Content Preface

How to Use This Textbook

This textbook has been written in four primary sections: 

1. Fundamentals: Chapters 1 through 3 focus on building your fundamental knowledge about content creation. Through these chapters, you will explore the five Ws of content, some key concepts you will need to know as you attempt to create content for the web, and a strategy section that will help you build a roadmap for your goals.
2. Content Type Guides: Chapters 4 through 9 focus on giving you in-depth guides to each of the content types, covering everything from written content to user-generated content and graphic art. If you are looking to get a thorough and useful crash course on a specific content type, these chapters will be your main destination.
3. Analytics: In Chapter 10, you will learn everything you need to know about determining how successful your content program is. It covers concepts like understanding high-value and low-value metrics, where to focus your analytics energy, and letting data tell you the overall story.
4. Conclusion: Chapters 11 through 13 provide you with reference sections like a glossary and index that you can use in a pinch. Use this if you come across a term you do not recognize or need to quickly understand a concept as you move through your content creation efforts. 

Additionally, several tools are available throughout the sidebar of this textbook. Scan QR codes to access supplemental information or resources that can broaden your understanding of a specific topic. Core terms and concepts are also defined in these margins, and you may even find an occasional editor’s note that provides additional context on a complex topic. There is no right or wrong way to use this textbook; if you choose to read from start to finish, you will have a thorough understanding of practical and theoretical content creation practices. But if you choose instead to reference a chapter as you go, each section is written to provide you exactly with the information you need in that situation. Remember that this textbook is a tool, and, like many tools, the ways in which you can use them is up to your preference.