How to Improve Software Blogging by Avoiding Common Traps
Software writer Michael Lynch shares tips on how to improve tech blogging by dropping stiff language and explaining terms clearly. Writers should use their natural voice instead of relying on artificial intelligence tools that make content look the same.
In short: Software writer Michael Lynch shares tips on how to improve tech blogging by dropping stiff language and explaining terms clearly. Writers should use their natural voice instead of relying on artificial intelligence tools that make content look the same.
Writing about technology can be tricky, but a few simple changes can help your blog posts stand out from the crowd.
What happened, in plain words
On October 7th, 2026, a writer named Simon Willison shared advice from Michael Lynch about common writing mistakes in software blogs. The advice warns against long introductions, forgetting what readers already know, and using too many links instead of explaining terms directly. It also highlights that many developers use artificial intelligence to write their posts, which makes articles sound boring and identical.
Key points
- Skip the long introductions Writers should avoid meandering intros that delay getting to the main point of the article.
- Explain terms instead of just linking them Articles should still make complete sense even if readers do not click on any hyperlinks.
- Use your natural voice Beginner software bloggers often mistakenly think they need a stiff, overly formal tone to be taken seriously.
- Avoid robotic writing Delegating writing tasks to artificial intelligence leads to bland and homogenous content, while readers want personality.
Terms explained
- Anti-Patterns — Common responses to recurring problems that usually lead to bad outcomes instead of good ones. Example: Using a hammer to fix a broken glass is an anti-pattern because it makes the situation worse.
- Artificial Intelligence — Computer systems built to perform tasks that typically need human thinking, such as writing text. Example: A computer program that drafts an email for you based on a few quick notes.
Why it matters
These tips help people who write about technology communicate more clearly with their readers, making articles more engaging and easier to understand.
What we still don't know
The source only provides a short summary of advice and does not offer a complete, step-by-step guide on how to master software blogging.
Based on reporting from Simon Willison. This is an independent explainer, written in our own words with AI assistance; Simon Willison has not reviewed or endorsed it. Read the original for the full details.