What is the best layout for your blog?

Hello! Have you practiced blogging since my last post "How to set up a blogger blog in 4 easy steps"?

Today I want to go over layouts, and why they are important...

First of all.. "What is a layout"?

A layout is the general template that your blog is set up with. Will your badges be on the left side or the right side? Will you have a side bar at all? What is a side bar??

A Sidebar is a bar on the side of your blog that is static (permanent) where you can display buttons, links, archives, advertisements, etc.

When you are in the dashboard of your blogger blog you will see a small sidebar on the left that gives you options for customizing your blog. Click on template. Once you are in the template page click the orange button that says "customize".

Here you will find all sorts of customizable features. For this post I want you to click on layout.

You should see several options like this:

Pick one.. test it out.. try another! Go ahead, enjoy yourself!

I choose to have one sidebar on the left side. Why?

Image Credit

Welcome to the "F" pattern! --->

Based off of several studies it has been proven that readers online read (or skim rather) in an "F" pattern.

Across the header, down the left side and then into the center of your website.

If you are writing your blog as a journal and your main focus is sharing your thoughts it won't really matter which side of your blog your sidebar is on.

However, if you are monetizing or placing specific links or content that you want people to click on you can use the "F" pattern to your advantage!! (Like we have)

I have also learned to use the footer (space at the bottom of my blogs) to my advantage. In this space you give your readers something else to do. When they reach the bottom of your page they will be less likely to click away, or to another webpage, if you give them something to click on or do. Check out my footer for examples! =)

So, what do you think about the "F" pattern? Have you learned any tips that help you maximize your blog space? If so share in the comments section below!

Next time I will be going over how to write an effective "About Me" page.

Join me on Twitter or Facebook so you can keep in touch with me between posts and until next time... stay groovy!