As with any other type of classified advertisement, the contents are only as good as the person composing them. Below are a few tips for making sure that a high quality online classified advertisement is posted.

A good online classified advertisement is concise, but still manages to give a good description. For this reason, using whole words instead of abbreviations and simple language is best. The best way to start when composing an online classified advertisement is to write a rough draft. Any Word document will do, even something as simple as "Notebook" or "Wordpad." The document should be given a file name, so that updates and changes can be saved.

The most important details should be placed as close to the beginning as possible. For instance, if the composer is describing a vehicle for sale, one word which best describes the vehicle’s body style should appear first. Most likely that word will be either "car" "truck" or "motorcycle." From there, the year, make, model, color, and current odometer reading should be the first thing the viewer sees. Once that information is entered and verified for accuracy, then other descriptive information can be added.

If the composer is someone looking to buy a vehicle, then the same guidelines set out above can also apply, with the words "wanting to buy" placed immediately before the rest of the description. This will ensure that viewers do not mistake a "wanting to buy" ad for a "for sale" ad, thus saving everyone time, and eliminating any unnecessary communications.

Other items for sale should follow the same general guidelines, with the first word being what is being offered for sale ("washing machine" "washer/dryer" "lawn mower") followed by other important information. Once the description and most pertinent information have been composed and entered into the word document, the composer can then concentrate on other aspects of the advertisement, and next should come price.

The asking price should be quoted, and then a notation inserted specifying if the price is "firm" or "negotiable." If the buyer is willing to entertain any reasonable price, the words "Make an Offer" should be prominently displayed.

Services offered follow the same general guidelines, with a one-word ("Freelance Writer", "Sitter for Elderly") appearing first, then other information. Salary/Compensation desired should be quoted, or a notation stating "Salary/Compensation Negotiable" should be readily visible.

Because online classified advertisements often generate responses from other areas, which may include those located in the same state, but also those that are in other states, regions, or even overseas, the next thing that should be clarified is how the buyer will take possession of the merchandise. If it is the buyer’s responsibility to make arrangements, then the ad should clearly state "buyer is responsible for making arrangements to take possession".

If the advertiser feels that some assistance can be given in this area, the advertisement may be worded "Seller is willing to meet…" and a specific distance given. The distance can be given either in mileage, travel time or a specific destination.

For instance, an advertiser may say, "Seller is located in Columbus, Georgia; is willing to meet buyer from Atlanta area in Newnan. Call or contact to arrange meeting place." Another might say, "Seller is located in Columbus, GA; will meet at a destination two hours away". Another might say, "Seller will deliver if buyer is within 50 miles of Columbus, GA."

Again, safety and protection should remain uppermost in mind. Meetings should be in a public place, and proper precautions observed. In fact, it is a good idea for an advertiser to include exactly where he or she is located, even if it does not necessarily have anything to do with delivery options. Viewers will appreciate knowing this information, as it will help them determine if distance will be an issue.

Because online classified advertisements do often provide more space than conventional classified advertisements, thus making it unnecessary to "scrimp" on information, the seller actually has more of an opportunity to be honest about what is being sold. If an item needs work, for instance, the seller can say, "Needs motor," or "needs cosmetic repairs". Or, the seller can say, "Item is sold 'as is'".

Concerning those advertisements that will go into "Personals", "Adult" or similar categories, it is strictly the composer’s preference as to what "attributes" or information should go first. One advertiser may feel that personal appearance should be given highest value, while another may wish to make any conditions or preferences regarding a partner or other information known immediately.

Once the advertisement has been written out, the composer can then make any changes that are necessary until he or she is satisfied with the way the ad will appear. From there, the decision as to the best place to post the ad can be made.

This is a good time to consider specific websites, especially if a particular product or service is being offered. For example, one website accepts advertisements for only those things which run by a motor or engine. However, the website goes further, and even breaks that down. An advertiser can choose from a site that posts only cars to sell or buy, then one that posts only trucks to sell or buy, and so on.