Knowing how to start a blog isn’t as complicated as most people assume it to be. Back in the day, you needed to have some technical coding knowledge, but it’s much simpler now.
There are many reasons why starting a blog is beneficial in this digital environment. For example, blogging is a great way to build your brand, establish authority in a niche, and build a large follower base.
Additionally, blogging can also help you earn money if you manage to get a decent amount of monthly traffic. So, if you’ve always wanted to know how to start a blog but don’t know where to start, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Read this to the end to understand how to start a blog that makes money.
Disclaimer: This content contains some affiliate links for which we will earn a commission (at no additional cost to you). This is to ensure that we can keep creating free content for you.
Obvious as it may sound, not many people looking to start a blog even know what a blog is or the different types that exist. If you truly want to nail the process of learning how to start a blog, then you need to go back to the basics of blogging.
A blog is a website or a section of a website where people post articles, stories, or updates. It’s a way to share information, opinions, or personal experiences in a casual and conversational style.
Some blogs focus on specific topics like travel, food, or business, while others cover anything the writer finds interesting. Businesses also use blogs to attract and retain customers by sharing helpful tips and industry news.
Blogs can be short or long, but they always aim to keep readers interested and coming back for more.
To better understand how to start a blog, let’s explore some of the key types of blogs so you can know the category you fall into.
Blog websites come in different types, each targeting a specific niche. The following are the main types of blogs you need to know about as you learn how to start a blog.
Personal blogs focus on individual experiences, thoughts, and passions. They often cover daily life, travel, hobbies, or opinions on various topics. Unlike business or niche blogs, they are more informal and deeply personal.
Many people researching how to start a blog begin with personal blogging since it requires no specific expertise — just a desire to share.
The Blonde Abroad is a good example of a personal blog. It was created by Kiki who is a travel enthusiast who shares her personal experiences of travelling to different places.
Image via The Blonde Abroad
Business and finance Blogs focus on money-related topics, from investment strategies to startup advice. These blogs help readers understand market trends, personal finance tips, and business growth tactics.
They usually offer an expert-level analytical approach and fact-based content. Therefore, if you want to know how to start a business blog, ensure you have a good background in financial knowledge.
Business and financial blogs cover essential topics, including case studies, stock market analysis, and economic forecasts. Business Insider is a good example of a business and finance blog.
Image via Business Insider
Next up are lifestyle blogs. They cover a mix of personal interests, daily habits, and trends. They’re one of the most loved blogs among people learning how to start a blog.
This is because their topics are easy and don’t require much technical or expert knowledge. It’s common for bloggers in this niche to mix casual writing with relatable stories and helpful tips.
MomTrends perfectly captures what a lifestyle blog should be like.
Image via MomTrends
Food blogs focus on recipes, cooking tips, and food photography. They often cover everything from quick meals to gourmet dishes. Many aspiring writers researching how to start a blog often choose this niche because food content appeals to a wide audience.
These blogs often feature step-by-step guides, ingredient breakdowns, and creative meal ideas. Here’s an example of a food blog you can use for inspiration.
Image via Pinch of Yum
As the name implies, travel blogs mainly focus on providing travel content. They provide information on destinations, cultural experiences, and trip-planning tips. Other times, they may cover detailed guides, packing lists, and travel hacks.
Many travelers researching how to start a blog choose this niche to share their adventures through first-hand experience. These blogs inspire readers to explore new places while offering helpful advice for smooth trips. Here’s an example of what a travel blog looks like.
Image via Sommertage
Tech blogs are another popular niche for individuals learning how to start a blog. This type of blog focuses on gadgets, software, and digital trends. They often cover product reviews, tech news, and how-to guides.
They attract readers looking for updates on devices, apps, and emerging technologies. The average tech blogger often breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow tips.
Engadget is one of the most popular tech blogs on the internet, providing reviews of all types of gadgets.
Image via Engadget
These are blogs that generate content around health and fitness. They share exercise routines, healthy eating, wellness advice, diet tips, and mental health guidance.
Health and fitness blogs are very popular. However, you may need to have some expertise as you learn how to start a blog in this niche. For instance, you may need to be a licensed therapist if you open a blog offering counseling content.
Calm is a good example of a health blog that provides insightful tips on mental wellness.
Image via Calm
Educational blogs focus on teaching concepts, sharing study tips, and offering learning resources. They often cover subjects like science, math, language skills, and career advice.
It’s also common to encounter tutorials, lesson plans, and practice exercises on such blogs. If you’re learning how to start a blog in the educational niche, ensure you have a good grasp of the subjects you intend to teach.
Here’s an example of an educational blog that should give you a good idea of how they look.
Image via Teach Junkie
These are some of the most common types of blogs. You don’t even need to look very far because we are a good example of what a marketing blog should look like.
Image via Attrock
Digital marketing and SEO blogs focus on sharing tips, strategies, and trends that help businesses grow online. These blogs often include guides on content creation, social media management tactics, and email marketing strategies.
They offer practical advice on keyword research, link-building techniques, and improving site speed. Readers seeking tips on how to start a blog will find these blogs packed with insights that improve search visibility.
Another category that people learning how to start a blog can try out is news and political blogs. This type of blog attracts significant traffic since people are always on the lookout for updates on what’s happening around the world.
While news blogs cover current events, breaking stories, and trending topics, political blogs usually focus on government policies, political debates, and social issues.
Writers often share opinions alongside factual reporting, giving readers strong perspectives on current events. Here’s an example of a news blog.
Image via Politico
This type of blog is all about creativity and hands-on projects. It’s ideal for creative individuals who want to learn how to start a blog and potentially earn money from it in the long run.
People love DIY and craft blogs because they provide step-by-step guides, valuable tips, and inspiring ideas. Whether it’s home decor, knitting, or upcycling old furniture, these blogs make crafting feel effortless and fun. They’re packed with tutorials, supply lists, and personal stories that make every project feel doable.
Here’s a good example of a DIY and craft blog you can use for inspiration as you learn how to start a blog. This blog primarily focuses on home improvement tips and tricks.
Image via Fall for DIY
Starting this type of blog is also easy.
Start by selecting a niche, like handmade jewelry or paper crafts. Share your projects with clear instructions and great photos. Add some personal stories to keep things real. If you post consistently and connect with other crafters, your blog can grow into something big.
Gaming blogs are all about reviews, tips, and news. People love them because they cover everything from new releases to hidden gems. Some focus on game guides, while others share personal gaming experiences.
If you’re a passionate gamer learning how to start a blog, consider a gaming blog. Gaming content is a natural fit for people who love playing games. This is how you’ll be able to come up with blog posts that resonate with the gaming community.
Rock Paper Shotgun is an excellent example of a gaming website that covers game reviews and recommendations.
Image via Rock Paper Shotgun
People start blogs for various reasons. Whatever your motivation may be, if you play your cards right as you learn how to start a blog, you could make a living off of it. Here are some notable reasons for starting a blog.
If you've skills, a blog is the perfect way to share them with others. Whether it's cooking, tech advice, or parenting tips, sharing your insights helps people solve problems. By posting tutorials, guides, or other helpful content, you can establish yourself as a trusted voice.
As you learn how to start a blog, keep in mind that readers appreciate actionable advice. Your knowledge can make a difference. Blogging lets you connect with people looking for guidance. Over time, you'll gain loyal readers who value your tips and ideas.
A blog gives you the freedom to share what matters to you. Whether you're passionate about politics, sports, or mental health, your blog becomes a platform to express yourself freely.
This creative space, when utilized well as you learn how to start a blog, allows you to voice your perspective without limitations. Writing your thoughts can also be therapeutic, helping you reflect and connect with like-minded readers.
Want to stand out in your industry as you figure out how to start a blog? A good blogging initiative can also help you build trust. Sharing well-researched content demonstrates that you are knowledgeable and can guide others effectively.
As your content gains traction, you'll become a go-to source for advice. This can lead to guest speaking, podcast invites, and other chances to expand your influence and earn a steady income.
Your blog becomes your online identity, especially if you opt for a personal or business blog. By sharing your ideas, values, and achievements, you can shape how others see you.
This personal branding helps you connect with people who relate to your style and message. Whether you're a coach, freelancer, or entrepreneur, a blog enables you to stand out. So think of the brand you want people to see as you learn how to start a blog.
Blogs are the perfect training ground for budding writers. As you post new content, you'll naturally improve your style, grammar, and storytelling.
Good writing skills can boost your confidence and improve your communication. With practice, you'll become clearer and more engaging in your posts.
As you familiarise yourself with how to start a blog, know that it can be a great way to earn money. Through ads, affiliate links, or selling your products, your content can generate income over time.
It takes effort to build an audience, but once you do, your blog can keep for months or even years. The more helpful your content, the more readers you'll attract.
Even business owners can learn how to start a blog, as it can be used to attract customers. By sharing helpful posts about your products or industry, you build trust with potential clients.
Writing informative content can answer customer questions before they even ask. This makes your blog a powerful content marketing tool that works 24/7.
Blogging is an effective way to boost your site's search rankings. Search engines love fresh content, and blog posts give you plenty of chances to target key phrases.
As you figure out how to start a blog, answering common questions in your niche attracts search traffic. This drives more visitors to your site, helping your business grow.
If you're a content writer, designer, or marketer learning how to start a blog, know that you can use it to showcase your skills. Your posts act as a portfolio that demonstrates your talent to potential employers or clients.
Having published content shows you're proactive and skilled in your craft. This can set you apart when applying for jobs or freelance gigs.
Journalists are always looking for experts to quote. A well-maintained blog can get you noticed by media outlets seeking knowledgeable sources.
Knowing how to start a blog means you get a chance to prove your skills to internet users searching for solutions. This increases your chances of getting featured in interviews, podcasts, or online articles.
Brands often pay bloggers to promote products or services. Once you know how to start a blog and then build an audience, companies may approach you with sponsorship offers.
These partnerships can provide steady income while allowing you to feature products you believe in. Readers appreciate honest reviews, making sponsorships a win-win.
A blog helps you connect with people who share your interests. Readers will comment, ask questions, and offer feedback, creating meaningful conversations.
This sense of community builds loyalty, turning readers into supporters. As you go about learning how to start a blog, focus on growth. As your audience grows, your blog can become a hub where people gather to connect and learn.
Now that we’ve covered the types of blogs, let’s dive into the most important bit. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to start a blog.
The first and probably the most important decision you need to make is to choose a niche for your blog.
Why is it so important?
There are millions of blogs online, on every topic or niche possible. Some niches are extremely popular and have more competition than others, while some attract a specific audience segment.
You need to decide who your audience is and what kind of content you want to create.
Ask yourself:
Before you learn how to start a blog, you need to pick what kind of blog you want to start, and these questions will help you with that.
Your goal should be to strike a balance between:
Image via Ahrefs
Once you hit that sweet spot you’re ready to learn how to start a blog and move to the next step.
The best tip anyone can give you on how to start a blog is to choose your blogging platform carefully.
Your choice of blogging platform will determine:
You get why the choice of platform is important, right?
So, do your research and compare all the options carefully before you make your choice.
Here are some of the best blogging platforms that you can choose from:
How to choose among these top platforms?
Look at the features, pros, cons, and price of each to find the one that suits you best. Most people go with WordPress.org as it is free, but WordPress.com is more user-friendly and also wildly popular.
Image via WordPress
You can choose any of the other blogging platforms listed above, as well. Many of these blogging platforms offer both free and paid options, so there are plenty of options for you.
However, if you're learning how to start a blog, I recommend using a basic paid plan to start with, as it will be worth your investment with the additional features you will get.
The next step to start a blog is to choose a domain name and a web hosting solution. Find these in the next two sections.
Before you start a blog, you need to decide on a name for it that perfectly reflects what it is all about. Also, you need to choose and purchase a domain name before you start blogging.
This is the part in this guide on how to start a blog, where you need to get your creative juices flowing.
Grab a pen and paper and start writing every name that you like for your blog. Do some research and see how others in your niche have named their blogs.
Once you have a whole list of ideas, do this:
Great!
Now you have a fine-tuned list of names that you can use.
How to select the final name?
If you're figuring out how to start a blog, start by looking at available domain names related to your blog name. For example, my company name is Attrock and its domain name is www.attrock.com.
So, if your blog name is “Example”, you will find tons of available domain names ranging from www.example.com to www.example12345.org.
Your goal should be to choose the cleanest and shortest domain name, preferably the same as your blog name.
Look for available domain names for the names in your list on GoDaddy’s domain name checker.
Image via GoDaddy
You can also use other similar tools to see which domain names you can get for your chosen blog names.
How to make the final decision?
Choose the blog name for which you can get the best domain name and make sure it is the one that best represents your blog.
But, what if you don’t find any good domain names for your blog names?
Go back to brainstorming ideas and find a new set of names. This process can take some time before you get to start a blog, so be patient.
Here are some bonus tips on how to choose a domain name to start a blog/website:
Once you find a perfect domain name, the next step is to buy it.
Pro Tip: You can get a free domain with a good hosting provider, check out how in the next step.
A domain name is like your address on the internet, and web hosting makes it your little corner of the internet.
Sounds complicated?
Don’t worry! It isn’t.
All you need to do is select a good web hosting provider (web host) for your blog to start a website and make your blog live. I recommend getting a Bluehost account as it is one of the best hosting providers and also gives you a free domain name.
Image via Bluehost
Bluehost, a hosting company, offers great hosting plans, but you can choose the basic plan when you’re getting started. Once you start a blog/website and it grows, then you can upgrade to a better hosting plan.
When learning how to start a blog, you need to make sure that it looks good and provides a good user experience.
How to do that?
Simply select a visually appealing and mobile-responsive theme for your blog. Almost all good website builders and blogging platforms offer free and paid themes that you can use.
Filter for blog-specific themes and take your pick. Here are some WordPress themes, for example.
Image via WordPress
These themes come with pre-designed options, so you can simply start using these as-is.
The next step in this guide on how to start a blog is to customize your blog design and layout.
If you’ve selected a good theme, half the work is already done. Still, there are a few things that you need to do yourself.
First, choose the relevant plugins that you want to add to your blog. Most blogging platforms offer numerous choices of plugins that you can choose from.
Maybe you want to add a few widgets to your blog sidebar or link to your social media feeds. Plugins offered by blogging platforms can help you do that.
Here are some featured WordPress plugins, for example.
Image via WordPress
Simply choose the ones you find relevant and move on to other customization options. If you miss any plugin at this step, you can always add it later.
Next, add or remove pages and other design elements to customize your blog further.
Pro Tip: Use consistent fonts and colors throughout your blog to increase brand awareness.
At this point, you are almost ready to start a blog.
But, before you start a blog, make sure that you connect it to Google Analytics.
Why?
It will help you monitor and assess your blog’s performance and web traffic analytics regularly. This is not an essential step, but if you want to start a blog to make money, you need to monitor your performance.
Once you connect your Google Analytics account, move to the next step in this guide on how to start a blog.
This guide on how to start a blog would be incomplete without the mention of keyword and topic research.
You can’t just start writing blog posts without a plan.
Start by searching for relevant keywords and topics in your niche and make a huge list of these before you start writing blog posts for your blog.
Use a good keyword research tool like Semrush to do this. Simply type a primary keyword, and it will give you a huge list of related keywords.
Image via Semrush
You can also use Semrush to find topics and content ideas. Use the “Topic Research” tool to find the top-ranking content on any keyword.
Image via Semrush
Use a mix of keywords and high-ranking content to choose a few topics to start a blog that is relevant to your audience. Use long-tail and short-tail keywords while creating your content to improve SEO.
Now comes the fun part: content creation.
After all, if you’re learning how to start a blog, you have something to say and want to use your blog as a platform to create and share content.
You have a list of keywords and topics; all that's left is to create good website content.
How to do that?
Here are some quick tips on creating good content for your first blog post:
Use these tips to create content liked by your readers and search engines, and start blogging.
When you start a blog, you should have a clear plan of how many content pieces you plan to post in a week. You need to pick a frequency and be consistent.
This is where an editorial calendar can help you with your blogging.
Your editorial calendar should include:
Need an example?
Here you go.
Image via IMH
You’ve learned how to start a blog and have successfully launched one.
What next?
Well, you need to promote your blog to enable your target audience to find it and read your content.
Wondering how to do that?
Here are a few tips:
Here’s an example from my company’s LinkedIn page, promoting my latest blog post.
Image via LinkedIn
The last step in this guide on how to start a blog is, of course, how to monetize your blog.
My biggest tip on how to monetize your blog is to wait till you have a steady stream of traffic and a loyal audience. Build your audience first and then start thinking about making money.
How to do it?
Here are some tips on how to monetize your blog:
Here’s an example of an ad placed on a blog’s homepage.
Image via VPN Arena
Yes, you can monetize your blog and turn it into a regular income for yourself. To make this easier for you, we’ll break the monetization options into the following categories:
One of the most effective ways of making money as you learn how to start a blog is advertising. What makes it effective is that you don’t need to be an authoritative blog or have mass followers. As long as you’re getting steady traffic, you’re good.
Some ads pay per-view, while others pay when someone clicks. You can also work directly with companies to feature their products in exchange for payment. Here are common types of advertising you can incorporate into your blog.
Display ads are the most common way to earn money. These are the banner or sidebar ads you see on websites. You can sign up for ad networks like Google AdSense, and they’ll place ads for you. The more traffic you get, the more money you make.
Here’s an example of a clickable display that has been inserted in the middle of a blog article.
Image via Rigorous Themes
Another ingenious way of making money as you learn how to start a blog is sponsored content. These are blog articles you write for brands, and then upload on your site.
Usually, it involves a company paying you to write about their product or service. However, this type of income-generating hack works if it fits your blog’s niche.
You can’t promote supplement pills on a tech blog as that would look out of place. Promoting supplements would fit well with a blog about fitness. Furthermore, sponsored posts work well on blogs with high authority and massive traffic.
Here’s an example of a blog post on BuzzFeed sponsored by Spotify. It’s full of links leading back to Spotify music and playlists.
Image via BuzzFeed
Unlike the first two advertisement options discussed above, native ads blend in with your content, making them feel less like ads. They look like regular blog posts or recommendations.
Readers don’t feel bombarded with ads, so they’re more likely to be engaged. If you're serious about how to start a blog and make money, native advertisements can be a solid option.
You can see in the example below how Outbrain promotes its services at the end of an article with an ad that looks like it’s part of the conclusion.
Image via Outbrain
Once you have learned how to start a blog and manage to generate massive traffic, you can switch to affiliate marketing.
You don’t need to create products or handle customer service. You just recommend stuff and earn a commission when people buy through your links.
Affiliate marketing is so big that it’s projected to reach $15.8 billion in spending by 2028 in the United States alone.
The best part? You can add affiliate links to different types of blog posts without making them sound too salesy. Here are some affiliate marketing strategies you can implement on your blog.
Learning how to start a blog opens up great opportunities to make money with affiliate marketing. People love reading opinions before buying stuff. You can test a product, share honest thoughts, and include an affiliate link.
If your review is helpful, readers may trust your recommendation and click your link to buy. This works for tech gadgets, online courses, or even kitchen tools. Product placement is important when it comes to affiliate marketing.
You can see in the example below how Attrock uses big banners to promote Semrush in its Semrush review blog post.
Image via Attrock
A resource page is like a one-stop shop for recommendations. You can list tools, apps, or services that help your audience. For example, if you’re teaching how to start a blog, you can share your favorite web hosting, themes, and plugins. Add affiliate links, and every time someone signs up, you get paid.
People love step-by-step guides, especially when learning something new. You can use this as you learn how to start a blog to make money through referral marketing.
You can include affiliate links for web hosting, domain registration, and blogging tools. When readers follow your steps and purchase, you earn commissions.
The blog IAmAttila best illustrates how to make money from tutorials and guides via affiliate marketing.
Image via iAmAttila
Selling and promoting digital products can provide a steady source of income through blogs. It’s highly recommended for people who are already good at creating digital products like online courses.
Unlike affiliate and referral marketing where you only get a cut, you get to pocket all the profits generated through selling digital products. Let’s discuss some examples of the most common digital products.
Wondering how to start a blog and make money? Try eBooks. They are great for sharing information in a simple, downloadable format. If you know something useful, you can write an eBook about it. Many bloggers sell eBooks on topics their audience is interested in, like fitness, personal finance, or blogging tips.
Plus, if you don’t want to write one yourself, you can promote eBooks from other creators through affiliate marketing.
Here’s an example of an online resource that requires an email address for a free download.
Image via Hubspot
Any avid internet user has come across a few blogs that sell online courses. This is an effective way of monetizing your blog because people love learning new skills online.
However, you need to be an expert in the given topic that you choose to sell before you figure out how to start a blog. You can’t offer to teach people to acquire a skill you’re not conversant with in the first place. That amounts to scamming and is illegal.
Here’s an example of an e-learning blog that teaches people different skills through videos.
Image via FLearning Studio
For those learning how to start a blog, consider trying printables and templates. You can create resources that help people stay organized and accomplish tasks more efficiently. These can be planners, checklists, social media templates, or even business forms. Many bloggers sell these on their websites.
Additionally, if you’re not ready to create your own, you can make money by recommending content templates from other sellers through affiliate marketing. Simply share a link, and you’ll earn money when someone makes a purchase.
There are multiple services you can offer through your blog and make money while at it. This could range from freelance writing and graphic design to digital marketing, online assistance, and more.
You simply need to have a particular set of skills that you can market to your potential clients. If this path looks viable to you, here are some suggestions you can explore as you learn how to start a blog.
If you're exploring how to start a blog and make money, offering freelance writing services is a great option. This could be regular articles, product descriptions, or emails. If you don’t want to write full-time.
For the best results, consider making your blog your writing portfolio where you display different articles covering various niches.
It’s easier to land clients when you have live links to published content they can access from anywhere. Here’s an example of a simple freelance writing portfolio that goes straight to the point about what the writer offers.
Image via Donahue Editorial
If you’re good at something, you can charge for one-on-one advice. It could be blogging, marketing, fitness, or even budgeting. Like most monetization strategies we’ve covered so far, you need to possess some level of expertise.
A coaching website could be something as simple as, “I Will Teach You How To Be Rich,” as shown below.
Image via I Will Teach You How To Be Rich
Another great way of making money as you master how to start a blog is by creating webinars and workshops. These webinars and workshops are usually held via live sessions.
You can even use tools like Zoom or Thinkific and earn commissions when people sign up. Here’s an example of a webinar blog by Neil Patel.
Image via Neil Patel
As you figure out how to start a blog, consider memberships and subscriptions in your monetization plans. Memberships and subscriptions offer more control over how you make money as it doesn’t depend on ads, sponsors, or affiliate marketing.
Common examples include the following:
People love to feel like insiders, and when they see value in what you offer, they’re happy to pay for it. So, as you learn how to start a blog, consider offering exclusive content through a paid membership.
You can charge a monthly or yearly fee for access to premium articles, in-depth guides, or even behind-the-scenes updates. If you’re teaching something, you can offer step-by-step tutorials, case studies, or expert interviews.
The key is making the content feel special and worth the price. Here’s an example of a baking blog that offers tutorials at a subscription fee.
Image via Baking for Business
A private community is another viable option for generating money if you want to learn how to start a blog.
While a regular blog can feel like a one-way conversation, a private community makes it a more interactive experience. You can create a members-only website and link it to private groups on social media platforms.
Examples of content you can offer at a fee include live Q&A sessions, personal coaching, or group challenges.
People will pay to be part of a space where they can learn, network, and grow with like-minded people. Adding perks like direct access to you or early access to new content can make memberships even more appealing. Check this example out.
Image via Captain Awkward
You can turn your blog into an online store and sell physical or digital products directly to your readers. For example, you could sell fanfiction books if you’re a talented fiction writer. Some examples you can explore under this category include the following:
Learning how to start a blog to make money also involves selling merchandise. If your blog has a strong brand or community, readers may want to support you by buying products. You can sell t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, or any custom items related to your niche.
Here’s an example of a blog selling printed t-shirts.
Image via One Way
Dropshipping is another way to sell products without keeping inventory. You set up an online store, but instead of buying stock upfront, you work with dropshipping suppliers who ship orders directly to customers.
If your blog focuses on a specific niche, you can find products that match your audience’s interests. For example, a fitness blog could sell workout gear, or a travel blog could offer unique luggage accessories.
Here’s an example of a dropshipping blog you can use as inspiration as you figure out how to start a blog of your own.
Image via Kool Stuff
Sometimes, once you figure out how to start a blog, your readers can choose to donate money to you of their own volition in appreciation of your content.
Whether it's a small one-time tip or a monthly contribution, this income stream can help cover expenses such as hosting, design, and even your time.
Here are some avenues you can use to achieve this.
Patreon allows your audience to subscribe to you for a small monthly fee in exchange for exclusive perks. These perks could be bonus blog posts, early access to content, or even a behind-the-scenes look at your process. It works well for bloggers who create exclusive content and want a steady income stream.
Another common tactic used by bloggers to earn money is requesting money through a “Buy Me a Coffee” button on their blogs.
Instead of a monthly subscription, readers can make one-time donations whenever they choose. It’s a great way to earn from casual readers who might not commit to a subscription but still want to support your work.
You can add a Buy Me a Coffee button to your blog, so visitors can tip you with a few clicks. Some bloggers also use it to sell digital products, such as eBooks or content templates.
For those learning how to start a blog to monetize it, consider using event hosting if you have the skills for it.
Events bring people together, and when done right, they can turn into a strong source of income. You can charge for tickets, offer sponsorships, or sell products during the event. Whether online or in person, hosting events builds trust and keeps your audience engaged.
Some event hosting opportunities you can try out include the following.
Virtual summits are online conferences where experts share knowledge on a specific topic. If you’re working on how to start a blog, you can invite industry leaders to speak on topics your audience cares about.
Attendees pay to join, or you can offer free access and charge for VIP perks, such as recorded sessions or exclusive Q&As.
Workshops and meetups work great for bloggers looking to build a tight-knit community. If your blog focuses on a skill like writing, marketing, or graphics design, you can offer workshops for a fee.
Meetups can also be monetized through ticket sales, sponsorships, or the sale of exclusive content. If you’re new and still learning how to start a blog, small local events can be a great way to meet your audience and get direct feedback. Additionally, recording these events provides you with content to sell later or offer as a membership benefit.
Last on our list of things you can try to monetize your blog is licensing and syndication.
As you explore how to start a blog, licensing can be a great way to earn from your content. When you license your blog posts, other websites or businesses pay you to use them. This means you keep ownership while making passive income. It’s like renting out your words instead of selling them outright.
To do this, create high-quality, evergreen content that stays relevant for a long time. Businesses will be more willing to pay for content they can use repeatedly.
Syndication, on the other hand, allows you to earn money by sharing your content with multiple outlets.
Unlike licensing, where someone else owns the rights, syndication allows you to keep the content on your blog while permitting republishing elsewhere. News sites, industry blogs, and platforms like Medium often syndicate content to reach a bigger audience.
As you go about learning how to start a blog, it’s vital to know that monetizing a blog comes with rules and regulations. For instance, Google Ad Sense has a detailed list of all program policies one must follow or risk their blog being shadowbanned.
To be on the safe side, here are some of the blog monetization best practices you should keep in mind.
If you're figuring out how to start a blog and make money, you’ve gotta follow platform rules. These rules aren’t just random — they keep your account safe and make sure you don’t get banned. Every platform has its own policies, and breaking them can quickly shut down your income.
Take Google AdSense, for example. They’ve got strict rules about content. You can’t post anything shady, misleading, or copyrighted without permission. Your blog needs real, useful content — not just pages stuffed with ads.
If Google thinks you're tricking users or breaking their rules, they’ll block your account with very limited chances for appeals.
One of the most important things you need to do when learning how to start a blog is to be upfront about affiliate links and sponsored content.
This means letting your readers know when you’re getting paid for a link or a post. It keeps things honest and builds trust with your audience. If people feel tricked, they’ll stop visiting your blog.
Many countries have rules about this, too. In the U.S., the FTC requires clear disclosures on paid content. You can't hide them or make them hard to find. If you add an affiliate link, say so. If a company pays you for a post, be upfront about it.
Here’s an example of a simple affiliate marketing disclaimer by Attrock.
Image via Attrock
Similar to disclosing your affiliate marketing, you need to provide verifiable content. One thing to be very careful about as you master how to start a blog is that misinformation will negatively impact your blog.
You need to be honest and clear in your posts. Don't use clickbait titles that don't match your content. Don't spread false information. Misleading content can damage your credibility. It can also drive readers away. It can even lead to legal issues.
Blogging involves a significant amount of creative writing, so plagiarism is common, but it can have devastating consequences. Understanding copyright laws as you learn how to start a blog is crucial.
That means you can’t use someone else’s work — like images, text, or videos —without permission. Grabbing photos from Google or copying content from another blog can get you into legal trouble. It can also hurt your reputation.
You’ve probably seen websites ask for cookie consent and other things. This may seem normal, but there are strict regulations governing how your blog collects user data.
If you’re figuring out how to start a blog and make money from it, data privacy is a big deal. Protecting user data is a key aspect of the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), a law that safeguards individuals' personal data.
This happened to a brand called Taylor and Lord in 2016 when they were penalized by the FTC for failing to disclose that they paid for influencer promotion.
Image via WSJ
Another thing to keep in mind as you learn how to start a blog is FTC guidelines on endorsements.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has rules about endorsements, meaning you must be honest about paid partnerships. If you promote a product, you have to say if you're getting paid or receiving free stuff.
This helps readers know when a recommendation is based on personal experience or influenced by a brand deal. A major part of how to start a blog is creating an authentic connection with your audience.
If you hide paid partnerships, you could get in trouble with the FTC and lose your audience's trust.
If you’re planning to start an ecommerce blog, there’s a high chance you may have to sell in international markets. That means complying with different tax regulations when it comes to payments.
Mastering how to start a blog the right way means keeping track of all payments, expenses, and receipts.
For example, the IRS and local tax agencies expect bloggers to track their earnings and pay what they owe.
In a nutshell, if you're serious about how to start a blog and turn it into a business, staying on top of taxes will save you stress later.
Keeping your site secure is a significant concern if you're serious about learning how to start a blog and earn money from it. If your blog gets hacked, you could lose everything — your content, your audience’s trust, and even your income.
If your site isn’t secure, it may be flagged or even removed from search results. That means fewer visitors and less money.
Here’s an example of a blog that isn’t secure.
Image via Dad or Alive
Finally, it's crucial to avoid click fraud and black hat tactics. This might seem like an easy way to make money, but it can get you banned. If you’re learning how to start a blog and want to make money, you need to keep things honest.
Search engines also penalize shady tactics such as keyword stuffing, purchasing backlinks, and using hidden text. These tricks might boost traffic for a while, but they don’t last. If Google flags your blog, you could lose SEO rankings or get removed from search results.
Readers and advertisers want a site that feels authentic and trustworthy without being misled by fake clicks. As you master how to start a blog, keep all these vital points in mind.
Q1. How do you start a blog for free?
A. Follow the step-by-step instructions given in this guide on how to start a blog, and simply choose free plans/trials of all the tools mentioned.
The basic steps will remain the same, only you can choose to go for free website builders and other tools. You can, for example, install WordPress, choose a WordPress theme, add WordPress plugins, etc. to start a blog for free.
Q2. Does it cost money to start a blog?
A. The only necessary investment to start your blog is to buy reliable web hosting. But, you can choose to go for a free new domain and hosting using a free blogging platform like WordPress, if you want to start a blog completely free.
Starting a WordPress blog or a Blogger blog is a good way to go if you don’t want to spend money.
Q3. Is starting a blog worth it?
A. If you are passionate about a topic or niche and think you can consistently create content on that, then it is worth it to start blogging. Use this post as your guide on how to start a blog.
Q4. How do bloggers get paid?
A. You can make money blogging by getting paid for ads, tool listings, sponsored content, and affiliate link promotions on the website. Once you start a blog, wait for it to generate enough traffic before you start monetizing it.
Q5. What type of blogs make the most money?
A. Any blog in a niche where you can find products to sell and affiliate partners can make money. Some popular blog niches include:
Take your pick and start blogging.
Q6. What percentage of blogs are successful?
A. There are different opinions and survey results on this. Some studies show that only 20% of blogs are successful while others insist that only 5% are successful.
However, the good news for you is that the definition of success is subjective. If you start a blog and build a small but engaged community of readers, then it is a success in itself.
Q7. What types of blogs are most popular?
A. Food, lifestyle, travel, and marketing blogs are some of the most popular options for bloggers.
Q8. What are the basic steps to start a blog?
A. This guide on how to start a blog lists all the steps for bloggers. Here’s a quick list, for your reference:
Q9. How much do blogs make a month?
A. Blogs can realistically make a few thousand dollars a month, while successful ones can make a lot more. So, learn how to start a blog to start a successful one and make enough money to quit your job.
Q10. How can I increase my blog traffic?
A. Promote your blog using the tactics mentioned in this guide on how to start a blog. Here are some that you can try:
This post is a complete guide on how to start a blog and monetize it. Use it as a reference to start a blog that drives traffic and helps you make money.
So, start creating content and winning your audience. Good luck blogging!
Need more help on how to start a blog? Feel free to contact us. We will help you figure out how to monetize your blog through affiliate marketing and content creation.
Disclaimer: This content contains some affiliate links for which we will earn a commission (at no additional cost to you). This is to ensure that we can keep creating free content for you.
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Glad it helped Alex.