Ever thought about writing an article or just a  short blurb for the Newsletter or e-blast but weren't sure how to go about it?  We've got you covered!  The Communications committee has established a few guidelines to help.  We will even help you with your article if you need it!

Guidelines for writing articles for AFA publications

1.    Article length - 500-6000 words, 3-5 pages including photos or 30 KB.  Layout matters. Good articles start with introductions, continue with a clear structure, and end with standard appendices such as references and related articles.   Short article writing is as not as difficult as you think. No, it is not a daunting task if you know what to do. Just remember that when you write, the important thing is that you catch your reader's attention. You must make them want to read what you wrote. Here are the tips that you can follow when writing your article?   Prepare an outline. Writing would be easier also if you have an outline on hand. Determine the number of paragraphs you would like your article to have, your outline headings and sub points for each heading. Your outline headings must not vary from the main topic of the article but must be supportive of the main heading. Your subtopics for each outline headings must be related to the main heading and to each outline heading.

2.    Minimum 4-6 photos illustrating quality workmanship at AFA certification level.  We realize that not all horses are shod to the certification guidelines for various reasons. But keep in mind that nailing, finish, fit, trim from the certification standards are good everyday shoeing. Please provide clear explanations of why a particular fit, expansion, length of shoe, nailing, trim, shoe type, etc. is beneficial to the subject you are writing about.
 
3.    All photos must be captioned with explanations relevant to the photo and the article.

4.    First paragraph is the explanation of the subject in general terms.  Good articles start with a brief lead section introducing the topic.  Grab you reader's attention. Remember that at first glance your title must reflect the benefit they would receive from reading your article. Writing compelling titles is an art itself. It must have pizzazz and it must sizzle by itself. You must create a title that will grab your reader's attention and hold it. Do not be afraid to be outrageous even. Your introductory words or paragraph must tell your readers how reading your article will help them out or improve them. It must be formatted in such a way that when your readers scan your article, it would be viewed as a light, easy and interesting reading. How do you ensure that your article is easy to scan? Use bullets, headings, sub-headings, numbered lists, and steps.

5.    The body of the article is about the specifics of the topic.  Talk to your reader. Learn to be specific in your purpose and narrow down your article to its exact target audience. Make sure that your articles will be understood by varied audience regardless of their age, educational background or race. Connect to your reader as a friend, giving him advice. Make your article friendly.

Take note that your article should be concise, informative and interesting. Do not write lengthy paragraphs that would bore your reader. Keep it short and readable. You can give examples, but make sure that they are short. It is also important to write simple sentences and use words that are understandable to almost any reader. Use the simplest words. Avoid using words which are very technical except when it is really necessary. Use words of direct and powerful actions and expressions. Use active voice in writing sentences. This would be more positive in impression. Do not include unnecessary or excessive words.
 
6.    Last paragraph should be a summary and conclusion.   Be informative and substantive. Your article must be practical and valuable. You must do your research to make sure that your article will come out like you really know what you are talking about. Avoid lengthy idioms, analogies, quotes, anecdotes, and stories, but if you must give an example, make it short. This will ensure that your reader will get the information while appealing to their emotions. Your readers want information and definite summary of the whole article. It is this way that they will connect with you.

7.    All articles will promote the AFA and our commitment to a higher level of quality workmanship.

8.    If the author requires assistance in writing their article, we are gladly willing to offer our assistance in developing their topic outline for publication - contact John Blombach, Steve Sermersheimor Debora Ash

"To further the professional development of farriers, to provide leadership and resources for the benefit of the farrier industry, and to improve the welfare of the horse through continuing farrier education."