Writing articles can take quite a bit of time if you 'allow' the writing process to 'hold you captive' until you have finished your composition. For many it is common to sit down with the intentions of starting and completing the entire process in that one sitting. This approach contains some built in flaws which can result in adding more time to the writing process itself.

The key to writing an article in a time efficient manner is to only invest your time when you have something to write. The point is most of the time invested in writing an article goes into idea generation. You need to determine your subject, the points you want to make and the angle you intend to take. This does NOT have to be done sitting there looking at a computer screen.

Here are 5 tips you can use when you write an article that will allow you to be more productive and efficient in doing so.

Pull Your Ideas Together

Decide what it is you want to write about and jot down any ideas as they come to you. Look at the ideas you have listed and consider what angle you may want to take or the point you want to make. Remember that your idea generation can be done AWAY from the computer screen which will likely allow you to think more creatively.

Do Not Save Your Best

As different topics or ideas come to mind use them all in your next writing session. It is tempting to hold back a 'great' idea for later but what is the point? Share these ideas with readers as they come to mind and do not worry since you will have many other 'great' ideas to write about later.

Go With the Flow

There are times when the writing process flows very easily for you. Words do NOT escape you and your fingers are literally 'flying' across the keyboard at times like this. Take advantage of these times and write as much as time and your schedule will allow. You are on a roll so go with it!

Use Simplified Formats

Selecting a more simplified format such as using bullet points or even sub headings can make the writing process flow more smoothly for you. Formats like these will help prevent you from spending additional time trying to 'transition' one paragraph into the next. You know the feeling, it is much like creating your opening and closing paragraphs, they always seem to take the most time.

An added bonus to using formats like these is that it is easier for people to read and follow therefore making them more popular with readers.

When You Hit a Wall …

During the writing process it is inevitable that you may suffer from the dreaded mental paralysis known as writers block. When this occurs and if this persists leave the article and go do something else. By removing yourself from a situation where you are 'pressing' for ideas and creating more pressure for yourself you allow your mind to relax. This almost ALWAYS results in the resurgence of new and creative ideas flowing through your mind. At this point you are now 'back in business' and ready to write.

Writing articles can take up a good amount of time especially if you do not have your thoughts prepared beforehand. The majority of time invested in composing anything actually goes into idea generation and this does not have to be done while sitting in front of a computer screen. Not only does this waste your time but it also increases your frustration which promotes writers block. The 5 tips offered here will help you be more productive and efficient when you do write an article. It all boils down to using your time wisely and only tackling any tasks when you are best prepared to do so.