How to Make a Horoscope Online
While divination is a religious phenomenon that many people believe in, it is also a recreational diversion for others. Many people do not understand the religious implications of horoscopes and other astrological tools. Often, creative writers and journalists will produce false predictions for entertainment purposes. These horoscopes do not rely on astrology but rather psychology, and function by making broad statements that could be factual on any given day. Many people enjoy reading this type of horoscope on a daily basis, which is why writing horoscopes online can help you build a regular readership.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
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Research by reading horoscopes. Develop a base knowledge of the type of language, imagery and advice used successfully by online and print columnists. Run a search on a major search engine (e.g Google, Bing, AOL) for "horoscopes," "astrology," or other related terminology. Pay special attention to the top-listed sites as they are receiving the most traffic and have the best use of search engine optimized (SEO) keywords.
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Study the P.T. Barnum Effect. List the elements in Barnum phenomena as rules for writing your horoscopes. The Barnum effect relies on vague generalizations, so being vague is key.
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Study the 12 signs (Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius). Read up on the characteristics of each sign so that you can tailor horoscopes to each "personality type" (e.g., Cancers are emotional, Pisces are romantic, the Sagittarius is wise).
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Write a three-to-five-sentence horoscope. Use knowledge of the Barnum effect and signs' personalities to make it more believable. Address the reader. Provide a time line for your message to be in effect. Give good advice. (Be wary of "friendly" business advice this week, dear Capricorn. Your kind heart and trusting nature will leave you open to attack from unsavory characters. Rely on your keen instincts to avoid trouble. And remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.)
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Reread your horoscope and check for desired elements. Make sure it address the reader. Determine if the message will be true for the majority of readers. Check for correct spelling and grammar; while you may use a conversational tone, avoid typographically incorrect and otherwise careless writing.
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Post the horoscope online. Use a free publishing service or existing social network, such as Blogger, Facebook, Wix, Geocities. Opt for a pen name if you wish to keep your horoscope writing separate from the rest of your digital profiles.
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Tips & Warnings
While horoscopes have transcended religious practice and been placed side by side with the funnies, this does not mean astrologists have abandoned their beliefs. Be sensitive to the religious sensibilities of others.
Some people take horoscopes very seriously. If you are writing for entertainment purposes only, place a notice to that effect at the bottom of your horoscope pages. Do not intentionally cause harm to another with false predictions.
People may offer you money for extended, personal readings. Make it clear that your readings are for recreational purposes only before accepting a contract.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Astrological clock in Prague image by Bambuh from Fotolia.com
