Blogging 101
This page covers the fundamentals of blogs and blogging. If your a new blog reader this is a good place to get the basics.
What is a blog? “Blog” is a contraction of the term “web log.” Basically a blog is a website that is updated by one or more authors on a regular basis. These updates are displayed in reverse chronological order, meaning the newest entry is on the top of the page.
Why read a blog? A blog is more of a conversation than a traditional website. After each post a reader is able to make a comment and add to the topic that is being discussed. Many communities have formed around blogs which is changing the way the internet is used.
What is RSS? Rich Site Summary is a tool many people use to read blogs. Using an RSS Feed Reader you “subscribe” to blogs that you want to stay up to date with. Each time the blogs you’ve subscribe to post the content is delivered directly to your reader. Allowing you to read many blogs in one place.
What is a Feed Reader? Software that allows you to receive content from blogs you have subscribed to. Many popular email accounts have a feed reader included. Google Reader for example comes with all Gmail accounts. There are also many free software options such as Bloglines, FeedReader, and SharpReader. Using a Feed Reader saves you a lot of time because you do not have to visit each individual blog to read it, the blogs you want come to you.
What is the Blogosphere? A term used to describe the whole online community of blogs and bloggers.