The Short Form Content: Digest a Point In 2 Minutes or Less

Award-winning writer Kathy Widenhouse has helped hundreds of nonprofits and writers produce successful content and has gained 600K+ views for her writing tutorials. She is the author of 9 books. See more of Kathy’s content here.

An online devotional for writers

A Word From The Word

I have much more to say to you, but … I hope to see you soon. (3 John 13-14, NLT)

A Word For Writers

The shortest book of the Bible is 3 John. In the original Greek, it’s got just 219 words. 

Yet this short letter is a powerful example of quality short form content – that is, content that’s generally 600 words or less and that can be read and digested in two minutes or less. 

Third John is a personal letter from the Apostle John to Gaius, a leader in the early church. Its main point is the importance of hospitality. John wanted to ensure that traveling teachers received a warm welcome from newly-planted congregations. 

Everything John says in this letter speaks to this one issue. 

• He commended Gaius for his faithfulness as reported by traveling teachers
• He explained the value of missionaries
• He requested hospitality on their behalf
• He warned Gaius about Diotrephes, an exclusionary leader who was unwelcoming
• He recommended Demetrius as one who would embrace visitors
• He indicated further messages to come and extended greetings to others in Gaius’ circle

John shared all those details with a singular focus: would Gaius be sure to welcome traveling partners warmly.

Short-form content – such as devotionals, emails, short blog posts, and social media posts – makes a clear point that can be digested in two minutes or less.

A Wise Word

Short-form content lets the reader digest a point in two minutes or less.

A Word To Pray

Gracious Father,

I confess my tendency to be wordy. I want readers to enjoy my prose. Forgive me for that tendency towards pride. Show me how to have a singular focus in my short form content so that readers can easily digest the key point.

In Jesus’s name, Amen.

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