The blogging bestseller, now fully updated to reflect the latest tools and techniques

Blogging is forever evolving, and remains essential for anyone who wants a distinctive Web presence. There are many options that surround blogging-on everything from blogging software to hosting services-and this fun and friendly guide gets you started so can begin logging in hours of blogging!

Building on the success of the two previous bestselling editions, this latest revision includes essential blogging basics, the elements required of a good blog, and the tools you''ll need to get started. You''ll discover how to determine the right blogging software for you, whether you should run your own blog or use a full-service hosting site, and how to set up an account and write your first post.

• Builds on the two previous bestselling editions and covers the latest advertising tools to attract an audience, methods for making money with your blog, and ways to measure your blog''s success
• Includes updates to the major blogging software utilities including Google''s Blogger, TypePad, and WordPress
• Walks you through the latest search engine optimization techniques for increasing your blog''s visibility
• Reviews the newest plug-ins and gadgets that will allow you to extend your blog

If you''re in a fog about how to blog, then this easy-to-understand guide is the right book for you.

In a fog about blogs? Read this book and it all becomes clear!

Millions of people posted a blog entry this morning. They''re promoting products, espousing causes, discussing their lives, and sharing tips on everything from getting the laundry clean to getting their candidate elected. Join the fun! Here''s how to choose and use blogging software, pick a topic, add photos, attract readers, and keep your blog interesting.

• Blog basics — find out what defines a blog and what type of blog best suits your purpose

• What you say — learn how to create appealing content and what you don''t want to put in your blog

• Compare tools — understand the pros and cons of hosted services and see what Blogger, WordPress, and other tools offer

• When smaller is better — explore microblogging, including Twitter® and Tumblr

• Speak up — try your hand at podcasting or video blogging

• Socialize your blog — boost readership with a presence on social networking sites

• Blogging for dollars — see how to put ads on your blog or in your RSS feed, seek sponsorships, and maintain a business blog

• Know your visitors — learn to collect and analyze statistics on who''s visiting your site, when, and for how long

Open the book and find:

• Tips for choosing a topic

• How to connect with your readers through comments

• Advice on blogging ethics

• A comparison of leading blogging software

• Help managing routine blog tasks

• Hints for conquering writer''s block

• Ways to boost readership

• Why RSS feeds are a great idea

• Cool widgets, gadgets, and themes to customize your blog

Learn to:

• Use the latest versions of Blogger and WordPress®

• Recognize what goes into an effective blog

• Find your niche in the blogosphere

• Build an audience and make money from your blog

Susannah Gardner is creative director of Hop Studios (www.hopstudios.com), a Web design company specializing in blogs and community content Web sites. Shane Birley is cofounder of Left Right Minds (www.leftrightminds.com) and blogs at ShanesWorld.ca.