Using FAQs as content launchpads

In the past, I had trouble with vague ideas. Fighting my own limp-wristed attempts to frame content, I discovered that most topics can be phrased as a FAQ. Since questions spawn questions, thinking in FAQs turned out to be a useful mind-mapping-like tool as well.

Each of the examples here use a vital question word: who, what, when, where, why and how. That’s important to avoid incomplete answers and assumptions. For example:

Bad: “Can I create my own grid?”

Good: “How can I create my own grid?”

The first question inspires a weak answer. Can I? Yes. Good for you. The second question demands some thought and a more elaborate response. It works so well that I’ve started using questions to start everything I write. It’s like free writing or mind mapping, but with question marks.

“Color alignment is important.”

Thinking FAQ-style:

What is color alignment?
Why should colors be aligned?
When are colors misaligned?
Who else has written about this?
Where can I find tools to make colors match?
How can I change colors to match each other?

“Grid-based layouts are useful.”

Thinking FAQ-style:

Who invented grid layouts?
Who uses grid layouts now?
How are grid layouts different on the web than in print?
What are different types of grids?
Why don’t more people use grids?
Where can I download grid systems?
How can I create my own grid?

“PNG vs. GIF.”

Thinking FAQ-style:

Who owns the licensing behind PNG and GIF?
What are the advantages of PNG and GIF?
When is PNG or GIF more appropriate?
What browsers support GIF and PNG?
Why should anyone use GIF over PNG or vice versa?
How might PNG or GIF change in the future?

Using FAQs as content launchpads

“Color alignment is important.”

“Grid-based layouts are useful.”

“PNG vs. GIF.”

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