Need some extra cash? Why not turn to your pen to earn some? The market for short articles is even bigger than it was several years ago, thanks to the internet, and there's no reason why you can't be out there claiming your share of the money.

The most important thing you can do to begin is to decide what subjects you are knowledgeable on. Your hobbies, interests and job are an excellent starting point. Jot down some ideas for articles you think you can write; you will find that once you start this exercise, more ideas will start to come, and you'll have plenty to choose from.

The next step, now that you have an idea of what to write about, is to locate some markets to submit your work to. Top tipstay well clear of the mass market magazines. They pay extremely well, but the competition is fierce. Stick to the smaller, lower paying end of the market to begin with. It's far easier to break in here, and you'll be able to build up a portfolio of published pieces much more quickly.

When you have decided what to write and where to send it, create a query targeted to that particular magazine or website. Most editors prefer to receive a query, rather than a completed piece, and it also means you will know whether they are interested before having to write a single word!

Study the market to get an idea of style. Some editors like short, snappy articles; others prefer lots of detail and description. Pay close attention to this when you begin to write.

The final and most important thing to remember when you begin to write is' never give up. You will improve naturally over time. If you get rejected, simply dust yourself off and send out another query. You will succeed, and begin to sell pieces regularly, if you stick at it.

Good luck!