Read Time: 4 minutes
Do it.
Please…
There, I just gave you one mind trick in the above lines.
I just gave you another.
Are they working?
I just did it again.
Fine. No more games.
Because you’re here to unlock the writing secrets that compel reading spells.
So without further theatrics, I’m jumping into six harmless mind tricks that make readers love your writing:
1. Hook Readers Using the Power of Wonder
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but the humans get thrilled with curiosity.
Influence your audience with their intense desire to know more by adding curiosity to your opening lines.
For instance, the first sentence of this piece reads, “Do it.” And most humans wonder, “Do what?”
That small window of curiosity is all you need to get people to look for the next line.
And when you get them to read the next line, then you can deliver another line for their inquiring mind.
Yes, do it, please. Breed curiosity to make them keep reading.
Make them wonder.
They’ll love it.
2. Use Short Sentences + Paragraphs
Short sentences are easy to read.
And the white space around them helps people feel like they’re reading faster, too.
Yes, white space like this. →
Also, short paragraphs help prevent people from scanning your writing.
Keep it punchy.
Because frequent line breaks encourage people to consume every word you put on the page.
So try writing things short and sweet.
It gives the reader a perception of quick progress.
And they love advancing fast.
3. Command the Page to Control the Narrative
People listen to other people who communicate in complete confidence.
Even when the person communicating is an idiot.
Even when the person is wrong.
Even when the person is evil.
It’s a bit twisted, but it happens all the time.
Because most people have not yet learned how to lead — so most people follow other leaders — yet leaders often self-ordain themselves with authority because no one else will fight for it.
So you must assign yourself a certain level of dominance on the page.
You must assert yourself as an authority between the lines.
Most people like it when someone takes charge.
Many people find it attractive.
Some people love it.
4. Speak to One Reader at a Time
Don’t write for the masses, create for the one.
I’m only thinking of you as I type these words. And only you are reading these words right now.
We share a unique connection through this page.
I’m working to create this connection by addressing you, the reader. I’m directing my attention toward a sole person, you.
This approach should make sense because you’re not thinking of anyone else while reading right now.
So why should I think of anyone else other than you when writing?
These words are meant for me and you.
Yes, I heart you, too.
5. Allure Audiences with Amazing Alliteration
Curate and create content that connects your community.
Publish perspectives that please your online populous.
Okay, maybe too much alliteration can over-produce your message.
Alternatively, alliteration can earn an abundance of adoration.
Because alliteration focuses readers’ attention using sound patterns. Alliterative beats create a rhythm and style that make similar sounds click.
Alliteration is a love language in itself.
Learn it and readers will love you for it.
6. Share a Personal Story
- “My pants malfunctioned in the bathroom.”
- “My best friend no showed my wedding.”
- “I’m going to tell you something I’ve never shared with my wife.”
Those are all opening lines I’ve used to jumpstart blog posts.
I’ve shared many personal stories about failures and misfires, and each tale provided an opportunity to broadcast my imperfections.
I presented these faults to connect with readers because I knew, like me, they also possess imperfections.
Except I also know most people hate letting others see their flaws.
But I also know most people love to be reassured by seeing other people’s flaws.
So I take the first step in the relationship by sharing my flaws, which in turn, helps readers connect with my slowly improving Self.
The first date may be awkward, but it can still become love nonetheless.
Well, there you have it — six approaches that urge readers to fall in love with your writing.
Mix with caution.
Brew with truth.
Wield with wisdom.
Because these schemes require responsibility when tricking minds.
That’s it for this Saturday, one piece of artwork to help you reach your creative potential..
If you found value in this post, would you consider sharing it? Maybe you’ll be helping someone create the story they’ve always wanted to write.
See ya next week!
— David