As some of you may already be aware, a "blog" is a type of website, or part of an existing website.
A Blog got its name from the words web and log, basically a means of publishing one's thoughts and opinions on the web.
Blogs are usually composed of commentary, descriptions and opinions on any event or subject and can also include videos.
Usually, the entries in a blog are displayed in reverse chronological order which means the present day entry would be on the first page.
The majority of blogs are interactive meaning visitors can leave comments on blog posts and can engage in conversations and debates with the blog owner or other visitors.
This interactivity is basically the reason why blog sites are different from static web pages and is also the reason why blogging is such a popular thing to do these days.
Anyone with internet access can start a blog on any subject they like.
There are a number of blogging platforms that are available on the internet, such as WordPress or Blogger and the majority of them are free to use.
If you are looking at starting your own blog then it is highly advisable that you select a subject that you have a lot of knowledge about and something that you are interested in and passionate about.
This way you will be able to write with expertise and also interact successfully with your readers.
Once you have your subject and and signed up with a blogging platform, it is time to decide on the look of your blog.
Most of the blogging platforms have a number of layout templates that you can select and use for free.
This is great if you are just started out as you don't have to pay anyone for your design and you can have a professional looking blog site up in minutes.
Templates are available for a whole host of subjects so, for example, if you were blogging about golf you would be able to find a golf related template to kick-start your blog.
Now you have chosen your subject, you are now ready to start writing your first post.
It may be a factual or teaching post, or even an opinionated post on a recent happening in the news.
The content is entirely up to you and should be dictated by the type of blog you have and the reason why you have set the blog up.
Have you set the blog up to teach others your knowledge or to express an opinion? You may have even setup a blog with the aim to make some money - yes that's right - you can make money from blogging too.
Now that you have your first post it is time to get traffic to your own blog site.
This is the most important and also the most difficult part and some patience will be required.
The best way to start is by commenting on other blogs that are in the same subject area as your own.
You can then leave a link back to your own website which other people can then click on bringing them to your own.
Forum posting is another great way to get traffic to your blog, however again the forums you post and leave a link on must in the same subject area.
Tell family and friends about your blog too and get them to spread the word using tools like Facebook etc.
If your blog begins to take off then you will then want to look at doing some search engine optimization to get your blog found in Google for your selected subject area.
The possibility with blogs is endless and its totally free to get started so, what are you waiting for? Start blogging today!