When using the two keywords you’ve chosen that include emotion catching words, make sure you place them strategically to form a killer title.
It’s often best to use your primary keyword first within the title.
Whenever possible, avoid placing the two keywords right next to each other. You want there to be some space between each keyword to avoid any confusion with the search engine. For example, if your primary keyword’s “free writing tips” and your secondary keyword’s “national writing contests,” your title should be written something along the lines …

By Alyssa Ast
A vital aspect of creating online content involves the use of search engine optimized (SEO) keywords. While most online writers understand the value of strategically placing their keywords throughout their content, many forget that the title’s just as important. Incorporating keywords correctly within a title will increase the likeliness of your work being placed high on a search engines results page.
There are many simple SEO keyword tips you can follow that will produce a huge result.
Choosing Great Keywords
Before you can create a great SEO title, it’s vital …

Everyone has “sources” they depend on to write well. I rely heavily on the Mayo Clinic’s website (for useful health references) and Rhapsody of Fire blasted on MAX (for inspiration) to help me get started. For others, Tagcrowd or Textalyser helps keep their articles SEO-rich and focused. When I’m deep into my article, though, I’ll use Thesaurus.com and the sources listed below to flesh it out.
If you really want to improve your writing, these three sources are a must. It won’t make you a writing god, but …

Some writers use Craigslist to snag new writing gigs (writer Carly Schuna credits her freelance writing success to the site), and while there’s nothing wrong with that, not all writing job posts are legitimate. Some may be elaborate money scams, veiled attempts to promote websites that really don’t pay for content, or people trying to find “sample articles” to steal for their own unscrupulous purposes. It’s definitely not cool, but it’s a fact of life if you want to find writing jobs on Craigslist.
But how do you separate …

Again, before you begin your query letter, there are some things you should avoid.  Here are some common mistakes writers make when compiling a query letter.
4 Common Query Mistakes to Avoid

Pitching more than one article. You shouldn’t be pitching more than one article per letter.  If you must, write a separate letter for the other topic.

Writing a query that is longer than one page. Editors skim the letter quickly to see if it interest them, and they’re not likely to read a long query.

Claiming you are the “perfect fit” for …

The standard query letter is split into three major parts: the hook, the body and the conclusion.
The Hook: This is your introduction. It should be something that immediately grabs the editor’s attention, usually consisting of a sentence or two. It should include an important fact or main point that will be the central theme of your article.
Example: “When my friend, reality show vixen Chasey Leone, quit A Roar at Love in March 2007, producer John Syphil gave her a parting gift—an incurable sexually transmitted disease.   But Leone …

Using UGC websites to generate money is good for steady, supplemental income, but working for independent clients yields better income (not to mention an honorable addition to your writing resume).  You may make $5 to $15 per article on UGC websites, but you can easily earn $20 or more by providing articles to independent business owners, web site owners or even local celebrities.

Use these five places regularly to find new writing gigs and opportunities.

5 Places to Check For New Writing Gigs
1. Elance.com. Many website and business owners post ads (called …