Page structure
The page level is where web writing really differs from other genres. Web readers often approach a web page with a quick skim in order to form an overview of the page and determine whether the information they are seeking is likely to be found there. Some users then read through the page, while others print the page for offline reading. The following guidelines support both the skimming and reading behaviors of online readers.
Segment the text for easy scanning
Browsing a page is easier when the text is broken into segments topped by headings that describe the subject of each segment. This often means breaking up long paragraphs, and using more subheadings than you would for print publication. Remember that in the restricted world of the computer screen, a long paragraph may fill the screen with a visually monotonous block of text.
Use descriptive headings
Avoid catchy but meaningless headings. Don’t force readers to read a text segment to determine its topic. Highlighting or linking meaningless or ambiguous phrases will not help you with optimizing your content for search engines and may even harm the overall search visibility of your page by adding confusing keywords into the mix.
Highlight important words and sections
Within sections, use lists and typographical emphasis for words or sections you wish to highlight; these and headings are the elements that will grab the user’s attention during a scan.
Use the inverted pyramid
The inverted pyramid style used in journalism works well on web pages, with the conclusion appearing at the beginning of a text. Place the important facts near the top of the first paragraph where users can find them quickly (fig. 9.2).