Everybody’s doing it! And while that logic never got far with your mother, it’s a fine reason to start blogging, especially if you have a business to build or a cause to promote. Well-run blogs do more than offer an outlet for your thoughts. They’ve actually influenced everything from a company’s image to the outcome of a local election.

Because the blogosphere is pretty crowded, it’s a good idea to find out a bit about the anatomy of a blog, what makes a good one, and what it takes to keep one going before you dive right in and start sharing with the world. Blogging For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you all the basics so you can get a good start. And if you’ve been around the blog a few times and want to advance to the next level, Blogging For Dummies, 2nd Edition even takes a look at podcasting and videoblogging.

You’ll find out how to:

Make your blog stand out in a crowd, build an audience, and even make it pay

Choose the best software options, boost readership, and handle comments

Generate revenue from your blog with ads and sponsorships

Protect your privacy and your job

Deal with spam and the inappropriate comments from that guy who posts several times a day

Find your niche

Attract and keep readers

Use your blog to promote your business, cause, or organization

Add audio, video, cool widgets, and more

Ready? Get Blogging for Dummies and let’s get started!