How To Use Public Domain Files Intelligently Part 1

Obtaining public domain files is one thing. But using it intelligently and effectively is a whole different ball game. Really, if you think about it, anyone can get their hands on these works that have expired copyrights. But not everyone knows how to use it. And more importantly how to profit from it. That's where the line is drawn. These lessons will show you a trick or two, I hope, and get you on the the right track to making money from public domain for years and years to come. You probably already have have access to several public domain files. If you want to obtain plenty of copyright-free content to last a lifetime, visit http://www.InstantAuthors.com But first, a quick reference sheet on what can be considered public domain: Unpublished works from authors who died before 1935. Works published in the US before 1923. Works published without a copyright notice from 1923 through 1977. Works published without notice, and without subsequent registration from 1978 to March 1, 1989. Works published with notice but copyright was not renewed from 1923 through 1963. Works published outside the US before July 1, 1909. Works published outside the US in compliance with US formalities between July 1, 1909 and 1922. Works published outside the US between 1923 and 1977 and in the public domain of its home country as of January 1, 1996. Anytime a copyright expires, it is added to the public domain and anyone can use it anyway they like without paying a cent in royalties. But are all these just worthless old information? Let's explore ways you can tap into and profit from the vast resources of the public domain. It starts in the mind First things first. You need to KNOW what your public domain file is about. That's right. READ IT ! This may sound elementary but many people overlook and underestimate the importance of this. Spend some time reading it. Get an understanding of the contents. If you don't have the time, at least, scan through the material and look out for the main points. Why is this important? A good understanding of the contents of the file. will help you make the best use of the product. (Not to mention, it puts you ahead of others who also download the product but do nothing with it.) Studies have shown that less than 5% would actually take action. So don't worry if you think that since anyone can download the products, you'll have thousands of competitors. You'll probably only have a small minority to compete with. Even then, these lessons will show you how to get ahead of the top bracket. And it all starts with this. When you make an effort to understand the material, you gain knowledge. Sometimes that can be more valuable than anything else. For instance, if you have a public domain file on health matters, and you read something about migraine that has troubled you for years. And the writer suggests some help that works for you and gives you relief from the pain. Once you' ve read the material, THINK of different ways that you can repackage the file. (Don't worry if you're not inspired with any ideas yet. After going through this course, you'll be doing this like a pro.) For me, I find that it helps to think in terms of a website. What do I mean by this? Think of the public domain file as a website (or a book) Browse the public domain file and ask yourself.... If this was a website (or book), what would it's title be? (You wouldn't have any idea unless you have read the public domain file yourself). Yes, I know the the original file probably comes with a title. And yes, you can use that too. (Just like others who will promoting it.) But I always recommend that you change it to something more compelling to attract people's attention. Make the title a benefit-laden statement. Take a look at the title of this page you're reading. "How To Use Your Public Domain Files Intelligently To Make Money". This title tells the reader exactly what he wants to know and gain. It's a little long but it works because everyone wants to be thought of as intelligent and everyone wants to make money and I am addressing them personally by using the word "your' in the title. Another example: Let's say you have just downloaded a file called "Tennis For Beginners." This is a good enough title. One that most people would use. But can you make it better and stand out from the rest? How about something dramatic like, "Learn Tennis In 10 Days". Wow! That's something. You add a 'time frame' statement that tells the reader that he can get what he wants (i.e. learn tennis) fast. I'm not suggesting you make ridiculous statements like "How To Play Tennis Like Federer Even If You've Never Held A Racket." No one's going to buy the hype. (Although you might certainly get some attention!) Browse your local bookstore and just look at the titles on display? Which ones attract you? Learn from the kinds of words they use. And come up with one that you yourself would be interested in if you were the visitor. Put yourself in the visitors shoe. Does this title make me want to read on? Will I find what I am looking for here? If your website title is "Welcome to My HomePage", I think you just lost your visitor. This simple exercise helps you visualize and THINK how best to package your public domain file. And I am not just talking about creating a website as we shall see in part 2 of this article.