Definition of Blog

So You've Heard about Blogs but Don't Really Know What Blogs are.

Simply put, the Definition of a Blog or a Weblog is a website that provides commentary on a specific subject or variety of topics. The term "blog" is a contraction of "Web log." "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

According to Wikipedia, one of the Internet's best sources of information, a Weblog is blog is a website where entries are made in journal style and displayed in a reverse chronological order.

Blogs often provide commentary or news on a particular subject, such as food, politics, or local news; some function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and other media related to its topic. Most blogs are primarily textual although some focus on photographs (photoblog), videos (vlog), or audio (podcasting), and are part of a wider network of social media.

When considering the definition of a Blog, you must also think about the pervasiveness of blogs on the Internet. There have been estimates indicating that as many as 30 million Americans (about 10% actively contribute to a weblog. These numbers are staggering when you consider that blogging has only become mainstream in the last couple of years.

Now that you have the definition of a blog and want to start one, the best thing to do is start by using a free service like Blogger. I use Blogger to manage my Marketing Blog and have to tell you that its one of the most simple things I've ever done online. Once your blog is set up, in about 3 easy steps, you can make a post anytime you have access to a computer - or even email.

Once you've set up your blog, you'll want to submit your blog to the major directories like Yahoo! and Tecnorati. Doing so will get others to see your blog and improve your search engine results. Additionally, be sure to provide your blog updates via RSS feed. This means that each time you make a post, subscribers will receive the post via email. Most blog providers give you the opportunity to include this functionality during blog setup.

The other thing you'll want to thing about before you begin blogging is how you'll make your blog unique. Defining the purpose of your blog is a great place to start. Will you use a blog as an online diary? To provide information on a topic you're knowledgeable about? As a place to share ideas with friends and family? Regardless of your definition of a blog, be sure to make it your own. Happy blogging!

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