7 Outstanding post structures for UK content writers
There are several reasons why it’s important for content writers to use different post structures and formats.
Writers use post structures and formats to make their message easier to understand and depending on the use case, different formats can help to get the message across with much more clarity.
For example, a step-by-step guide can make it straightforward for the audience to follow instructions, while a cause-and-effect structure can effectively explain the underlying reasons for a problem and present its solution.
Creative writers will use numerous post structures and formats to help with audience engagement and make the message more interesting and relatable.
Content can be made to seem more personal and emotional by using a narrative structure, whereas presenting information in a compare-and-contrast structure makes it easier to understand the pros and cons of different options.
The format that writers use affects the outcome or response to the posts, sometimes even persuading the reader to take a specific action or to adopt a particular point of view.
This is known as a P-A-S structure; problem, agitate, solution.
This kind of structure can be effective in encouraging the audience to complete an action that will fix their problem. A response post, by comparison, can effectively convince an audience to consider an opposing view or counterargument.
Formats and post structures allow versatile writers to adapt their message to different contexts and readers.
Here are different post structures that UK writers can use in more detail.
1. Problem-Agitate-Solution (PAS)
This is a structure that is commonly used in persuasive writing, such as in sales copy or marketing materials.
The PAS structure works by first identifying a problem that the audience is facing, then “agitating” the problem by highlighting its negative consequences, and finally offering a solution that the audience can take to resolve the problem.
Example –
Problem: You’re struggling to get more leads for your business.
Agitate: Without leads, your business will struggle to grow, and you’ll miss out on potential customers.
Solution: Our lead generation service can help you to increase your number of leads and grow your business.
2. Response Posts
A response post is where one post is in direct response to another post.
This type of post structure is commonly used in forums, social media, and other online communities.
The post responds to a specific statement or question that was previously made by someone else and aims to provide additional context, clarification, or a counterargument.
Example –
Original Post: “I think that the new iPhone’s camera is overrated. The quality is not that much better than other smartphones on the market.”
Response Post: “I disagree, I have been using the new iPhone’s camera for a few months now, and I have been really impressed by the quality of the photos. The colors are more vibrant, and the low light performance is much better compared to other phones I have used before.”
3. Step-by-step Guide
This structure is commonly used by content writers to provide instructions or a set of actions to follow. The structure breaks down a complex process or task into smaller, more manageable steps that can be easily followed by the audience.
Example –
Step 1: Gather your materials.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Step 3: Mix the flour, sugar, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Add the eggs and milk and mix until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes
4. Cause and Effect
This structure is used to explain how one event or action leads to another. It can be used when writers wish to highlight a problem and its underlying causes or to show how a solution will bring about a desired outcome.
Example –
Cause: Climate change is caused by the burning of fossil fuels.
Effect: Climate change leads to rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and a decline in biodiversity.
5. Compare and Contrast
This structure is used to show the similarities and differences between two or more things. It can be used to compare different products, ideas, or approaches.
Example:
Comparing two different smartphones:
Contrast: The first phone has a smaller screen and a shorter battery life, but is more affordable.
Compare: Both phones have similar camera capabilities and run on the same operating system.
6. Narrative
This structure is used to tell a story, whether it is a personal experience, a historical event or a fictional tale. Content writers can engage the audience and make the message more relatable and memorable.
Example –
The story of how one small business was able to navigate the challenges of the pandemic and emerge stronger than before.
7. Topical
This is a structure where the post is focused on one specific topic. It’s often used in news, blogs, and educational content. This format gives a broad overview of the topic and provides facts, figures, and expert analysis.
Example –
A post on the latest research on COVID-19 Vaccines and their effectiveness.
Final words
These are just some examples of different types of post structures that UK writers can use, but there are many other ways to organize and present information.
The key is to choose the structure that best fits your message and your audience and to make your content as clear, concise, and easy to understand as possible for your audience.
