Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.
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Staking my claim on 2024. First new podcast episode!
My biggest goal of the year is to get my friend’s book published.
Listen to learn more about my motivations, strategy, gameplan, and potential future.
I’ll keep you guys updated on the progress of this goal as we get further into the year.
If all goes well, I’ll be announcing our big accomplishment in a future episode. If we don’t succeed, then none of this ever happened…
Related Links
My Timeline – My goal timeline for the year, including a breakdown of the goals mentioned in the podcast (plus other ambitions).
Goals Timeline (PDF) – Create your own goal timeline for the next day, week, month, year, and decade. This is the most important exercise you’ll ever do.
Self-Improvement Coaching – Reach out to me for motivation. I’m especially interested in helping other creative types to finish any projects they’ve been procrastinating on.
Enter your email to stay updated on new content on self improvement:
Creative writing is a challenge for many students, often because they can’t come up with anything to write about. That’s why we love picture writing prompts. Each one sparks the imagination and helps young writers jump right into crafting a story to match. We rounded up a whole collection of intriguing images for use with kids in grades K-12 along. Plus we designed a set of free Google Slides featuring all of the prompts so you can easily share them with students.
Tip: Start by showing students the picture (or let them choose from among several) without making any comment about what they’re seeing. For kids who still struggle to get started, suggest a potential title or opening sentence, like the examples included here.
Don’t miss our free downloadable. Grab your full set of ready-to-go Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides with all of the prompts below.
Jump to:
Elementary Picture Writing Prompts
When kids first see these picture writing prompts, they may or may not immediately feel inspired. If they need some help, ask them questions like “What led up to this moment?” or “What’s going to happen next?”
When his team lost the championship, Miguel was crushed, but it turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to him.
Middle School Picture Writing Prompts
Middle school writing prompts can be a little more complex, with pictures that have a lot of potential interpretations. Encourage students to delve deeper into the story by describing how the characters feel and why they behave the way they do.
“Well, that’s convenient,” Javdok remarked to Qabow when they saw the sign.
High School Picture Writing Prompts
High school writers are ready to dig deep, exploring character development and detailed plots. These pictures offer a jumping-off point to set their imaginations free.
It seemed like a funny joke to pose the skeletons in front of old Mrs. Petoski’s house, but then she turned up dead, and the police said it was murder.
Aliyah stood on the tracks, uncertain of where to go next.
Art Picture Writing Prompts
These picture prompts are all works of art, some more well known than others. Try providing them to students without sharing the titles first, then offer up the titles if they need some help getting started.
Get Your Free Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides
We Are Teachers
Just click the button below to fill out the form and get instant access to free downloadable Picture Writing Prompts Google Slides with all the prompts included above.
An honest review of 2023, featuring stand-out articles, practical worksheets, and a preview of the near future at The Emotion Machine.
Another year is coming to an end. It’s time for my annual recap and roundup of best articles.
To start, I’ll say this year was a good year for me overall. Not excellent, not bad – but “good.” It was more turbulent than past years and I certainly had low moments, but I adapted quickly and made a couple major habit changes that are going to payoff big in the future.
Despite the chaos, I was remarkably consistent in my output this year. After a decade working on this site, creating new content is almost automatic for me. There’s no reason to assume I’ll be slowing down anytime soon, as new ideas and new projects are constantly coming to mind.
Last year I pledged to make one new worksheet per month, so we already have a nice collection of 12 available going into the new year. These have received a lot of positive feedback so far and I’ll keep making new ones in 2024 (already have a long list of ideas).
I’ll share more on my goals for 2024 soon, but let’s first take a look at the best self-improvement content that was published at The Emotion Machine in 2023…
Best Articles/Worksheets of 2023
Here’s a list of my best articles and worksheets from 2023 by category.
I haven’t yet worked on my goals timeline, an annual tradition I do at the beginning of every year, but I’ll give you a quick peak at my main work goals in the near future:
Worksheets – As mentioned, I will definitely continue making one new worksheet each month. They are easy evergreen content and I’ve received compliments on them. The “Daily Routine” PDF will be coming out mid-January 2024.
Coaching – I’m bringing this back. Took most of the year off to focus on website but I think coaching is one of my better and more rewarding strengths. I already set up a calendar for easy scheduling and updated my coaching page.
Podcasting – I have too many thoughts per day that could be turned into valuable content but never materialize anywhere. “Everyone has great ideas, but not everyone acts on them.” Just pressing the record button and letting my mind riff is easy content that I think people will find interesting. I just need to suck it up and do it. I already have a Soundcloud (with a lot of old content) that I just need to reactivate.
Literary Agent – This is new territory for me. I’ve been working closely with an upcoming author friend and we’ve been making plans on finishing her first manuscript and sending pitches to publishers. She just finished the rough draft last week, but I’m going to be working with her more closely on editing, feedback, and reaching out to publishers once we have things tidied up. I still need to do more research but it could be a good avenue for me. It plays on multiple strengths: 1) Understanding the creative process, 2) Motivating people to actually finish their projects, 3) Finding people who have talent and potential, 4) Rooting for other people’s success. It feels like a natural outgrowth of a lot of my past work with creative people (at music venues, art galleries, and coaching various writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers).
Articles – This isn’t changing. I’ll still be publishing at least one new or updated article every week. These make up the backbone of the website and I have no shortage of ideas and no reason to stop writing them anytime soon. If you want me to write about a specific topic, just use the contact page and let me know. I have many interests but it’s easier for me to cater to what you guys want. Feedback makes the site better.
All in all I’m excited about 2024, and the ideas above feel like a perfect balance between “sticking with what works” vs. “trying new things.”
Join Me In 2024
If you find this work valuable to your life and want more, join me and support me going into the new year.
My entire archive currently has over 850 articles covering a wide-range of subjects in psychology and self-improvement; and there’s plenty more to come in the future. I’m just getting started.
To be honest with you, some of my earlier articles may not have aged as well as others. When you consistently produce content over 14 years, you inevitably release some less-than-stellar pieces. It’s a part of the process – having both “winning streaks” and “losing streaks” is a universal theme in life.
Over the years, my beliefs, values, and interests have also shifted since I first started this site. There are things I wrote in the past that I don’t wholly agree with today. However, I choose to keep these old posts accessible because people often need different advice at various stages of their lives.
I bet that’s not the hottest sales pitch you’ve ever heard. At heart, I consider myself a teacher more than a salesman, and that means being sincere, honest, and truthful before everything else. If you’re looking for “one trick” to magically fix your life, you’re in the wrong place. I don’t have those – never found them.
All I can do is offer an array of tools, advice, and guidelines. You ultimately have to figure out what applies (or doesn’t) to your life. In truth, 80% of the content on this site may not interest you at all, but there’s that 20% that could be just what you need at this exact moment in your life.
What I can promise you is that I’m one of the most dedicated writers on self-improvement currently going. I’ve seen thousands of other “self help” sites rise and fall over the years, but I keep chugging away no matter what.
If you want to align with my commitment to happiness and well-being, then your first step is to join me.
Better yet, get a Yearly subscription, for two simple reasons: 1) You’re committing yourself to a year of self-improvement, and 2) It’s cheaper. I’m honestly saying this from a self-improvement perspective and not a sales one.
Let’s Go…
You can cancel your membership at anytime. Please use the Contact form if you have any questions or comments.
Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.
Writing can open up doors in so many ways. It can help a business or business professional gain recognition with discoverable blog posts and SEO-friendly pages. It can help someone get a job with professionally polished cover letters, and it can help someone stand out in their industry with a thoughtfully written LinkedIn post. But it’s also time-consuming and challenging. So you can automate it for someone this holiday season.
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Idioms are expressions that have a meaning that isn’t immediately obvious from the words themselves. Every language has them, and fluent speakers use them casually without even thinking about them. But for young students or those learning English as a second language, these phrases can be really confusing. Share these idiom examples with your students to deepen their understanding and use of American English idioms in no time flat!
We’ve put together a list of some of the most common English idioms, complete with meanings and examples. Try using them for Idiom of the Day lessons, posting them around the classroom, or creating an idiom examples bulletin board.
Get a free Google Slides deck of all 110 idioms to use with your students by filling out the form on this page.
We Are Teachers
A fish out of water
Meaning: Someone in an uncomfortable position or situation
Example: It was Allison’s first day at her new school, and she felt like a fish out of water.
Add fuel to the fire
Meaning: To make things worse
Example: Celia added fuel to the fire by accusing the opposing team of cheating.
Add insult to injury
Meaning: Do something to make a bad situation worse
Example: Learning she failed her science test on the same day her best friend moved away added insult to injury.
All bark and no bite
Meaning: Full of big talk but not willing to take meaningful action
Example: Don’t be afraid of him when he gets mad. He’s all bark and no bite.
All ears
Meaning: Eager to listen to what someone has to say
Example: The class was all ears when Ms. Ali mentioned a way to earn extra credit on the test.
Ants in your pants
Meaning: Can’t sit still
Example: “Stop wriggling while I’m braiding your hair!” Kehlani’s mom said. “You have ants in your pants this morning.”
Anything but
We Are Teachers
Meaning: Not at all
Example: When they heard about the pop quiz, the students were anything but excited.
Bad egg
Meaning: A person who causes trouble or is dishonest
Example: Most of the group were kind and honest, but a few bad eggs caused trouble for the rest.
Barking up the wrong tree
Meaning: To be looking for answers in the wrong place
Example: James thought Christopher was the one who broke the vase, but he was barking up the wrong tree.
Be a fly on the wall
Meaning: To watch something happen without anyone knowing you’re there
Example: Nico wished he could be a fly on the wall when his sister discovered the toad he’d left in her shoe!
Beat around the bush
Meaning: To avoid saying what you mean, often because it would be difficult or uncomfortable
Example: Don’t beat around the bush. Just tell me why you can’t come to my birthday party on Friday.
Beef up
Meaning: To make something stronger
Example: My teacher recommended I beef up my essay with stronger examples to support my main point.
Bend over backward
Meaning: To try very hard to do something, even if it causes you problems
Example: I’ve been bending over backward to plan this party at the last minute.
Bigger fish to fry
Meaning: More important things to do
Example: Don’t waste my time with silly little things today. I’ve got bigger fish to fry.
Bite the bullet
Meaning: To do something that’s uncomfortable or not fun and get it over with
Example: After putting it off for several days, Alex decided to bite the bullet and start work on the history project.
Blessing in disguise
Meaning: An apparently bad thing that turns out to be good in some way
Example: Dashaun was disappointed he couldn’t go to the party, but after everyone who attended got food poisoning, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
Bone to pick
Meaning: To be angry at someone about something and want to talk about it
Example: I’ve got a bone to pick with you! You need to stop leaving your junk all over my desk.
Bread and butter
Meaning: A person’s main source of income
Example: Khalil loves playing with his band on the weekends, but giving guitar and piano lessons is his bread and butter.
Break a leg
Meaning: Good luck! Often used in the theater before a play or performance.
Example: Is your piano recital tonight? Well, break a leg!
Break the ice
Meaning: To do or say something that will make people feel more comfortable
Example: OK, since none of us have met before, let’s introduce ourselves and break the ice by sharing our favorite ice cream flavor.
Burn your bridges
Meaning: To do something that makes it impossible to return to the way things were before
Example: If you insult your boss when you resign, you’ll burn your bridges with that company.
Butter up
Meaning: To flatter or praise someone to get their help or support
Example: Malik is being really nice to me all of a sudden. I think he’s trying to butter me up and get me to vote for him for class president.
Call it a day
Meaning: To stop working on something and plan to pick it up again later
Example: After working for three hours on her science fair project, Sofia decided to call it a day.
Change of heart
Meaning: To change your opinion about something
Example: Ms. Ramirez used to be opposed to allowing dogs at school, but she’s had a change of heart.
Cherry on top
Meaning: To make something that is already good even better
Example: We won free tickets to the concert, but the cherry on top was learning we’d also won backstage passes!
Chicken out
Meaning: To be too afraid to do something
Example: She stood on the high diving board for almost 10 minutes, but in the end Dionne chickened out and came back down the ladder instead of jumping.
Chip off the old block
Meaning: A person who is similar to a parent in some way
Example: Kayden loves to play chess as much as his dad does. He’s a real chip off the old block.
Cool as a cucumber
Meaning: Calm and serene, often in a difficult situation
Example: While everyone else panicked about the pop quiz, Inez was cool as a cucumber.
Costs an arm and a leg
Meaning: To describe something that is very expensive
Example: A new PlayStation costs an arm and a leg, so you’d better start saving now if you want to buy one.
Crack a window
Meaning: Open a window slightly
Example: It’s so stuffy in here. Can someone please crack a window for some fresh air?
Cream of the crop
Meaning: The very best of a group
Example: Everyone knows that Harvard and Yale only accept the cream of the crop.
Cross your fingers
Meaning: To wish someone luck or hope for something to happen
Example: Headed to your audition? I’ll cross my fingers that you get the part you want!
Cry over spilled milk
Meaning: To feel sorry over something that has already happened, even though it’s not helpful
Example: It’s too bad you broke your phone, but there’s no use crying over spilled milk.
Cry wolf
Meaning: To lie about something to get attention or help
Example: If you keep crying wolf, no one will believe you when you’re really hurt.
Cut somebody some slack
Meaning: To ease up on someone, to allow them some leeway or another chance
Example: Even though Jake was late with his English essay, Ms. Davis decided to cut him some slack since she knew he’d had the stomach flu.
Cutting corners
Meaning: To do something quickly and badly in order to save time or money
Example: Liza cut corners on her math homework so she could watch TV and ended up getting most of the answers wrong.
Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning: Don’t depend on something before it happens
Example: I know you’re sure you’re going to get the lead in the spring play, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
Drag your feet
Meaning: To be reluctant to do something
Example: Rohan knew he needed to start his research paper, but he just kept dragging his feet.
Draw a blank
Meaning: To fail to remember something
Example: Keiko studied hard for the test, but when it came time to answer the question, she drew a blank.
Drop the ball
Meaning: To make a mistake
Example: Aisha said she’d make the poster for our project, but she forgot. She really dropped the ball on this one.
Eagle eye
Meaning: Close or careful watch on something
Example: Ever since I broke a glass, my parents keep an eagle eye on me when I’m washing dishes.
Ear to the ground
Meaning: To be well informed or try to learn more about events
Example: Keep your ear to the ground and see if you can learn more about their plan.
Every cloud has a silver lining
We Are Teachers
Meaning: No matter how bad something seems, there’s usually a good side to it as well
Example: Jamal was disappointed that his soccer game was canceled, but it gave him time to go to the movies with his friends, and his mom pointed out that every cloud has a silver lining.
For the birds
Meaning: Worthless or no good
Example: Those cheap pens are for the birds; they barely work at all.
Get off my back
Meaning: Used to ask someone to stop bugging you about something
Example: I told you I’d mow the lawn this weekend—now get off my back!
Get out of hand
Meaning: To become difficult to control
Example: Ms. Rodriguez told her students they could chat while they worked, as long as the noise level didn’t get out of hand.
Get something out of your system
Meaning: Do the thing you’ve been wanting to do so you can move on
Example: Mr. Patel knew his students were eager to try out the new playground equipment, so he told them to go ahead and get it out of their system before they started class.
Get your act together
Meaning: Behave properly, or organize your thoughts so you can do something successfully
Example: After the third time he was late to class, Connor’s teacher told him he needed to get his act together and start showing up on time.
Get your ducks in a row
Meaning: To get things organized or make plans
Example: I have so many things to get done today! I need to get my ducks in a row before I get started.
Get your feet wet
Meaning: To take a small step in an effort to learn or do something new
Example: Before joining the cross-country team, Melanie got her feet wet by running a few local 5K races.
Give it a whirl
Meaning: To try something
Example: I’ve never made a cake from scratch, but I’m willing to give it a whirl.
Give someone the benefit of the doubt
Meaning: To trust what someone says, even if you’re not entirely sure what they’re saying is true
Example: Charlotte wasn’t sure Amelia was really late because she missed the bus, but decided to give her the benefit of the doubt.
Give someone the cold shoulder
Meaning: To ignore someone, usually because you’re upset or angry with them
Example: Will and Jessica were mad at Emma, so they decided to give her the cold shoulder until she apologized.
Go back to the drawing board
Meaning: To start something over again with a completely new idea
Example: When her science experiment failed completely, Hailey knew it was time to go back to the drawing board.
Go the extra mile
Meaning: To do more than you’re required to do
Example: Minh went the extra mile and really impressed the selection committee.
Gut feeling
Meaning: A reaction based on an emotional response instead of reason
Example: I want this project to work out, but I’ve got a gut feeling we’re doing things the wrong way.
Hang in there
Meaning: Don’t give up, keep on trying
Example: “I’m sorry you’re having a rough day,” Lucas told Olivia. “Hang in there. I’m sure things will be better tomorrow.”
Happy as a clam
Meaning: Very content with a situation
Example: Give her a book, some hot chocolate, and a warm blanket, and she’s happy as a clam.
Hit-or-miss
Meaning: Something that might be good sometimes and bad other times
Example: Anna was a bit hit-or-miss when it came to remembering to take out the trash on Thursdays.
Hit the sack/hit the hay
Meaning: To go to bed
Example: “Nine o’clock!” said Mia’s dad. “It’s time to turn off the TV and hit the sack.”
Hold your horses
Meaning: Slow down, stop and think about what you’re doing
Example: “Hold your horses!” their dad said. “You can’t go swimming until you put on sunscreen.”
Hook, line, and sinker
Meaning: Completely tricked or deceived
Example: I told my teacher the dog ate my homework, and she fell for it hook, line, and sinker.
In the same boat
Meaning: To be in the same bad situation as other people
Example: We’re all in the same boat here; let’s help each other out and fix the problem.
It’s not rocket science
Meaning: Used to describe something that isn’t complicated or difficult
Example: All you have to do is put the books back on the right shelf. It’s not rocket science!
It’s raining cats and dogs
Meaning: To rain very hard
Example: I hope you brought your umbrella. It’s raining cats and dogs out there!
Let someone off the hook
Meaning: To not hold someone responsible for something
Example: Logan was caught running in the hallway, but Ms. Walker let him off the hook because she knew he was late for the bus.
Miss the boat
Meaning: To be too late for something that’s already started or is over
Example: Sarah wanted to join the lacrosse team, but she was too late to sign up and missed the boat.
On cloud nine
We Are Teachers
Meaning: Extremely happy about something
Example: When Wyatt learned he’d gotten a perfect score on both his math and science tests, he was on cloud nine for the rest of the day.
On the ball
Meaning: To be quick and alert, dealing with things right away
Example: Alice got all her homework done and practiced her clarinet before dinner. She’s really on the ball today!
On the same page
Meaning: To agree with someone
Example: I think you and I are on the same page; we both agree that recycling is important.
On thin ice
Meaning: In a risky situation or position
Example: When Mrs. Chen had to ask Ava and Noah to stop talking for the fourth time that day, she warned them both that they were on thin ice.
Out of the blue
Meaning: Suddenly and without warning
Example: Everything was going fine when out of the blue, Joey said they were really mad about something.
Out on a limb
Meaning: To take a risk for someone or something
Example: I’m going to go out on a limb and give them the extra funding they’re asking for.
Piece of cake
Meaning: Extremely easy
Example: Putting the new desk together was a piece of cake.
Pig out
Meaning: To eat a whole lot all at once
Example: Come over for dinner and we’ll pig out on pizza and ice cream.
Play it by ear
Meaning: To figure things out as you go
Example: We didn’t get a schedule in advance, so we’ll just have to play it by ear as the day goes along.
Pleased as punch
Meaning: Extremely happy about something
Example: Tia is pleased as punch about going to Hawaii for spring break.
Pull someone’s leg
Meaning: To tease someone or try to fool them
Example: No, the cafeteria isn’t really giving away free ice cream. I was just pulling your leg!
Pull yourself together
Meaning: To calm yourself down when you’re very upset
Example: I know you’re upset that your team lost the game, but you need to pull yourself together and go congratulate the winners.
Run in circles
Meaning: To try very hard but have little or no success
Example: We’re just running in circles here; we need a plan before we do any more work.
Second wind
Meaning: A fresh burst of energy
Example: Quinn thought she was too tired to go to the party after playing soccer all afternoon, but then she got a second wind.
See eye to eye
Meaning: Agree with someone about something
Example: No matter how long they argued, they couldn’t seem to see eye to eye about painting the room orange.
Sell like hotcakes
Meaning: To sell quickly and in large amounts
Example: The latest iPhone model is selling like hotcakes!
Sleep like a log
Meaning: Sleep very soundly without waking
Example: After a long day at the beach, Jayma slept like a log that night.
Slip your mind
Meaning: To forget something
Example: I meant to do the laundry, but it totally slipped my mind.
Spill the beans
Meaning: To give away a secret
Example: Isabella’s surprise party was ruined when Sarah spilled the beans a few days before.
Start off on the wrong foot
Meaning: To start a relationship or activity badly
Example: After starting off on the wrong foot, Robin and Hayden finally figured out how to work together.
Take a rain check
We Are Teachers
Meaning: To postpone a plan until another time
Example: I’d love to play basketball after school, but I’ve got to go home to mow the lawn. Can I take a rain check?
The ball is in your court
Meaning: The decision or next step is up to you
Example: Nick’s mom told him he could either join the basketball team or sign up for karate class, so he had to choose one. “The ball is in your court,” she said.
The early bird gets the worm
Meaning: Those who arrive first have the best chance for success or receive the best things
Example: Grayson and Jayden showed up to find the best seats in the room already taken. “The early bird gets the worm!” said Maya with a grin.
The elephant in the room
Meaning: A large, obvious issue or problem that people are avoiding mentioning or dealing with
Example: After waiting for Joseph to explain his bright-green hair all through dinner, his mom finally decided it was time to address the elephant in the room.
The icing on the cake
Meaning: Something that makes a good situation even better
Example: The band was excited to learn they’d earned a place in the regional competition. Finding out it would take place at Disney World was the icing on the cake.
The last straw
Meaning: The last in a series of events that causes someone to run out of patience
Example: “That’s the last straw!” said Elena after her little brother’s ball landed in her cereal bowl. “Go play outside!”
The whole nine yards
Meaning: Everything, all the way
Example: Grace and Nora went the whole nine yards to make sure Hannah’s birthday party was really special.
Think on your feet
Meaning: To react quickly in a tricky or fast-moving situation
Example: Dani excels at basketball because she’s so good at thinking on her feet.
Through thick and thin
Meaning: When things are good and also when they’re bad
Example: Sophie and Chloe had been best friends since first grade, sticking together through thick and thin.
Time flies when you’re having fun
Meaning: When you’re having a good time, you don’t notice how quickly the time is passing
Example: “Recess is over already?” said Ben. “I guess time flies when you’re having fun!”
To get bent out of shape
Meaning: To get upset about something
Example: I didn’t mean to step on your foot—there’s no need to get bent out of shape about it.
To make a long story short
Meaning: To give the basic facts about something instead of a long explanation
Example: To make a long story short, Liam tripped over his shoelace and that’s how he broke his wrist.
Under the table
Meaning: To do something secretly, often used to refer to working for pay unofficially (and illegally)
Example: Gabi knew she shouldn’t, but she took a job working under the table so she didn’t have to worry about paying taxes.
Under the weather
Meaning: To be sick
Example: Miguel won’t be at the Scout meeting today because he’s feeling a little under the weather.
Up in arms
We Are Teachers
Meaning: Very angry about something
Example: When they heard the plans to cut down the old oak tree, the townspeople were up in arms.
Up in the air
Meaning: Uncertain or unsettled
Example: Until we know if it’s going to rain or not, our weekend plans are up in the air.
We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it
We Are Teachers
Meaning: If that problem comes up, we’ll deal with it then, not right now
Example: We might have a snow day on Monday, but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
When pigs fly
Meaning: Something that will probably never happen
Example: Would I ever go sky-diving? When pigs fly!
Wild goose chase
Meaning: A senseless or hopeless attempt to do something
Example: They looked all over for a copy of the new video game, but in the end it turned out to be a wild goose chase.
Wrap your head around something
Meaning: To understand something complicated or surprising
Example: It’s hard to wrap your head around just how big the universe is.
You can say that again
Meaning: I completely agree with what you just said
Example: “This pizza is the best food I ever ate!” exclaimed Mateo. “You can say that again!” Dylan agreed.
Your guess is as good as mine
Meaning: When you have no idea what the answer is to a question or problem
Example: “Do you know how to solve number four in our math homework?” Maria asked. “Your guess is as good as mine,” David replied, shrugging his shoulders.
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We’ve all been there: You’re delivering a lecture full of insight, but students haven’t even picked up a pencil. Yes, today’s students expect printouts, class web pages, and graphic organizers, but good old-fashioned note-taking is still a skill they should master. Here’s why, along with some note-taking strategies they should try.
Why is it important for students to have good note-taking skills?
When it comes to learning and remembering information, study after study has shown the importance of actively taking notes rather than passively reading a handout later on. The act of writing engages different parts of the brain, forging new pathways that help students retain information in long-term memory.
What’s more, the studies show that the more detailed the notes, the better. And using different note-taking strategies helps too. In some cases, a general outline can be effective. But when you want students to analyze the content, encouraging charting or mapping can be more helpful.
One more good reason to learn to take notes? It’s a skill we use throughout our entire lives. Most jobs require you to be able to take notes during meetings or other activities so you can refer back to them later on. Adults use note-taking strategies on a regular basis, so teaching kids the skill early on will help them succeed later in life.
Digital vs. Handwritten Notes
There’s a lot of discussion these days about whether handwriting notes is better than typing them on a computer. Some worry that the digital devices themselves serve as too much of a distraction. When kids aren’t taking notes, they might be browsing the web, playing games, or sending each other messages instead of participating in the lesson. Others wonder if typing is less effective than handwriting when it comes to retaining information.
The research is still out on whether handwritten notes are better than digital. Some studies say that handwriting is better for learning, while others note that many people type faster than they write, enabling them to take more complete notes that way. And those who have dysgraphia or other learning disabilities should be able to take notes in the way that suits them best. Read more arguments from both sides here.
Graphic Organizers
Many teachers use what’s called “structured note-taking” in their classrooms. They provide easy-to-read graphic organizers that only require students to write in specific information. Learn more about graphic organizers here.
This is an excellent beginning strategy that enables students to grasp difficult concepts and focus on content and connections. But students should also learn to take notes from scratch. After all, in real life, the most they’re likely to get is a printed agenda for a meeting. They’ll need to know how to capture the important points themselves.
General Tips for Taking Good Notes
Ultimately, what’s most important is that students learn to take notes, period. Whatever method or strategies they choose, the key is having information in their own words they can return to later when they need to review and study. Here are some general tips to share with your students.
Focus on recording the main points of the lesson. Listen for key words and phrases, but don’t try to frantically write everything you hear.
Try to summarize the information in your own words rather than writing down the teacher’s words verbatim. Write your notes in a way that will make sense to you later on.
Jot down words you’re unfamiliar with or confused about and look them up later. Consider circling these words so they’re easy to spot when you’re reviewing your notes later.
Add color, either while you’re taking notes or later on, with a highlighter. Color helps show relationships between concepts, and it engages the brain better too.
Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher to repeat something if you feel like you missed it. If you feel like you can’t interrupt, put a star by that section to remind you to ask about it after class.
If your handwriting is hard to read, or you think you can organize the information in a better way, go ahead and re-copy your notes after class. It’s a good way to reinforce the information too.
Using standard note-taking symbols and abbreviations can be really helpful. There’s no need to memorize all of them at once; choose a few that seem the most useful and give them a try. You can add more as you get better at taking notes. Refer to the chart above for a good list.
Helpful Note-Taking Strategies
The most important thing about learning how to take notes is finding a strategy that works. Each student will have a different favorite strategy, so it’s helpful to expose students to different strategies. These are note-taking strategies that can be used across grade levels and subjects.
For students who have trouble keeping things organized (including their thoughts), the boxing strategy can be very helpful. Each box contains a complete concept, idea, or category. Adding extra colors with pens or highlighters makes things even better. Boxing is a fairly new note-taking strategy, one that’s gained popularity among college students who take notes on digital devices. But it also works well with handwritten notes.
How it works: Start a box on the page, but don’t draw the fourth line on the bottom. Take your notes inside that box, keeping everything relating to one idea or concept together. When you’re finished with that section, draw the final line to close the box, and begin a new one. (If you’re using a tablet or laptop instead, you can draw a text box instead. It will automatically resize as you work.)
When students need to organize, compare and contrast, or categorize, the charting method comes in handy. It’s simple and easy and works well digitally or when taking notes by hand.
How it works: Draw lines to divide the page into columns and rows. Write headers on the columns (and rows, if necessary). As you take notes, put the information into the appropriate place on the chart. It’s that simple.
The Cornell method is more than just a note-taking strategy. It offers tips on how to use notes after class for studying too. Cornell University professor Walter Pauk created this method in the 1950s. Others quickly adopted it, since it’s easy to learn and has been proven to help students learn.
How it works: Divide a page into two columns. The wider column on the right is the Notes column. Here, take concise notes during class, capturing keywords and other important information. Leave space across the bottom of the page or section for the summary, which you’ll complete after class. This is the space for a brief overview of what was covered.
The left-hand column is known as the Cue column. Use it after class to write review questions that relate to the information in your notes. Then, cover up the Notes section and try to answer the questions in the Cue column. Take some time to reflect on the information, making connections and evaluating what you’ve learned. At the end of each week, review all of the notes you’ve taken to reinforce the learning.
The mapping method is terrific for visual learners, as it helps show the connections between main points and supporting details. It’s also helpful for analyzing and evaluating content, rather than just writing it down. Fun fact: Leonardo da Vinci used this method!
How it works: Start by writing a main topic in the middle of the page. If you like, you can use the same color for all your main topics, then switch to different colors as you add and connect subtopics. Continue to add supporting details where they fit, drawing lines and arrows to note connections. Switch to a new page to begin a new main topic.
This is one of the oldest methods of note-taking, and one most kids learn somewhere along the way. You can teach them to use the standard Roman numeral and lettering/numbering system. Or just use bullet points and dashes to simplify things. This logical strategy works well in nearly any subject.
How it works: Start a main topic to the farthest left on the page. Add subtopics and supporting details on the lines beneath, indenting them slightly:
Main Topic
Subtopic
Supporting Detail
Supporting Detail
Subtopic
Supporting Detail
Supporting Detail
Start the next main topic all the way to the left, and continue your notes. Rather than writing long sections, try to keep your notes to just key words and phrases, enough to jog your memory later on.
The sentence method looks similar to the outline method, but it includes much more information. As the name implies, students write full sentences for each line. This requires the ability to write (or type) quickly and is best for students who have mastered both these skills. One benefit to the sentence method is that you’re likely to have more-complete notes to refer to after class.
How it works: Start a topic by writing the main point on one line. On the lines beneath it, add bullet points and a full sentence describing the supporting information. Be sure to use your own words rather than the teacher’s. This ensures you’re fully understanding the information rather than just recording what you hear.
Sketchnotes
Sketchnotes are fairly new but have a real appeal for those who learn best visually. They combine elements of mapping or boxing with meaningful doodles. The colorful result is fun to look at, and some students may retain images better than words.
How it works: There aren’t a lot of rules with sketchnotes. Basically, students should try to capture keywords and important phrases, then add images that help them connect with the topic. Block lettering and other doodles are fun to add too.
The Question/Evidence/Conclusion method of note-taking is a way to organize and record information from lectures. The Q/E/C note-taking method is ideal for subjects in the humanities, such as history, philosophy, and literature. It helps students keep track of how information is being presented, while focusing on the bigger picture.
How it works: Students organize their notes by listening first for the question being addressed. Then, they write the evidence that answers the question. Finally, they draw a conclusion. At the end of a lecture, students can review their notes and have concise summaries of each main topic.
Flow note-taking is a nonlinear way to take notes. Nonlinear note-taking methods ask students to actively engage with the topic that they’re learning about as they listen. Flow note-taking looks similar to mapping, but the idea here is to connect higher-level ideas and how they relate to each other. Students write the topics and draw arrows to indicate how they connect with each other.
The flow note-taking method is active and requires students to think about what they are learning as they learn it. It’s also flexible, and useful in most subjects. It is best when students have some background knowledge, however.
How it works: Students start by writing one main topic. Then, they jot down the next topic and connect the two to show how they are connected. They write the next topic and continue until they have a web.
REAP Method
The REAP method (Read, Encode, Annotate, Ponder) is an active reading note-taking strategy. The idea is that students are engaging with text by reflecting and thinking about their content. Using REAP helps students improve reading comprehension and recall of information. It also builds students’ ability to engage with text and learn how to engage with complex texts.
How it works: Students complete four stages:
Reading the text
Encoding or writing the main ideas of the text in their own words
Annotating of ideas and quotes in the text
Pondering or thinking about the text and writing their reflections or discussing with others.
Watch how to use the REAP method with historical texts:
Similar to REAP, paragraph shrinking is a way to condense and take notes on what students read. This strategy is a good way for students to focus in on the main idea of a text as they read through. It is useful for both fiction and nonfiction texts, but can be particularly helpful when students are working with nonfiction.
How it works: Students read a paragraph or section of text. Then, write the main topic or event in that section in the margin or on a separate page. Then, they shrink the paragraph further by stating the main idea in 10 words or less.
Say what you want about William Shakespeare, but the guy could throw insults like a champ. Sure he was long-winded, invented his own words, and according to BBC he couldn’t even spell his own name properly. But the prolific Playwright sure knew how to put someone down.
We’ve collected some of the most iconic and stinging insults straight from William’s pen.
In 1963, a 16-year-old sent a 4-question survey to 150 well-known authors (75 of which replied) in order to prove to his English tutor that writers don’t intentionally add symbolic content to their books.
For more news on AI in education, visit eSN’s Digital Learning page
In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the advent of AI and ChatGPT has ushered in a new era of academic assistance. As a doctoral student and research writer myself, I have witnessed and experienced the profound impact of these technologies on academic writing. The intersection of AI assistance in student writing is not just about the convenience it brings, but also about the fundamental shift it represents in how we perceive and approach academic integrity and skill development.
A recent survey by Intelligent.com found that nearly one-third of university students have employed AI for coursework, with a significant portion using tools like ChatGPT for over half of their assignments. As Dr. Jörg von Garrel and Professor Jana Mayer reported, a nationwide survey conducted in Germany revealed that almost two-thirds of students use AI tools like ChatGPT in their studies. This widespread usage across disciplines like engineering and natural sciences highlights the versatility of AI in various academic contexts. These statistics alone underscore the pervasiveness of AI in academic environments. However, this trend extends beyond mere usage statistics; it raises deeper questions about the future of writing skills and academic integrity.
My experience aligns with these findings. Utilizing ChatGPT for my academic work has streamlined the research and writing process and presented new learning curves. The tool’s ability to generate sophisticated content necessitates a nuanced understanding of its capabilities and limitations. However, this reliance on AI also raises concerns. Diane Gayeski, a higher education consultant, cautioned against over-reliance on ChatGPT, emphasizing its role as a supplemental tool rather than a standalone learning source. Gayeski’s perspective is crucial in understanding the balance between AI assistance and traditional learning methods.
The varied stances of educational institutions further complicate the situation. Jules White, an associate professor at Vanderbilt University, advocates for explicit policies regarding AI use in course syllabi, underscoring the transformative potential of AI across industries. Vanderbilt University’s proactive approach, including training on ‘prompt engineering,’ illustrates the forward-thinking strategies institutions can adopt.
In my view, the current scenario presents a critical juncture for academia. The increasing use of AI in academic writing signifies a paradigm shift in how students learn and produce scholarly work. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of our educational frameworks, focusing not just on traditional writing skills but also on the adept use of AI tools. The ability to effectively leverage AI and understand its strengths and limitations should become an integral part of modern education.
The future, it seems, is already here; the integration of AI and ChatGPT in academic writing is not a fleeting trend but a fundamental shift in the educational landscape. With a substantial proportion of students turning to AI for academic assistance, the question is no longer about whether to use these tools but how to use them responsibly and effectively.
The academic community must pivot to include AI literacy in its curricula, teaching students how to write and critically engage with and assess AI-generated content. The future of education lies in harmonizing the innovative potential of AI with the enduring values of academic integrity and critical thinking.
Dr. John Johnston, Ed.D. Candidate in Educational Leadership, Capella University
Dr. John Johnston is an experienced and dedicated educator with a Ph.D. in Management and Technology from Walden University, an Ed.D. Candidate in Educational Leadership from Capella University (graduating 2026) and an MBA from Post University. Highly disciplined with a track record of designing programs that foster member-centered learning, with experience as Senior Management/Founder at Vapour Inc. and President of Cellular International Inc.
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Dr. John Johnston, Ed.D. Candidate in Educational Leadership, Capella University
Don’t fight AI–learn to embrace it for teaching and learning
Using AI will help quell fears about how it could harm education
See related article: Navigating generative AI: Promoting academic integrity
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You’ve heard all the news about kids using ChatGPT to cheat, but there’s another side to this story. Just as the internet revolutionized education, AI will be the next game-changer. While the fears of cheating have definitely been legitimate, have you actually tried writing an essay using just AI? Hate to say it, but the outcomes aren’t instant gratification.
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Education is changing because the world is changing. During the pandemic, teachers and students rapidly adopted new tools to pivot to remote and hybrid learning.
Now in his 10th year of teaching, John Arthur’s students have gained national recognition as champions for children and immigrants like them through music videos and other digital content they create and share across platforms.
I believe that the low supply of STEM professionals can be attributed to significant barriers to entry originating in educational settings–this is to no fault of teachers and administrators, but how the educational system is structured.
The benefits of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education are numerous, and one would be hard-pressed to find a school district that doesn’t have a project, initiative, class, or lesson with the acronym in its title.
Prior to the pandemic, reading achievement had been showing little to no growth. Scores have continued to decline, in part because of pandemic-related learning interruptions.
Indiana is in the midst of an enormous undertaking to improve literacy rates. The approach: Align state standards, curriculum, and teacher training programs with practices rooted in the science of reading.
When it comes to digital equity, U.S. schools are well-positioned to help families get online with low-cost, high-speed internet options through the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program
Mentorship is an essential aspect of professional growth and development for early childhood educators, but for many training programs, mentorship components are either not well supported or are missing altogether.
Educators face myriad dilemmas in the wake of ChatGPT’s explosion, with some of the most popular including teaching with ChatGPT and how to address student use of AI chatbots in assignments.
Belonging is a fundamental human need. We are all searching for a sense of connection with the people and places in our lives. Students and school staff are no different.
Writers use figurative language like metaphors to bring their writing to life. But what exactly is a metaphor (and how is it different from a simile)? Learn more about this literary device, and get metaphor examples and teaching ideas for your students.
What is a metaphor?
A metaphor is a literary device that draws a comparison between two otherwise unrelated things. It’s used to make an idea more relatable to the reader, or to evoke an emotional response. Metaphors often use hyperbole, or exaggerated language, to paint a vivid picture.
Example: Today’s history exam was a total nightmare.
Metaphors are examples of figurative language, where the words are meaningful but not strictly true. In the above example, the speaker doesn’t mean that they fell asleep during their exam and had a nightmare. Instead, they’re drawing a comparison between the two to help the reader understand how terrible the experience was.
Metaphor vs. Analogy
Metaphors are similar to another literary device, the analogy. However, a metaphor is used to evoke feeling and emotion. A writer uses an analogy to help the reader draw a logical conclusion. If you’re trying to figure out if a phrase is a metaphor or an analogy, ask whether it’s meant to provoke an emotional reaction or help a reader understand something through logic.
Metaphor: Time is a remorseless river.
Analogy: Time is like a rapid river, flowing remorselessly onward. Trying to swim upstream is futile; you must simply go where the currents take you.
Metaphor vs. Simile
To add to the confusion, similes are another type of figurative language comparison used as a literary device. In a simile, though, the writer uses the words “like” or “as” rather than making a direct comparison.
Metaphor: The sound of her voice was music to their ears.
This is the most basic type of metaphor, in which the writer simply makes a stated comparison between two unrelated things.
Standard metaphor example: Racism is a fatal disease for our society.
The direct comparison here is between racism and a disease, bluntly stated and easy to identify.
Implied
Implied: In an implied metaphor, the writer is more subtle, using imagery to evoke the comparison between two things.
Implied metaphor example: It was time for Elijah to spread his wings and fly.
By using language about wings and flying, the author implies a metaphor between Elijah and a bird.
Visual
In a visual metaphor, an image replaces or reinforces the words. This classic public service announcement from the 1980s is an excellent visual metaphor example:
Extended
As the name implies, an extended metaphor is more than just one sentence. It can be a series of lines in poetry, or a theme carried through paragraphs (or an entire book) in prose. Analogies can seem like extended metaphors, but remember that analogies are meant to help the reader draw logical conclusions, while metaphors provoke an emotional response.
Extended metaphor example: “The dim attic was a forgotten lifetime. Cobwebs in the corners were shadowy memories, and rusty locked trunks held the passed years. A layer of soft dust lay over all, a blanket of lamented time gone by.”
Each sentence in this paragraph extends the metaphorical connection between the attic and a life lived long ago.
Dead
The term “dead metaphor” can be used in several ways, but it generally means a metaphorical expression that has lost its power over time. This might be because the original meaning of a word has changed or that it has fallen out of use. A dead metaphor can also be an overused cliche, one that we’ve all heard so often it no longer has much impact.
Dead metaphor example: That remark was really beyond the pale.
You’ve probably heard this phrase, but do you know what it actually means? Many years ago, “the pale” referred to a wooden stake used to mark a boundary line. To say something was “beyond the pale” meant that it crossed an accepted boundary. This phrase is still used today, though few know what it actually means, making it a dead metaphor.
Mixed Metaphors
What about the phrase “mixed metaphors”? Once again, the clue is in the name: A mixed metaphor is when the writer or speaker mixes two comparisons into one metaphor, making things more confusing instead of clearer. Mixed metaphors are often combinations of well-known phrases.
We’ll cross that bridge when the ball is in our court.
This sentence combines two common metaphors. The first, “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” compares dealing with an issue or making a decision to crossing a bridge. The second, “The ball is in our court,” makes a connection between taking your turn in a ball game and dealing with an issue or a decision. Put together, the two frankly sound a little bit silly, so strong writers try to avoid mixing metaphors.
General Metaphor Examples
We Are Teachers / RitaE via Pixabay
Tom is the black sheep of his family.
The vast parking lot was a Sahara under the relentless sun.
As the children started to work, the classroom became a beehive of activity.
Laughter is the best medicine.
Time is a thief, stealing moments away before we know it.
Her smile was a lighthouse, guiding him safely across the crowded room.
Li’s anger was a volcano, ready to erupt at any moment.
Romance is the key to her heart.
Olivia’s words were sharp daggers, cutting Jordan down to size.
To Leslie, the vacant lot was a blank canvas, waiting to be turned into a beautiful park.
Your bedroom is a pigsty—clean it up!
A storm of emotions brewed deep inside, under Juan’s calm exterior.
Life is a journey, so enjoy each step along the way.
Her shrill laugh was nails on a chalkboard to me.
Love is a rose, with sweet fragrance and sharp thorns.
If I’m going to get all this work done on time, I’ll need to be a real machine today.
With our boss out of town for the week, this place is a real circus.
As she watched him sing, April’s face was an open book.
Assad’s eyes were deep pools, drawing him in.
Layla’s pride is her armor, protecting her from all attacks.
Metaphor Examples From Literature
We Are Teachers / aled7 via Pixabay
“I’m a riddle in nine syllables.” (“Metaphors” by Sylvia Plath)
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” (As You Like It by William Shakespeare)
Kids will love this creative activity where they write color metaphors on paint chip samples. Hang a bulletin board full of them, and you’ll have a vivid metaphor display for the classroom!
This one is great for middle or high school, since it can be a bit tough. Each student draws a slip of paper with a random word or phrase on it. Then they partner up and try to create a metaphor that links their two words together.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
In our digital age driven by content consumption, entrepreneurs and business executives are constantly seeking ways to elevate their brands and establish themselves as industry influencers. When you’re recognized as an influencer, your opinions, insights and recommendations carry more weight, positioning you as a trusted source of valuable information in your field. It also increases your brand’s visibility and recognition. As your insights reach a wider audience, you and your brand gain exposure, attracting potential customers, partners and collaborators.
One important way to broaden your reach as an influencer is to write and publish a book. As a seasoned C-suite executive and entrepreneur in the publishing industry, I’ve personally experienced and observed the powerful impact of becoming an author. There’s probably no better way to boost your and your brand’s credibility and authority. In this article, we’ll explore why writing a book trumps all other means when it comes to brand elevation.
When it comes to brand elevation, there are a variety of different ways to achieve success. As a lifelong book publisher, I’ve observed five ways becoming an author will increase your reach.
First, authoring a book requires in-depth research, analysis and a thorough exploration of your subject matter. The process compels you to dive deep into your field, fostering a comprehensive understanding that goes well beyond surface-level knowledge. This depth of expertise is evident in your writing, positioning you as an authoritative figure in your industry. It gives evidence that you indeed are a subject matter authority. You’ll also appear on bookselling websites, including Amazon, helping to expand your reach.
Second, publishing a book inherently carries a sense of authority and credibility. A book is a representation of your knowledge and insights, establishing you as a thought leader. Your position as an author commands respect, and readers are more likely to view you as an expert in your field compared to a podcast host, a blogger or social media influencer. A published book is a tangible asset that you can hold in your hands and showcase on your shelves. This physical representation of your expertise serves as a lasting reminder of your accomplishments and a powerful conversation starter in professional settings.
Third, books are perceived as valuable resources that people pay money for. Readers often associate authors with wisdom, experience and the ability to offer solutions to their challenges. This perception of value can lead to increased interest in your brand and a higher willingness to engage with your products or services. Books are also less fleeting in nature compared to other digital content because they have a timeless quality. Once published, your book remains available to readers indefinitely, allowing you to consistently reach new audiences over the years.
Fourth, the media often seeks out authors for interviews, expert opinions and feature stories. Being an author can open doors to media exposure that podcasts might not offer to the same extent. Media coverage can significantly expand your brand’s reach and visibility. I’ve worked with hundreds of authors who landed appearances on regional and even national TV and radio, not to mention on podcasts and in print. Program producers are regularly looking for authors to book as guests on their shows, sometimes helping you find new customers and generating more income.
Finally, the process of writing a book encourages thoughtful reflection and refinement of your ideas. This careful consideration translates into content that is well-structured, coherent and impactful — qualities that resonate with readers seeking valuable information. Authors often become synonymous with their ideas, creating a strong connection between their personal brand and their work. This connection can enhance your brand identity, making it more memorable and recognizable in your industry.
Think of the books you’ve read that have influenced your life. You can probably point to at least a few that made a significant impact in your personal life and at work. Their words have shaped your perspectives, inspired new ideas and guided you through challenges. Becoming an author yourself offers the opportunity to join their ranks — to create a lasting legacy that resonates with readers. Just as you’ve been impacted by the wisdom and insights shared in the books you read, imagine the potential to leave a profound imprint on others.
The depth of expertise, authority and perceived value associated with authorship, coupled with the timelessness and media opportunities it offers, make writing a book a superior choice for entrepreneurs and business executives aiming to enhance their brand’s reputation and reach. So, if you’re looking to solidify your position as an industry leader, consider picking up the pen and writing a book that will stand as a testament to your expertise for years to come. Today’s technologies also make it a fast, easy and affordable way to elevate your brand. And once you’re an author, you’ll always be an author.
Whether you are a business owner, a social media influencer, a budding entrepreneur or someone simply trying to get their first copywriting job, knowing how to write clear and compelling copy is critical to your success.
Copywriting is another marketing tool to add to your advertising strategy; correctly written copy can make or break your marketing campaign.
Continue reading for everything you need to know about copywriting and how to improve your copywriting skills to write excellent copy.
What is copywriting?
Copywriting is the fundamental process of writing a copy. Now, you’re probably wondering what copy is, right?
Copy is written work mainly to help sell a product or service or promote a company’s brand.
Copywriting encompasses many different avenues. It can include:
With a form of copywriting being just about everywhere you look these days, it isn’t surprising that most businesses are taking advantage of this form of advertising.
Continue reading for nine examples of copywriting and what copywriting strategies you can implement into your writing.
1. Marketing copywriting
Marketing copywriting is typically the form of copywriting that most people are aware of.
Some types of marketing copywriting include:
Online digital marketing ads.
YouTube videos and podcasts.
Radio and TV commercials.
Flyers.
Billboards.
Branded stickers.
Direct mail.
This type of copy can be done through paid ads or traditional marketing strategies.
Marketing copywriting is compelling, clear and concise; the goal is to sell something.
With numerous social media sites available, it is essential when planning your social media copy to use your research skills to figure out where your target audience tends to spend most of their time when planning your social media copy.
Great copywriters narrow down which social media sites they want to focus on, then they can write the copy accordingly.
Social media copywriting differs from other copy in a few ways.
Below are a few of the ways it is different than other copywriting types:
Emojis are regularly used in the copy.
It is written in a more informal tone.
The copy almost always accompanies a visual aspect.
The ad might be a paid ad stretching across numerous platforms.
The copy then redirects the reader to a website’s landing page.
Writing effective copy that communicates the brand’s message is of the utmost importance in brand copywriting.
When writing this type of copy, it can help to keep the brand’s main image and brand voice in mind. This can come from a logo, their theme song, a common phrase they use or even one of their company traits.
For brand copywriting to do its job, the customer must be the first thing you think about.
It is essential to know who your target audience is, and you can gain insight into this by utilizing the following:
This type of copywriting can be used in numerous different ways, including:
Landing pages after the customer clicks on an ad.
Open-ended emails.
Pop-ups.
Special limited-time offers.
When a customer is on a webpage, and a pop-up appears on the screen before they change or leave the page, this is another form of direct response copywriting.
This method is effective as it helps entice them to stay on the page by compelling them to sign up for something the company offers.
This involves writing copy where the primary purpose is to explain the technology and provide a detailed product description to the reader to help sell a specific product.
To sell a technical product, the copy has to explain to the reader what it is, how it works and why they should buy it.
Once the customer fully understands the product and its benefits, they can decide whether to purchase it or not.
As the technology industry continuously evolves, technical copywriters are essential to help the tech industry advance.
Public relations copywriting is used to help inform media outlets and the public regarding a business, product or service.
Often written by a publicist, this type of copy usually details an event the business hosts and is shared with different media outlets.
Public relations copy primarily aims to form a more personal relationship with the public and other organizations instead of just getting the business’s message across using radio and TV advertising.
7. Thought leadership copywriting
This type of copywriting is slightly different.
Thought leadership copywriting is a type of copy written by a content writer who is a prominent and well-respected member of that industry.
For example, if a prominent attorney wrote an article recommending that everyone add a specific clause to their Will to help ensure it is legal and binding, that article would be considered to be thought leadership copywriting.
The main difference between this type of copywriting and others is that it isn’t selling or promoting a product but instead tries to compel the reader to believe a specific idea.
With SEO copywriting, the main goal is to utilize specific keywords and phrases that search engines can find to help bring that particular copy to the top of the search results.
A sales page can be advanced in the search engine results (SERP) if done correctly.
Once you have decided to add copywriting to your business’s marketing campaign or branch out into a new and exciting copywriting career, you will want to ensure success.
Continue reading for seven copywriting tips on how to become a successful copywriter.
In-depth knowledge of your client
If you are writing for a client rather than your own business, in-depth knowledge of their company is vital in helping them reach their goals.
To do this, it is a good idea to research their industry, including their competitors and how your client fits in.
The next step to writing good copy is to look at your client’s information to get a feel for their brand and the tone they use.
This can include looking at their:
Webpages.
Reports.
Documents.
Brochures and catalogs.
Press release information.
Social media pages.
Once you have done that, it never hurts to check out their competitor’s content to see how other copywriters tackle some of the common challenges you might face in that particular industry.
This step is crucial in becoming a successful copywriter.
You need to know your prospective customer in and out to target that specific demographic best.
To do this, talk to prospective customers. If that isn’t an option, you can also check out online conversations on bulletin boards, social media pages or wherever your target audience tends to spend most of their time online.
Things you are going to want to keep an eye out for to get more clicks and subscribers are:
What motivates your target audience?
What problems do they face that the company you are writing for can help solve?
When you are working with your client, being flexible is critical.
As a professional copywriter, you need to have confidence in yourself and your writing abilities but also know that your writing represents your client’s business and therefore has to be approved and written using their brand voice.
Write regularly
Practicing it regularly is a surefire way to improve your writing skills and fine-tune your craft.
The best copywriters get in the habit of writing every day as it helps keep the creative juices flowing and helps perfect their talent.
What happens if you don’t have a work project every day?
No problem. Simply writing in a journal, on your social media page or even on your personal blog can do the trick.
To become a successful copywriter, you need to track your results.
You need to know what strategies are working in getting the reader’s attention and which aren’t so you can adjust your writing style accordingly.
Learning how to track the data and analytics and figure out your conversion rates can help you produce great copy, which in turn benefits you and your client.
What is a white paper?
In the world of copywriting, a white paper is an extensive report or guide on a specific topic and includes the problems typically associated with it.
A white paper’s main purpose is to educate the reader and help them understand and solve these problems.
Companies use white papers to communicate their thoughts on a specific topic, making a case for why their product is the best option or presenting their research findings on a particular topic to their readers.
While previously mainly used by government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, consultancies and financial institutions, white papers have since seen a boom in other industries due to content marketing.
Any company that utilizes content marketing can benefit from also producing white papers.
Types of white papers
There are numerous different types of white papers that companies can use to help promote their business.
Two main types of white papers include:
The first type is the backgrounder, where the product or service’s benefits are explained to the reader.
The second type uses a problem-solving approach where a problem is mentioned, and a solution is provided.
What is a freelance copywriter?
While a specific company can hire you to produce their copy, you can also branch out and become a freelance copywriter.
Freelance copywriters can find their work by networking with potential clients or through certain agencies. You can also find freelance work on online job sites such as LinkedIn.
Being a freelance copywriter allows you to work in numerous different industries.
From fashion to agriculture to technology, you can work with clients in various fields, which keeps things exciting as there is always something new to learn.
Copywriting opens the door to exciting new possibilities
Whether you decide to work for a single company or you want to branch out into the exciting world of freelance copywriting, the job options are endless.
You can specialize in social media, technical or marketing copywriting. You can even work in numerous fields to keep things interesting.
When you decide on a career in copywriting, you open the door to a new world of exciting possibilities.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Have you ever thought about writing a book? Believe it or not, most people have thought about writing a book, but very few people follow through with it.
I ended up writing my book for fun, but I had no idea how many doors it would open for me. Not only has it opened doors for me professionally, but it also made it easier for me to make friends and date — and I’ve also been able to use it as a tool to get into certain rooms I usually wouldn’t have access to.
In this article, I’m going to share how I accidentally wrote a book and how I was able to accelerate my professional career with it.
Writing a book is a huge commitment. Most books on the market have between 30,00 to 50,000 words, so writing a book by accident makes no sense.
Luckily for me, I was good at keeping a digital journal. In this digital journal, I documented the lows and highs of starting a company in my parents’ basement. In this journal, I wrote everything I learned, the mistakes I made and everything else in between.
At a certain point, I looked at my entire journal and realized it was enough to turn it into a book. Over the next two weeks, I put together a book cover and immediately ordered a marketing copy (an empty book for marketing purposes).
Once my marketing copy came in, I hired a photographer for a photo shoot and rebranded my entire online presence to pre-sell and build up hype for the book.
As I did this, I noticed some interesting things I initially never expected:
I started getting job offers (and accepted one)
One thing I did not expect from writing and marketing my book online was that companies would approach me with job offers for marketing and writing. I wasn’t getting dozens of offers each week, but once or twice a week, a new opportunity would make its way to me, specifically through social media.
This started to happen after I began marketing my book on Instagram. I took a part-time copywriting gig in mid-2022 and recently accepted a Chief Marketing Officer position at a commercial real estate company. All of these opportunities arose because of my book.
My book “pre-sold” me and made me stand out. It got me in the door. All I had to do was attend the interview and close the deal.
Writing a book, especially within your expertise, is a great way to shoot your credibility through the roof. After I started publicly marketing my book online, I felt way more comfortable and confident charging exactly what I’m worth.
I already accumulated the skills and portfolio, but having a book helped me feel more confident when asking for those prices.
Whenever I am faced with objections, I noticed that they are more focused on the price, delivery of service and fear of taking action. I get fewer objections on the topic of credibility.
Networking is a million times easier
One thing that has gotten significantly easier after writing a book is networking. Not only have I been able to meet lots of cool and high-profile people online through platforms such as Instagram and Twitter, but I’ve also been able to connect with people in person as well.
One of my favorite tricks is bringing a physical copy of my book everywhere I go. Naturally, as I go through my day, people ask me, “Oh, what book are you reading?” This serves as the perfect transition for me to dive into the book I wrote and get more into exactly what I do.
These conversations lead to us exchanging contact information and potentially working together in the future. I’ve also been able to make lots of friends this way as well.
Publicly advertising my book online has made it easier for me to attract and land speaking opportunities. Having a book is a great way to boost your credibility, but speaking about the book can open many doors as well. These doors include:
Plus so much more!
Getting book sales is amazing, but there is even more money to be made on the back end through various things such as speaking events, workshops, interviews, etc.
As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I never planned to write a book. It all happened accidentally, but I’m grateful I did it because the benefits are amazing — especially the professional benefits.
Don’t get me wrong: Writing a book takes some work and requires quite a bit of sacrifice. But if you want to take your professional career or life to the next level, you should highly consider writing a book. You’d be surprised as to where it will take you.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
2023 started with ChatGPT setting the internet on fire — a good fire, but a conflagration, nonetheless. Everyone got excited as they explored, tested and pushed OpenAI’s artificial intelligence tool.
The program’s native ability to respond to questions and provide answers has been nothing short of extraordinary. (You’re probably wondering at this point if it even wrote this intro — which, to be clear, it did not.)
Nevertheless, ChatGPT’s ability to construct texts that read with a natural, human flow is uncanny. It’s the kind of potential that gets managers and entrepreneurs alike to sit up and pay attention.
The question is, if you’re considering using ChatGPT for your team or business, how should you put that desire into practice? Here are a few suggestions for realistic ways you can unlock the potential of ChatGPT for your business’s content needs.
1. As always, start with expectations
Yes, we’re going to start with a “set expectations” primer before we get into the meat of the issue. Why? Because this is a tool where expectations are particularly relevant.
Many want to use ChatGPT as a magic bullet. Why pay salaried writers or invest tens of thousands of dollars a year into a stable of freelancers? With ChatGPT, you can get free, auto-generated texts that read better than a lot of blogs that are out there on the interweb. Who’s going to notice the difference (besides your accountant)?
But the reality is that while it’s a huge step forward, ChatGPT isn’t a comprehensive solution for text-based content creation. On the contrary, in a sense, all it’s doing is regurgitating data from the web, the same way Google has for years. In this case, the delivery is simply in a more approachable, paraphrased format.
This is helpful for readability. But it should also be a caution to those considering throwing all of their eggs into the ChatGPT basket. Writing for The New Yorker, Ted Chiang addresses this subtle weakness when he says, “The fact that ChatGPT rephrases material from the Web instead of quoting it word for word makes it seem like a student expressing ideas in her own words, rather than simply regurgitating what she’s read; it creates the illusion that ChatGPT understands the material.”
Chiang goes on to point out that this ability to repackage data doesn’t imply learning or inherent understanding, “In human students, rote memorization isn’t an indicator of genuine learning, so ChatGPT’s inability to produce exact quotes from Web pages is precisely what makes us think that it has learned something. When we’re dealing with sequences of words, lossy compression looks smarter than lossless compression.”
To put it another way, ChatGPT may be a great way to present information creatively. And there are certainly ways to use that to your advantage. But all the program is doing is repackaging pre-existing data. This doesn’t lead to high-quality final drafts. Instead, it should be used at the beginning of the creative process (more on that in a minute).
2. Inform ChatGPT if you want it to inform your readers
The other important thing to consider when unlocking the potential of ChatGPT isn’t what it can give you but rather what you’re bringing to the table. If you come up with a half-baked idea or an uninformed suggestion, it can discolor the results.
Think of it in the context of working with a freelance writer. In most cases, you hire a writer because they have a knack for presenting information in a relatable and accessible manner. Unless you’re dealing with a niche situation, few hiring managers expect writers to be subject matter experts (SMEs) on the topics they’re writing about.
They’re experts at writing. That’s why they’re helping you. If you want that arrangement to succeed, you need to ensure that they have the data required to create an informed piece of content. This can come from you. It could come from partnering them up with an SME. It could come from paying them extra to research a subject in depth. Regardless, you need to make sure they have the right information needed before you expect them to write something worth reading.
Providing detailed prompts
The same goes for ChatGPT. You want to present the program with thoughtful, complete prompts if you want a good result. SEO and content platform MarketMuse’s Senior Content Strategist, Stephen Jeske, speaks to this concept,
“Well-structured prompts are critical to getting good output from a large language model like ChatGPT.”
Jeske adds that this process doesn’t just mean you include the right data points. You also need to figure out what your readers are asking by using tools like MarketMuse’s Questions Data, “Part of that involves making sure the output answers important questions — the type a reader would want answered when consuming that content. MarketMuse data, like that available in Questions, can make that happen.”
If you want to unlock the full potential of ChatGPT, you need to put in your homework first. Yes, you don’t have to compose a 500-word article on a topic. But make sure you clearly understand the information and questions that you’re trying to answer before you have the program compose any text.
3. Use ChatGPT as a jumping-off point
Finally, make sure that you’re using ChatGPT as a way to kickstart the creative process, not complete it. The program’s strength lies in the beginnings, not the polished final copy.
Don’t treat ChatGPT as a free pass. Instead, use its abilities to streamline content creation by:
Brainstorming topic ideas.
Creating outlines for human writers to follow.
At most, composing “first drafts” of text that a writer can significantly alter through editing activity.
If you can do your research, find the right questions you want to answer, and use the tool to grease the wheels of the creative process, you can unlock the potential of ChatGPT to truly impact your business. Just remember that everything starts with your expectations. Don’t treat AI as a hack. Instead, utilize it as a tool — one might even say a partner — that you can collaborate with to take your content creation to the next level.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our world in myriad ways, and one of its most significant impacts is on the lives of people with disabilities. AI-driven programs like ChatGPT are helping to bridge communication gaps, facilitate access to information and foster independence for individuals with various impairments.
While AI has many applications, today we will explore five ways AI is capable of helping people who disabilities may hinder work more efficiently and comfortably.
As someone who was diagnosed with ADD as a child, I have found AI to be a great tool for staying organized. For individuals with cognitive impairments, memory loss or conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), staying organized and remembering essential tasks can be a daily struggle. In these instances, artificial intelligence, particularly AI programs like ChatGPT, can serve as a valuable and personalized assistant. Some of the ways I have personally used ChatGPT that have personally helped me are:
Customizable reminders: ChatGPT can be programmed to deliver personalized reminders for a wide range of essential tasks, such as taking medication, attending appointments, or completing daily chores. By tailoring these reminders to each user’s specific needs and preferences, AI-driven chatbots can help users better manage their schedules and responsibilities.
Motivation and encouragement: In addition to providing practical organizational support, ChatGPT can be set up also to offer motivational messages and encouragement to users as they work towards their goals. This emotional support can be invaluable in helping individuals overcome challenges and stay committed to their personal growth and development.
Routine establishment: Establishing routines can be critical for individuals with cognitive impairments, as routines can provide structure and stability. ChatGPT can assist users in developing and maintaining daily, weekly or monthly routines, offering guidance and support to help them adapt to new habits and stay on track.
Communication is essential for everyone, and AI chatbots like ChatGPT can significantly improve it for people with hearing or speech impairments. By converting speech to text and vice versa, these chatbots enable seamless communication, allowing users to engage in conversations with ease and participate in social interactions they might have otherwise found challenging.
Various disabilities may hinder one’s ability to communicate how they want to. However, GPT 4 is now available to the public and streamlining effective communication just got easier for everyone. People across multiple categories may have difficulty speaking, communicating effectively or expressing themselves properly.
However, with the assistance of AI, disabled people can utilize GPT4 to help them communicate more effectively, provide clarity and offer communicative insights that help disabled people efficiently express themselves and their ideas with ease.
3. Reading and writing assistance
AI chatbots can make reading and writing more accessible for individuals with visual impairments, dyslexia or fine motor skill difficulties. By reading aloud text-based content or providing writing suggestions, ChatGPT can help users compose emails, essays and other documents with greater ease and efficiency.
It is well known that AI is also a great writing tool and thus can help disabled people write easier. While some argue that AI is taking jobs away, some might see it as an opportunity to create more job opportunities for disadvantaged and marginalized people. As a business owner diagnosed with ADD, I can say that using AI has helped me with proofreading, spelling and writing.
AI can be a valuable assistant for those with cognitive impairments or memory loss. ChatGPT can be programmed to remind users of essential tasks, such as taking medication, attending appointments or completing daily chores.
This support can be instrumental in helping users maintain their daily routines and stay organized. Isolation and loneliness can be significant issues for people with disabilities, especially those with mobility or communication challenges.
GPT-based AI technology can provide companionship through conversation, offering a listening ear and comforting responses. This interaction can be a source of solace and help alleviate feelings of isolation.
AI-driven programs can play a vital role in helping students with disabilities access education. By answering questions, providing explanations and offering alternative learning materials, ChatGPT can serve as an invaluable resource for learners who may require additional support or accommodations. Everybody learns differently, and as someone who has personally faced the challenges of a learning disability, I can affirm that the way I process information is different.
AI can assist as a resource of information, and GPT4 can break down information in different ways, depending on what is asked of it. For instance, you could ask chat GPT to help explain an idea or curriculum to somebody who has a learning disability in a specific way, or educators could use a guy to come up with creative ways to help people with learning disabilities excel.
Artificial intelligence programs like ChatGPT can make a remarkable difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities (Myself included). By empowering people with enhanced communication, greater independence, and increased access to essential information and resources, AI is breaking down barriers and opening up new possibilities for those who may have previously faced significant challenges.
As we embrace AI technology and continue to explore its vast potential, we must remain committed to developing inclusive and accessible solutions that can help all members of our society thrive. By doing so, we can work together to create a more equitable and connected world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their abilities.
One great way to think about the current capabilities of AI is instead of comparing it to a search engine, think about something like ChatGPT as a thinking engine, where instead of it merely being a means to discover and search for data, it is also a technology that allows users to search for ways to think. AI isn’t perfect, but it certainly has positive use cases that have the potential to help those in need greatly.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
The internet is good at cataloging things — but it had a blind spot for creators.
That’s something Evan Britton noticed back in 2012. He thought about how, if someone achieves news-making status, they’ll get a Wikipedia page. If they appear briefly in a movie, they’ll be cataloged in IMDb. But what if they rack up 2 million TikTok followers? Back then, there was nowhere to list that person. Nowhere a fan could go to learn more.
Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.
As a business owner, you may have your hands in many different projects. Without some help, planning, executing, and organizing all of them may be challenging. Improper project management is what causes some businesses to waste as much as 11% of their resources.
Keep all of your projects organized with Scrivener. This intuitive writing tool could help you draft out your next writing project, break it down into actionable parts, and keep it all organized on a project outline, and it’s only $29.99 for a lifetime subscription.
This writing aid helps you structure your ideas, pull in useful reference points, and even share across your team. Start composing text in any order, with customizable sections you can move as needed. If you’re a visual thinker, seeing your whole project plan arranged in front of you may make it easier to conceptualize. And if best-selling authors can use Scrivener to organize a novel, then you may be able to use it to organize your ideas into manageable parts.
If one stage of a project requires client or customer outreach or a memo to the team, write it up in Scrivener and attach them to the appropriate project stage. It’s a great way to keep everything organized to maximize efficiency.
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Streamline your writing process with a lifetime subscription to Scrivener 3 for just $29.99 (reg. $59), which is a best-on-web price! Choose from the following:
