Headlines, Sub-heads, Links

Besides the words themselves, the arrangement of the words in a paragraph is also important for good writing. Headlines, subheadings and links help break up the page and enhance scannability.

Graphical elements such as use of color, art, and bullets, which set off the words, help the user decide whether to continue reading. Additionally, hypertext links are most effective when set off in the color blue, as most readers is accustomed to seeing blue links. (Nielsen, 62).

Using shorter subheadings placed under broader headlines or subheadings can also increase scannability and clarity. Some web pages even use three levels of subheads. (Nielsen, pg. 104).

When writing a subject line or headline for hypertext there are a few guidelines writers should follow. For example, don’t try to entice readers by having them click to another link. Writers can skip using leading articles "a," "an," "the."

Additionally, using bulleted lists or similar graphic elements can break up the flow of the text and increase scannability. (Nielsen, pg. 109). Using photos with short captions are a great way to tell the story in a succinct manner.