Book excerpt: The bestselling blogging book—updated in a new edition! Ready to make your mark on the online world? Start a blog! Blogging For Dummies provides you with information on blogging basics, the anatomy of a good blog, and the tools required to get started. Plus, you'll get advice on a blog topic, choosing a domain name and host, writing your first post, planning an editorial calendar, and using your blog as an important part of your personal brand. Decide which of the major blogging platforms will work for you Use SEO to drive traffic to your blog Monetization through advertising and sponsorships Create content that draws readers in Covering shifts in popular blogging platforms and tools, changes in social media, and the latest best practices in the blogosphere, this new edition sets you up for blogging success!