What is a Blog?

Logo for WordPress.

First, WordPress can be a bit daunting.  One question that comes up quite frequently is:  What is a blog?

So let’s start with some definitions:

a Web site that contains online personal reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer; also:  the contents of such a site

blog verb
blogger noun
blogging noun

~ Merriam-Webster

and

“Blog” is an abbreviated version of “weblog,” which is a term used to describe websites that maintain an ongoing chronicle of information. A blog features diary-type commentary and links to articles on other websites, usually presented as a list of entries in reverse chronological order. Blogs range from the personal to the political, and can focus on one narrow subject or a whole range of subjects.

~ WordPress Codex

Blogs have some common features:

  • Articles are listed in reverse chronological order.  Your most current post is at the top.  Since your posts are timely, they encourage conversation.
    • Articles are often organized by category.
  • Blogs will often have an archive of older articles.
  • Blogs will often have links to other related sites or website pages.

What can be in a blog?

Short answer: anything.  Anything you love or enjoy talking about or doing and want to share that information or experiences can be in a blog.  Do you love cross country trips or cross country skiing and want to talk about it?  Maybe you are a history buff and want to share what you are learning about your subject matter.  Are you learning a new skill?  Do you want to share your new-found knowledge and lessons learned? Is this is the right time to start sharing your knowledge?

Most of all, if you have a website and want a broader reach on the internet, a blog can be a great tool for you.  Share your knowledge, provide helpful hints and show your visitors you are the local expert on your services.