How To Write A Great Topic

A great topic guarantees higher than average engagement from the community. Here's a quick tutorial on how to start a great topic on allnurses.com.

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How To Write A Great Topic

Focus On Title

The topic title is IMPORTANT. If you want readers/clicks you must create a descriptive title. Something that makes the reader take action.

Let's take the following titles found on allnurses... (Yes, these are actual titles found on the site.)

Which titles do you think will get the MOST attention? ("old" vs new)

"I need help!!" vs Taking NCLEX soon. I need help!

"So many..." vs Many people applying to nursing school

"Finally!" vs Got a job! Need Advice

"Any tips?" vs Starting IV - Need tips

A good title will guarantee a higher click through rate.

Write Engaging Content

You need to grab the reader in 2 seconds. If your content doesn't grab their attention they move on to the next topic.

To get readers to participate...

  • At minimum, you should have 100+ words. The more information you include the better off you will be.
  • Personalize the content - Ask questions.
  • If long-form content, break it up and use Headings.
  • Fix grammar and spelling mistakes.

Do Not...

  • Do not use txt/chat speak.
  • Do not repeat characters such as ??, !!, or pleeease
  • Do not submit into the wrong section.
  • Do not type entirely in capitals as it is considered shouting on the Web.

Get Involved In The Community

Grab The Reader In Two Seconds

To get the most out of the community, you must get involved. Provide some information about yourself in your Profile. It's OK to be general with this information.

  • Fill Out Your Profile - This builds Trust. The reader is no longer looking at just text but an actual human being.
  • Upload An Avatar - It makes you stand out from others.
  • Stay Positive - People are attracted to those who are positive.
  • Return the Favor / Provide Support To Others - This will ensure that people will be there when you need them the most.

Start a Topic...

Visit the section you are interested in and look for the 'Add New Topic' button. It's usually found at the top of the page with green background color. The text used may differ from one section to the next.

Add A Topic

Alternatively, you can click the Account link (dropdown menu) found above. Under the Create section, click 'Topic'. This will open a popup to select the forum you want to submit your topic into.

Start A Topic

Getting Started on allnurses.com

Registration is Free!

All members can submit topics. If you are not a registered member, please Register Now.

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Joe V

About Joe V

(Editorial Team / Admin)

Joe V is a programmer and obstacle racing enthusiast. “It’s gratifying to teach others what you know. At the same time, it’s very satisfying to learn from others.”

7 Articles   2,617 Posts

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Specializes in Alzheimer's, Geriatrics, Chem. Dep..
Joe V said:

Do not create duplicate Content across multiple sections.

GUILTY!

I guess I just want to be sure everyone sees it that can!

I am also guilty of starting a new topic when it has already been done to death (without having looked to see). I have to remember to do a search of the topic before I post a new one.

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Specializes in Programming / Strategist for allnurses.

Creating a similar topic is ok - duplicating threads (word for word) doesn't help anyone

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I just wish there was a ban on coloured text and comic sans for body text.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Great tips!

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Specializes in Med-surg > LTC > HH >.

Do we really have to be soooo formal??, I come here to relax and learn, let my hair down if you will. :D

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

And, that's what we want you to do.........relax, learn, and let your hair down. This Article is to help members get the best replies to their new threads. :)

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Specializes in Med-surg > LTC > HH >.

Awesome, I thought we had to make those changes.... I don't think I have enough brain cells left after all the studying I'm doing to keep up with many changes at this point. Thanks!

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Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.

I think we've struck a pretty good balance between looking professional and being too buttoned up to have fun, and I'm one who likes color. I don't really mind the few people who use Comic Sans and/or a "signature color".

The txt/chat spelling continues to drive me up the wall, especially when a little Terms of Service reminder is right over the very box you are typing your reply in!!!!

Thanks for the tips, Joe!

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Specializes in Programming / Strategist for allnurses.

The problem with font colors/type is that we need to consider people with eye problems.

There are many people who are color blind ... many people who have eye problems.

By creating a thread on allnurses.com, we assume that you want to reach the maximum number of readers. You want it exposed to as many people as possible. You want to get many replies.

By following the tips above you are guaranteed to reach the maximum number of readers.

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Specializes in ORTHOPAEDICS-CERTIFIED SINCE 89.

Thanks for the add-on Joe. I used to be a posting fiend. Then I started having gray-outs in my left eye..well I still had my right. Then my fingers decided to go on strike at the oddest times. THEN my glutes decided sitting the brief time to post was too long. Sometimes the strikes go on for days in tandem, but usually one at a time. This week I'm reading with my right eye and typing one handed with my left. Ain't getting old FUNNNNNNNN?

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Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.
babusgirl said:
I cant find where to find the "start a topic now'.. :(

Basically, you find the forum you want to post in, then click on the green button found on the page.

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