A US research team aimed to determine the natural indicators of uncertain language and understand how these indicators predict decisional conflict.
How health buzzwords trick consumers: Research
Health buzzwords like ‘protein’, ‘paleo’ and ‘organic’ are used by marketers as key selling points for many of today’s health products. Yet these words can also trick consumers into believing a product is healthier than it really is.
How to increase motivation and inspire behaviour change
As health writers, we focus a lot of our energy on knowledge. We write ‘how to’ articles about eating better, exercising more, breaking bad habits, making healthy choices and reducing risk factors. We offer knowledge – but, we rarely sell the desire to change.
How long does it take to write a 500-word article?
This is a question that comes up often in my course groups. And, it’s reasonable and natural to worry about time. Time is money. The less time you spend writing, the more money you make. The more time you spend researching, writing, reviewing and refining, the more your hourly rate drops.
Health literacy in South Africa – research from a local province
As health writers, we need to recognise and understand the social factors that limit health literacy so we can help our readers understand our health information. We can do this by looking at the key outcomes from a range of health literacy research into both local and global communities.
Communication between healthcare professionals – which channels work?
As health writers, we need to identify the ideal medium to share our key messages to our target audience to ensure our writing influences health outcomes.
How to get freelance work without writing experience
How do you get experience if everyone wants someone with experience?
Boost your writing confidence with these science-backed tips
Confidence is a common concern for writers. So, is it possible to build self-assurance and courage, and which methods really work?
How processing fluency can design health messages and materials
While quality medical evidence underlies accurate health writing, clear writing helps the information translate easily – enter the concept of ‘processing fluency’.
Develop a writer mindset and thrive in your career
While confidence and perseverance are important, there are a few other mindset attributes that – I believe – will help you tremendously in your writing life.
Self-affirmation theory can make people healthier – here’s how
Health risk information is better received when you ask your readers to identify their own values and beliefs before communicating the risks.
What is selective exposure and how can it help you write better?
Could understanding more about selective exposure help us write engaging content? One study looked at how selective exposure influences attitudes towards health behaviours.
Writing for teens and supporting informed decision-making
New research provides insight into how we can help high-school students understand health information and make better-informed health decisions.
$25 for 350 words? Charging what you’re worth
Oh yes they did. Last week, someone contacted me looking for writers and offered $25 per 350-word article.
Help people quit smoking with short and sweet messages
A study recently published in the Journal of Health Communication has looked at warning labels on cigarette packages in the Netherlands.