As an SEO writer tasked with creating a 5000 word article on the topic “Can we write 2 persons?”, there are a few key things I need to keep in mind. First and foremost, I need to ensure that the content is optimized for search engines by using targeted keywords and answering questions that searchers may have on this topic. Additionally, I need to format the article using HTML tags like H2 subheadings to improve readability. Lastly, I need to provide value to the reader by visualizing any relevant data in HTML tables. Let’s dive in.
What does it mean to “write in 2 persons”?
When discussing writing styles, “person” refers to the perspective from which the text is written. First person uses pronouns like “I” and “we” to tell the story from the narrator’s perspective. Second person uses “you” to speak directly to the reader. Third person uses “he/she/it” to tell the story from an outside perspective.
So writing in “2 persons” means using both first and second person in a single piece of writing. This could mean alternating between sections written in each perspective. Or it could mean addressing the reader in second person (“you”) while still using some first person (“I”) to express the narrator’s viewpoint.
Why would a writer use both first and second person?
There are a few reasons a writer may choose to use both first and second person perspectives in one piece:
- To create a sense of intimacy and connection with the reader by occasionally addressing them directly
- To alternate between a more objective, informational tone (third person) and a more conversational, inclusive tone (second person)
- To recount personal stories or experiences using first person, while also giving instructions or advice using second person
- To allow the narrator to express their thoughts and feelings (first person) while also guiding the reader through steps to take (second person)
Used strategically, combining these two perspectives can help the writer connect with readers, share insights, and guide them through a topic in a more engaging way.
What are some examples of writing in 2 persons?
Here are a few examples of pieces that shift seamlessly between first and second person:
Blog Posts or Essays
A personal essay may use first person to share the author’s experiences, thoughts, or emotions. But it may also address the reader directly in second person to ask rhetorical questions or provide advice based on lessons learned.
Instructional Content
An instructional article or YouTube video may primarily use second person to guide viewers through each step. But the creator may switch to first person occasionally to share tips, tricks, or personal stories about the process.
Conversational Content
Many conversational pieces like podcasts, interviews, or sales letters engage the listener directly in second person. But hosts may also share related personal anecdotes using first person.
How to Write a Blog Post
Let’s walk through an example outline for a blog post written in first and second person:
Introduction (Second Person)
- Hook – Ask a question to introduce the topic and draw readers in.
- Overview – Explain the focus of the post and why it will be useful to them.
- Thesis – Present the central argument or key takeaway you want readers to learn.
Body Paragraph 1 (First Person)
- Tell a brief personal story or anecdote illustrating your own experience with the topic.
- Discuss how the topic has impacted your life in some way.
- Share your thoughts, emotions, and insights based on your experiences.
Body Paragraph 2 (Second Person)
- Address the reader directly with “you” statements.
- Provide tips and advice to guide the reader on the topic based on your expertise.
- Use inclusive “we” language at times to walk through steps together.
- Present 2-3 key facts, statistics, or examples to help teach the reader.
Body Paragraph 3 (First Person)
- Share another relevant personal experience.
- Reflect on what you learned from this experience.
- Explain how it deepened your understanding of the topic.
Conclusion (Second Person)
- Summarize the key points you want readers to takeaway.
- Call the reader to action by suggesting next steps to implement the advice.
- Invite them to share their own experiences with the topic.
This example demonstrates how writers can leverage both perspectives strategically throughout a piece. The first person voice adds a personal touch while second person provides practical guidance.
What are some tips for writing effectively this way?
Here are some tips to help you write smoothly in first and second person:
- Pick perspective carefully – Don’t switch back and forth randomly. Use each purposefully in the right spots.
- Transition intentionally – Use transitional phrases like “For me…” or “In your case…” to cue perspective changes.
- Establish both voices early – Introduce first person anecdotes and second person advice near the beginning.
- Limit first person usage – Use sparingly to avoid sounding self-involved. Second person should drive most of the piece.
- Address the reader consistently – Stick with “you” rather than shifting between “you,” “readers,” “we,” etc.
- Rely on active voice and imperatives – Second person works best in an active, conversational tone using “you + verb.”
With practice, you can learn to blend first and second person seamlessly. The perspectives allow you to inform readers while also connecting with them on a personal level.
What are the pros and cons of writing this way?
Let’s examine some potential advantages and drawbacks of using both first and second person in your writing:
Potential Advantages
- Makes your writing more engaging and personable
- Allows you to leverage different techniques and tones
- Variety can help sustain reader interest
- Can strengthen your connection with readers
- Adds credibility when sharing personal experiences
- Let’s you guide readers more directly
Potential Drawbacks
- Perspective changes can be jarring if not handled skillfully
- Overuse of first person may seem self-centered or cloying
- Frequent switching between “I” and “you” can confuse readers
- Second person is not appropriate for purely factual or academic writing
- Sudden switch from third to second person can appear abrupt
As with any technique, there are tradeoffs to consider. But used strategically, writing in two persons can help craft more engaging, persuasive content.
When writing this way works best:
- Conversational blog posts, articles & essays
- Instructional tutorials and guides
- Self-help or personal development content
- Inspirational speaking or memoir writing
- Marketing campaigns with a personal element
- Fiction writing from a first person perspective
When to avoid this approach:
- Technical writing requiring an objective tone
- Strictly academic papers in third person
- News articles without opinion or analysis
- Business reports relying solely on facts/data
- Third person omniscient novels with an unseen narrator
Knowing when not to use first or second person can be as important as knowing when they are appropriate. Consider the expectations of your genre and audience.
Examples of Effective Use in Different Content Types
Let’s analyze some real-world examples of how writers leverage both first and second person effectively based on the type of content:
Blog Post Example
“How I Overcame My Fear of Public Speaking (And How You Can Too)”
- Uses first person in title/subtitle to share author’s personal experience overcoming a common fear
- Introduction paragraph addresses reader directly with “you” to draw them in with a common anxiety
- Shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned in first person throughout post
- Provides concrete tips, strategies, and exercises in second person for readers to try
Product Review Example
“Why This Baking Sheet Changed My Life – And Will Upgrade Your Baking Game”
- First person title establishes author’s personal experience with the product
- Review details “my” use of the baking sheets and “I” statements on how they impacted author’s baking
- “You” statements recommend product and provide tips to reader for using it effectively
Recipe Example
“Grandma’s Famous Chili Recipe That Always Hits the Spot”
- First person title/subtitle hints at personal connection to recipe
- Introduction uses first person to describe memories of eating grandmother’s chili
- Instructions written directly in second person to walk reader through recreating it
These examples demonstrate how naturally alternating between first and second person can help engage readers in different content types.
Should You Try Writing This Way?
Here are some questions to help determine if writing in first and second person could be appropriate for your goals and audience:
- Do you want to connect with readers in a conversational, informal way?
- Does your topic lend itself to sharing personal stories or experiences?
- Would your content benefit from mixing objective facts with subjective insights?
- Do you need to give step-by-step guidance or instructions?
- Does your industry or writing style lean more toward casual rather than formal?
If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, experimenting with first and second person perspectives could add dimension to your writing. But always consider whether the style matches the tone you want to convey.
While not right for every situation, combining these two perspectives can help create a more engaging reader experience when used intentionally. Writers of all types can benefit by adding these techniques to their toolkit.
Conclusion
Writing in both first and second person allows writers to utilize the strengths of both intimate, personal perspectives in one piece. When used strategically, this variety can help grab reader attention, guide them through key ideas, and forge a powerful connection. However, perspective shifts should always be intentional and consistent variations on voice can become confusing. By understanding when each is appropriate and transitioning smoothly between the two, writers can craft content that informs, entertains, inspires, and resonates.
| Perspective | Definition | Examples | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Person | Uses pronouns “I” and “we” to tell the story from the writer’s perspective | “I believe…” or “In my experience…” | Sharing personal stories, experiences, thoughts |
| Second Person | Uses pronoun “you” to speak directly to the reader | “You should…” or “As you can see…” | Giving instructions, advice, or guidance |