Why Blog?

We are often asked by beginners about what is a blog, and how is it different from a website? If you are thinking about starting a blog or a website, then understanding these terms will help you meet your goals. In this beginner’s guide, we will explain what is a blog and how is it different from a traditional website.

What is a Blog?

A blog is a type of website where the content is presented in a reverse chronological order (newer content appear first). Blog content is often referred to as entries or “blog posts”. Blogs are typically run by an individual or a small group of people to present information in a conversational style. However, now there are tons of corporate blogs that produce tons of informational and thought-leadership style content. Typical blog posts also have a comments section where users can respond to the article.

History of Blogs

Blogs evolved from online diaries and journals in the mid-90s. At that time, internet users were already running personal web pages where they published regular updates about their personal lives, thoughts, and social commentary. The term weblog was first used during the late 90s, which later became ‘weblog’, and then just ‘blog’.

Due to the growing number of such web pages, several tools started to appear which made it easier for users to create online journals and blogs. These tools helped popularize blogging and made the technology accessible to non-technical users.

In 1999, the popular blogging website Blogger.com was launched, which was later acquired by Google in February 2003. The same year, WordPress released its first version as a blogging platform in May 2003. Today, WordPress is the world’s most popular blogging platform powering over 30% of all websites.

What is The Difference Between Blog and Website?

Blogs are a type of website. The only real difference between a blog and other types of website is that blogs are regularly updated with new content displayed in a reversed chronological order (newer posts first).

Typical websites are static in nature where content is organized in pages, and they are not updated frequently. Whereas a blog is dynamic, and it is usually updated more frequently. Some bloggers publish multiple new articles a day.

Blogs can be a part of the larger website. Often businesses have a blog section where they regularly create content to inform and educate their customers. Because you can use WordPress to create a website and blog, a lot of business owners use WordPress to build their small business website.

In simple terms, all blogs can be a website or part of a website. However, not all websites can be called blogs.

For example, WPBeginner is a blog and a website. Our website has other content which is published in a non-blog format like glossary, about us, and contact pages.

What is The Difference Between Blog Posts and Pages?

WordPress is the most popular blogging platform, and it has two default content types: posts and pages. Often beginners get confused between the two. Blog posts are displayed in a reverse chronological order (newest to oldest) on your blog page because they are timely content which means your users will have to dig deeper to view older posts.

Pages are static “one-off” type content such as your about page, contact page, products or services pages, and more. To learn more, see our beginner’s guide on the difference between posts and pages. Pages are usually used to create a website structure and layout. Even blogs can have pages alongside them (See our list of important pages that every blog should have).

Why Do People Blog? What are The Benefits of Blogging?

Each individual blogger has their own motivation for blogging. Many of them use it as an alternative to keeping a diary or journal. Blogging provides them with a venue to share their creativity and ideas to a wider audience. Top brands and businesses create blogs to educate their customers, share news, and reach a wider audience. Blogging is an essential part of online marketing strategy for many businesses.

Following are just a few benefits of blogging.

• Provides an avenue to organize your thoughts and ideas
• Allows you to showcase your skills, creativity, and talents
• Help individuals become an authority in their industry
• Helps you socialize with interesting like-minded people online
• Many bloggers make money from their blogs using various monetization methods
• Businesses use blogging to bring more potential customers to their websites
• Non-profits can use blogs to raise awareness, run campaigns, and influence public opinion

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