Summary

The article discusses strategies for creating the illusion of being a skilled writer through consistent writing, learning from established online writers, engaging word choice, and a willingness to experiment.

Abstract

The author of the article, Jameson, shares insights on how to convince readers of one's writing prowess, likening the process to performing a magic trick. He emphasizes the importance of consistent writing and building a substantial body of work, citing his own experience of writing over 400 articles since July 2021. The article suggests that by studying the techniques of successful online writers and engaging readers with conversational language, one can create content that resonates and appears more skillful than it may inherently be. Additionally, Jameson encourages writers to be open to trying new writing styles and perspectives, drawing a parallel between the unpredictability of a magician's performance and the excitement of publishing online content.

Opinions

Jameson does not consider himself a naturally talented writer but values the work ethic and techniques behind successful online writing.
He believes that consistent output and a strong work ethic are crucial for improvement and recognition in online writing.
Learning from experienced and successful online writers is more beneficial than following novices.
Engaging readers with conversational language and compelling patter is key to maintaining their interest.
A writer should not be afraid to experiment with different writing approaches and perspectives to keep their content fresh and engaging.
The excitement of online writing lies in the uncertainty of reader reception, similar to a magician's anticipation of the audience's reaction to a trick.

How to Trick People Into Thinking You Are a Good Writer

Writing online is like a good magic trick.

I don’t think of myself as a good writer.

I’m a consistent writer — and hopefully not a bad writer. But I’ve never thought, “Wow, Jameson, you might just be the next great American writer.” None of that really matters anymore.

What matters is: do you know how the magic trick of writing online works?

If you do, you can trick people into thinking you’re a good writer — whether you are or not.

But first, here’s a little bit about magic.

Writing online is a lot like magic.

Good magic is the result of good patter and good style. A great magician can amaze audiences with a bad trick. A bad magician struggles to amaze audiences with any trick. — John Kurlak

Good “patter” uses words in an exciting and perhaps entertaining way to keep people’s attention and get them to do something.

Good salespeople use “patter.” It’s also common among good writers.

A good magician has plenty of style in their act to keep their audience engaged. A good writer “styles” his or her writing to keep the audience engaged.

Just as great magicians can amaze an audience with a lousy trick, so good writers can “go viral” with what most people might consider “so-so” content.

However, not even a bad magician or bad writer can amaze anyone — even with a good trick or good content.

Ain’t gonna happen.

How the “magic” of online writing works.

Show up every day.

I’ve written over 400 articles since July 2021.

I don’t tell you that for applause. I’m telling you that as someone who understands the hard work behind writing online.

You aren’t the next “overnight sensation” because no such thing exists. You’ve got to put in the work if you want to improve. Build your web of content.

Learn from the best magicians…err, I mean online writers.

Find the “masters” of online writing and learn from them.

No offense to Cindy Lu Hoo, who’s been writing for two months — but she probably doesn’t know what she’s talking about.

Follow and learn from online writers like Nicolas Cole, Tim Denning, Sean Kernan, Ben Le Fort, Shaunta Grimes, Zulie Rane, Ayodeji Awosika, and Jenn Leach. These are just a few who have taught me through their writing.

Pay attention to how you use words.

How you use your words, matters.

Try to write the way you talk. Have a conversation with your readers. If you feel yourself getting bored, then move forward in the conversation.

Your words and how you format them, determine whether your “magic trick” is good or bad.

Be willing to try new things.

Don’t get stuck in doing things the way you’ve always done them, because you’ve always done them that way.

Writing online is a wonderful arena where writers get to play with words and ideas in new ways. Try something new. Write from a different perspective. Mix it up a little bit!

Don’t sacrifice who you are — but don’t be a “stick-in-the-mud” either.

Just like a magician, online writers won’t know if their audience “bought the trick” until after the act is finished, in your case, when the article is published.

To me, that’s part of the thrill of writing online — I have no idea what might happen.

But that’s all part of the magic.

Shout out to Tim Denning for the title idea from his email list.