10 tips that ChapGPT spewed out to help you write blog posts more quickly. I tweaked them and added my opinion on each:

1. Plan and outline: Before you start writing, spend some time planning and creating an outline for your blog post. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas. A well-structured outline can save you time by providing a roadmap for your writing.

While this is a good idea, the planning and outline phase will just add additional time to your writing. So, I usually skip it.

2. Conduct thorough research in advance: If your blog post requires research, try to gather all the necessary information before you start writing. Having your research material ready will prevent interruptions and delays during the writing process.

This may be worthwhile, but I do research as I’m writing the article. To me it’s half a dozen of this, six of the other.

3. Set a specific time limit: Allocate a specific time for writing each blog post. Setting a timer can help you stay focused and avoid spending excessive time on one section. This technique encourages you to write efficiently and make progress within a given timeframe.

I’m not sure this would work for me – I’ve never tried it. My initial thought is how do you ‘time’ getting the information you need and creating an engaging and helpful article and then upload it to your website. What do you do when the timer goes off and you’re not done?

4. Minimize distractions: Find a quiet and comfortable environment for writing where you can minimize distractions. Turn off notifications on your phone or computer, close unnecessary tabs or applications, and create a conducive atmosphere to maintain your concentration.

I agree with this one. Distractions will only add to your writing time.

5. Write in batches: Instead of writing an entire blog post in one sitting, consider breaking it down into smaller tasks. For example, you could complete the introduction, then take a break before moving on to the main body. This approach allows you to work on different sections separately and prevents fatigue.

This might be helpful if it’s a super-long article. But if you’re writing a 500 to 800-word article, I don’t see the benefit in it.

6. Use writing tools and templates: Utilize writing tools and templates to streamline your writing process. Tools like Grammarly can help you correct grammar and spelling errors, while templates can provide a predefined structure that you can follow. These resources save time by eliminating the need for extensive proofreading or formatting.

Yes, yes, yes. It’s essential to edit and proofread your articles, and I use Grammarly. It’s a program so can’t be relied upon 100 percent, but it does catch errors that you might have missed. It’s a definite time saver.

7. Write freely and edit later: Instead of aiming for perfection in the first draft, focus on getting your ideas down on paper. Allow yourself to write freely without worrying about minor errors or phrasing. Once you've finished, set aside time for editing and revising your work.

I write with my editing hat on. Whether I spend the time editing as I go along or at the end, what’s the difference? I do read through it and use Grammarly or ProWritingAid once it’s done.

8. Avoid excessive self-editing: Trying to perfect each sentence as you write can slow you down significantly. Instead, aim for a continuous flow of ideas and worry about polishing the content during the editing phase. Trust the revision process to fine-tune your writing.

This is a good idea, especially that tools like Grammarly not only proofread, they also offer sentence edits for clarity and passive voice.

9. Practice speed writing: Set aside dedicated time for speed writing exercises. Challenge yourself to write as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality. Over time, this practice can improve your writing speed and help you become more comfortable expressing your thoughts on paper.

I think as I write my blog posts, I practice this. But if time allows it sounds like a good practice idea.

10. Delegate or outsource certain tasks: If you have a team or can afford to hire help, consider delegating or outsourcing tasks such as research, proofreading, or formatting. This can free up your time to focus on the core aspects of writing and make the process more efficient.

I love this one, but how many of us can afford to outsource writing tasks? 

Blogging should be a part of your book marketing strategy as a writer, but remember, while speed is important, it's equally crucial to maintain the quality and value of your blog posts. Find a balance between efficiency and delivering well-crafted content to ensure the best experience for your readers.

Sidenote: This is the first time I used ChatGPT and based on the results, I love it! I just wish I had timed myself putting this article together.

Do you use an IA program? I love to know which one you use and what you think of it!

I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, editor, and coach. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.

Or maybe you’d rather do-it-yourself. Check out my book, HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK.

I also offer an online course: FICTION WRITING FOR CHILDREN ECOURSE.

If your children’s manuscript is done and you need help self-publishing, check out WRITERS ON THE MOVE PRESS.

You can contact me at: kcioffiventrice@gmail.com. Or give me a call at 347—834---6700. (Please leave a message- I'll get back to you as soon as I can.)