How to Create A Blog

Creating a blog is a great way to say what’s on your mind, get noticed, and make new friends. You’ve probably heard the word before, but what is a blog and how do you create one?

Blog is an abbreviation for binary log, based on the hand-written log kept by a ship’s captain. A blog is the place where you’ll write and display your thoughts for the blogging world to read. That world is called the blogosphere.

The blogosphere is the interconnected network of blogging sites found on the Internet. These sites are hosted at two locations, primarily—Blogger or WordPress. Both sites are similar but have features that differentiate them slightly. Basic blogs on both sites are free, unless you want extra features. Blogger has the advantage of free slide shows, videos, plus Java script capabilities for their users. WordPress is totally open-source and template-driven. Templates are customizable for a fee, as are other upgrades like videos and slide shows.

To establish a blog at Blogger, go to www.blogger.com and set up an account. You’ll need a name for your blog. Try to think of one before you register, so you have a good name. It’s likely your first choice is already taken, so have a short list of names for your blog, just in case. After naming your blog, pick your design template. There are many colorful, attractive templates for you to choose from so you get the right feeling for your blog. You can always change the design later. Don’t get too hung up on it right now.

Once you’ve selected a template, enter your profile information. When you’re finished with that, click the link to add a post. A dialog box will open. That is where you input your words. You can use HTML formatting or just compose normally. The system will add the HTML later. When you’re finished writing, you need to edit, proofread, and publish your post. That’s all there is to it.

Add a few good labels that describe your entry so folks can find and visit your blog. When they do, they might comment on your posts. Post regularly so your new friends keep returning. See who else is blogging and add a few favorites. The more interaction and activity you have on your blog, the more popular it will become. Soon you’ll be the most popular blogger in the entire blogosphere–or maybe the most controversial. That’s up to you.