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“If you want to create a great piece of writing, you have to be in total control of the reader’s experience,” said Scott Dikkers, The Onion’s founding editor and longest-serving editor-in-chief.

Dikkers held the position from 1988 to 1999, then from 2005 to 2008, and again from 2011 to 2013. He’s also a screenwriter and a #1 New York Times best selling author with more than twenty books to his name.

During his tenure, The Onion evolved from a local print magazine in Madison, Wisconsin, into a satirical juggernaut. Today, it’s a globally renowned media house with nearly 20 million social followers and over 10 million monthly visitors.

We were speaking over the phone. I was interviewing Scott to better understand his approach to writing, the process he uses to engage and connect with readers.

“The reader is a puppet and the writer is pulling the strings,” said Dikkers.

“The writer’s job is to manipulate the reader’s emotions, to push their buttons — and if you don’t know what you’re doing, you’re never going to succeed, whether you’re writing satire or anything else.”

Needless to say, if anybody knows how to write great content — content that readers can’t help but to consume, share, and come back to again and again — it’s Scott Dikkers. He grew The Onion from a seed in the dirt to a brand that commands attention around the world.

This article is about the writing principles that enabled his success.

Scott Dikkers, On Writing

The Onion is a humor publication. Its content is satire. That is, the jokes have something to say about the world, about society, politics, and people with power.

Over the years, Dikkers has punched up and published thousands of articles that have made readers laugh — and think. And like any professional editor, he’s maintained his standards by following a set of guidelines.

In his book, How to Write Funny, Scott details his process, explaining how to create hilarious writing at an elite level. And while some of his techniques are specific to crafting jokes, many are also applicable to any writing discipline.

Dikkers and other talented humorists are playing by the same engagement rules as are copywriters and content marketers.

In other words, the tenants of humor writing are transferable to lead-gen articles and columns, landing pages and emails, web pages, video scripts, and speeches.

Because every writer’s goal is identical: control the reader’s experience.

When you have control, you have leverage to deliver the message in an engaging and compelling way, a way that sells. And whether you’re selling a product or a service, a belief system or a joke, following these writing principles will help you reliably hook, engage, and compel readers.

Ready for a master class? Let’s dive in …

1. Concept is king.

“What’s going to make your content stand out?”

For a long time, The Onion was a physical weekly newspaper distributed for free on the street. So, in the early days — before anyone cared enough about the brand to seek it out — the success of every issue hinged on the strength of its headline.

“I knew we had to grab people’s attention with the concept, the headline,” said Dikkers. “I knew we had to put the joke first so that people were laughing before they even picked up the paper.”

Decades later, the internet has only reinforced this principle.

“We live in an attention economy where there are billions of online articles to read,” said Dikkers. “But when the headline really speaks to you — when it addresses a personal problem or promises to answer a burning question — you’re going to click it. You’re going to read that article.

“Your concept — and I would equate that with your headline or title — is the flag you’re raising, it’s the shingle on your door. And if it’s not a good concept or the right concept, then you’re sunk before you’ve even written a word.”

How do you know what the “right” concept is? Start with your target audience:

What pleasures are they seeking?

What pains are they trying to assuage?

2. The key to quality is quantity.

“Basically, 95% of everything we create is garbage.”

When The Onion grew to about six or seven staff writers, each one was expected to bring 20 headlines to a weekly brainstorming meeting.

“We quickly realized that the quality of our ideas increased with the number of ideas people brought in,” said Dikkers. “When you have six high-performing comedy writers coming up with 20 ideas each, you’re gonna walk away with a dozen headlines that are just solid, I mean really funny — and that practice is still in use at The Onion.”

Today’s team examines several hundred headlines every week, picking only a dozen or so for publication. Late-night talk shows follow the same strategy: selecting their best monologue jokes from a place of abundance.

“This is how professionals work,” said Dikkers, “because they understand that most of what they write is dreck.”

3. Omit needless words.

“The shorter the better.”

Superfluous words take up space, slow down the reader, and dilute the message.

“Any time I edit a joke, I look for ways to reduce,” said Dikkers. “Cutting even a single syllable can make the joke punchier, better.

“But this applies to all kinds of writing because when you trim the fat, you get to the core of your message. And sometimes, after you’ve cut everything, you could realize that you weren’t really saying anything at all — and while that realization might be sad, it’s also very valuable.

“Because if you don’t have a message, why are you writing in the first place?”

4. Ruffle some feathers.

“This is how your message will stand the test of time.”

Satire is divided into a couple categories, which are based on two ancient Roman satirists: Juvenal and Horace.

Horatian satire, generally, is not offensive. It’s acceptable to all strata of society because it’s relatively gentle and light-hearted, designed to amuse people and get a laugh. It’s foolish and innocent and superficial, like a court jester.

Juvenalian satire, on the other hand, pushes buttons. It addresses perceived social evils, poking holes in the status quo. It defends the marginalized and speaks truth to power. It’s bitter and dangerous and important, like 1984.

“Thing is, Horatian satire isn’t really remembered because it’s toothless,” said Dikkers. “It might get a lot of laughs today but it’s not going to live in our cultural memory. Only satire that angers or offends people will be remembered.”

What is your content’s message? What’s your goal?

5. Don’t fall in love.

“Kill your darlings.”

If you get so attached to an idea (e.g., a headline; a turn of phrase) that you’re unwilling to 1) hear feedback on it and 2) move onto something new, then you’re “in love.”

This happens a lot, especially to new writers with a small body of work. After all, the less work you have to your name, the more weight each new idea holds.

“When a writer has just one idea, it causes their soul to feel crushed when someone critiques that idea in a way that makes them doubt it,” said Dikkers. “They link that idea with their personality and, in turn, take any feedback as a personal slight against them.”

Avoid falling in love with any one idea. It’s unproductive, a distraction that’ll keep you from giving the audience what they want or need.

Serve your readers, not yourself.

6. Be specific.

“Detail almost always makes writing better.”

Specificity doesn’t necessarily call for verbosity. Instead, it demands clarity: crisp imagery that uses one or more of the five senses to paint a mental picture.

The Catcher in the Rye, for example, is saturated with specificity:

He came over and stood right in my light. “Hey,” I said. “I’ve read this sentence about twenty times since you came in.”

Notice how Salinger gives the reader incredible context — how he illustrates a clear physical and metaphysical image — using only a handful of words.

“Whether you’re writing humor or anything else, the same rule applies: use specific detail,” said Dikkers. “These little pieces of specific detail are critical because they help the author paint a picture that enables the reader to feel an emotion.”

And almost all writers should strive to conjure an emotional response, as it’ll compel people to take action: to laugh, to hit the like button, to take out their credit card and make a purchase.

7. Proofread.

“It’s a mode of conveying professionalism.”

Mistakes, even little ones, set something off in an editor’s brain — and it’s never anything good.

“When it comes to submitting — because many people get jobs in comedy by submitting a packet of jokes or sketches — you might’ve done all the hard work of learning how to write comedy and you’re perfect for the job,” explained Dikkers, “but if you don’t take the time to proofread it for grammar and spelling and syntax, there are plenty of other qualified, hilarious people who will. And they’ll get hired.

“Proofing your work is an easy way to increase your chances of achieving your goal, whether that’s connecting with readers or getting a life-changing job.”

8. Show, don’t tell.

“You’re going to be so much more effective at engaging an audience if you do.”

This concept can tie a knot in your brain because, as a writer, all you do is “tell” the reader things, right? How can you “show” people something by merely using black letters on a white page?

“It’s easy to say, ‘Bob is mean,’” said Dikkers. “That’s telling. You’re telling the reader what the character’s traits are. But if you show the character’s traits, it’s so much more engaging for the reader. So, instead, you’d say, ‘Bob just stabbed a baby through the heart!’”

Using an example, analogy, or any number of literary devices is just a better way to communicate information. It paints an image that conjures a feeling, an emotion — and that’s what readers want.

“If you want to write engaging content,” said Dikkers, “you need to take one step back, hide your message, and instead just show what you think and feel. Let the audience get there on their own.”

9. Make it accessible.

“Your writing needs to be understandable to just about every level of reader.”

If your writing is too dense, too complicated or confusing, most people won’t read it. As a writer, the onus is on you to compel people to read.

“Your work needs to reference things that people can understand without caveats or prerequisites,” said Dikkers. “It should be an easy-on ramp to the superhighway of your writing.”

Authorial intent, or the need to interpret the underlying meaning of an author’s work, has no place in the attention economy. As a 21st century writer, your priority is to ensure the audience understands you — and if they don’t, it’s your job to think, How can I make this more clear?

10. Know your joke and make sure the reader knows your joke.

“Always be in control.”

When you give a speech, you’re supposed to say what you’re going to talk about, then you talk about it, and then, at the end, you tell the audience what you talked about. In other words, be explicit. Make sure your point is unambiguous.

Of course, this principle applies to all writing.

“As a humor writer, you have to know your joke’s subtext,” said Dikkers. “You have to know what funny filters you’re using to elucidate that subtext and how you’re organizing your joke to make sure the audience is laughing at the right thing and time.

“You need to control as much of the experience as possible in order to make it all work.”

This is also true for copywriters and columnist, novelists, screenwriters, and playwrights. In fact, writers in every discipline must understand their topic, their audience, and the purpose behind their work.

Without that information, the puppeteer is pulling strings in the dark.

“Here’s the thing, Eddie,” said Scott.

I turned up the volume on my phone.

“Readers want to know they’re in the hands of a master who is going to manipulate them,” he said, “the way Spielberg does in his movies. He takes you on a ride, through the highs and lows.

“Audiences love that. Readers love that. They want to be taken for that ride.”

Want more world-class writing advice from Scott Dikkers? Click HERE to preview his book, How to Write Funny, one of the best writing manuals I’ve ever read.

Instagram isn’t a new platform, but it changes so often, sometimes it’s hard to keep up.

You might have some questions: how can I add the new geofilters feature to my Instagram Story? Can I use my Snapchat filters on my Instagram pictures? What’s up with this new update — how do I even apply a filter anymore?

Whether you’re an Instagram pro and stuck on choosing the best filter, or an Instagram beginner and not sure how to even apply a filter, you’re in luck. Here, we’ve covered everything from the most popular filters in the U.S., to how to use Instagram filters and even how to use a Snapchat filter on Instagram. Get ready to take your Instagram images to the next level.

Most Popular Filters

There’s a reason most of us turn to our friends to ask, “Which filter should I use?”

With 25 Instagram filter options, it can be tough to choose one. A filter can change the whole mood of an image, and it can even lead to more likes and comments. So wouldn’t it be helpful to know which filters the majority of the U.S. likes best?

Luckily for you, Canva recently analyzed the filters of over one million Instagram photos to figure out which filters are most popular.

Next time you’re in decision-paralysis over an Instagram filter, take a look at this list of the top eight Instagram filters below.

1. Clarendon

2. Gingham

3. Juno

4. Lark

5. Mayfair

6. Sierra

7. Valencia

8. Walden

To use Instagram filters, open the app and either take a picture or upload a picture (or video) from your camera roll.

Tap next, and then tap the filter you want to apply.

If you want to adjust the filter’s strength, tap the filter again.

Click done when you’re happy with your filter.

On the next page, you can add captions, tag people, or add locations. When you’re ready, click share in the top right corner.

How to Use Snapchat Filters on Instagram

But what about when you want to use a filter outside of Instagram’s options? Snapchat offers a whole different array of filters, including face filters and animated filters. If you want to show your Instagram audience your goofiest Snapchat puppy-dog face, you’re in luck. Here’s how.

When you post a picture to your Instagram story, have you ever been frustrated you can’t add a fun geofilter to the image like you can on Snapchat? Recently, Instagram released its own version of Snapchat’s geofilters, called Instagram “Geostickers.” Right now, Geostickers are only available in New York City and Jakarta, Indonesia, so if you live in one of those places, here’s how you can use the new Geosticker feature.

While an eye-catching resume alone probably won’t land you your dream gig, it doesn’t hurt to put a little extra effort into how you present yourself on paper.

The right resume design speaks to your individual skills and personality, and can propel your application to the top of the stack. But finding a cool design that also fits your professional identity can be a major hassle — and applying for jobs is already hard enough.

We’ve scoured the web for some of the best resume templates to help you stand out in a sea of Times New Roman and crowded copy.

You’ll want to steal each and every one of these creative resume templates — and the good news is: You can! These generous designers have made their work available for free download. Read on to check them out and find a great fit for your next job application.

We’ve organized them by the type of candidate they’re best for.

The 17 Best Resume Templates for Every Type of Professional

Best for Creatives

These templates emphasize the design, color, and typography skills that creatives need to show from the get-go.

1. Resume Template with a Photo Background

This template from Polish designer Patryk Korycki is perfect for photographers, graphic designers, and other creatives looking to showcase a sample of their best work. The template can be downloaded here for free.

2. Monochromatic and Retro Resume Template

This design from freelancer Fay Zodiac is a whimsical take on traditional resumes. The retro typography adds a playful element, while the boxy layout keeps everything from looking too busy or crowded. You can download this resume design here for free.

3. Vibrant and Visual Resume Template

Alessia Curcio, a Copenhagen-based designer, gives us a perfect example of how to incorporate kaleidoscopic color without going over the top. Infographic-inspired elements help clearly display work experience and skills with minimal text. Download Curcio’s free template here.

4. Infographic Style Resume Template

Created by digital art director and freelance designer Fernando Báez, this unique, infographic-inspired resume template helps you organize your work experience and skills into a minimal visual layout. Báez has made the template available for free download here.

Best for Freelancers

These templates emphasize the headshot photo for freelancers who might not meet their employers in person, and need substantial text space and a visual to offer something memorable.

5. Resume Template with a Simple Color Accent

Adding color to a resume might seem intimidating at first — especially if you’re applying to a more traditional workplace — but a few sophisticated pops of color can add some interest without compromising on professionalism. This template from designer Eduardo Ogawa uses bright accents to spice up the traditional layout. You can download it for free here.

6. Bold Classic Resume Template

If you’re looking for a more traditional resume template that still makes a bold impression, check out this creation from Finish designer Mats-Peter Forss. The template includes space for a headshot, and is available for free download here.

7. Resume Template with Pops of Primary Colors

Proof that color can be professional, this template boasts a compact, sophisticated layout and bright, colorful accents. It also has room for a substantial summary. Designer David Gómez actually uses this resume template himself, and he’s been generous enough to share it for free download here.

Best for Recent Graduates

These templates make great use of empty space — perfect for students who are still building experience — through eye-catching designs that help these candidates make a splash in their industry.

8. Graphic and Adventurous Resume Template

This is not a resume template for wallflowers. The folks at Createer whipped up this daring design as part of a free resume template pack, which you can check out here.

9. Resume Template with an Unexpected Format

If you want to really stand out in a crowded applicant pool, then this resume is definitely for you. Graphic designer and freelance photographer Paolo Pettigiani created this bold template for his own professional use, but has made it available for free download here.

10. Center-Aligned Resume Template

If you want to mix up your resume format without going too crazy, try a center-aligned layout, like this clean, modern design by Zohan Habib. The custom icons and colored border add a nice creative touch. This template is available for free download here.

Best for Executive/Upper-Level Professionals

These templates offer ample real estate for candidates to express their deep experience in the plain but formal manner that many employers expect.

11. Black and White Resume Template

Running low on colored ink? Check out this minimal black and white template from editorial designer Bro Luthfi. The simple design is anything but boring, and includes a set of custom icons to add some visual interest. You can download the free template here.

12. Clean and Modern Resume Template

Your resume is really your first impression with a potential employer, and this template design from the team at GoaShape is modern without being too edgy. The template pack includes a two-page resume layout and cover letter design, and can be downloaded for free here.

13. Resume Template with Subtle Color Scheme

Beirut-based designer Wassim Awadallah serves up a simple, two-page resume template for more advanced professionals. Displaying the headshot and contact information on the cover leaves plenty of room on the second page to document all your career highlights and accomplishments. Download the template for free here.

Best for People Changing Careers

These templates help those who are changing industries organize their experience by skill, rather than employer. Sections can be customized to the candidate who needs to show how his/her background can transfer.

14. Resume Template with an Organized Use of Space

When you’re trying to crunch years of work experience and a laundry list of skills onto a single sheet of paper, things tend to get crowded quickly. This template from designer Tina Von Helsinki invites you to simplify. The distinct sections highlight different aspects of your qualifications — eliminating anything extraneous and putting the focus on what matters to your potential employers the most. Download the template here.

15. Playful and Professional Resume Template

Italian designer Martina Cavalieri created this resume template with a set of 16 custom icons to highlight your interests and skills. The modern layout is anchored by a bold two-toned border: just enough color to help your resume stand out in the pile. Cavalieri offers this template for free download here.

Best for Hardcore Marketers

We couldn’t help ourselves. Although every template in this blog post can work for marketers, the templates below are perfect for those who love to brand themselves.

16. Heavy Header Resume Template

“Hey, you!” That’s what I think of when I see this flashy yet classy template. Made by designer Mike Bradshaw, the resume features a variety of sections without seeming too cluttered. Long first or last names might look overwhelming with this header, but it certainly does a good job conveying a breadth of information. Download it for free here.

17. Profile Style Resume Template

This last resume was actually designed by the company, Hloom, and is rather plain. But there’s something so familiar about it: The resume header looks like a Facebook profile! While Hloom suggests the lengthy skills section could make this template appealing to the IT industry, we think it is equally perfect for digital marketers — especially those who work in social media. Download it for free here.

Didn’t find the design you were looking for? We bet you’ll find an awesome template in this free resume template pack.