The internet is full of listicles. From “10 Ways to Be a Better Person” to “5 Tips for a Successful Job Interview”, these articles promise quick and easy solutions to our everyday problems. But how do you write a listicle that is really accurate and helpful? Here are a few unspoken tips:
Make a list of the topics you want to cover.
When you sit down to write a listicle, you first need to come up with a list of potential topics. It can be anything you think would make for a good, informative article. Write down as many ideas as possible, then narrow them down to the best and most essential subjects.
Organize your list into an easily digestible format.
Once you have your essential topics, it’s time to start organizing them into an easy-to-read format. Your goal should be to make your article as easily readable and navigable as possible. An excellent way to do this is to put your items in bullet form and use clear, concise language.
Write a catchy headline that accurately reflects the content of your list.
Your headline is one of the most critical aspects of your article. It’s what will first catch the reader’s attention and persuade them to click through to read more. Make sure your headline is accurate, fantastic, and reflective of the content of your article.
Introduce your list in a way that will engage your reader.
The introduction to your article is crucial in hooking the reader’s attention and getting them to stick around long enough to read through your whole list. Start with a bang and give them a reason to keep reading. Use robust and punchy language, and introduce the topics you’ll be covering interestingly. We also highly encourage you to spruce up your listicles with visuals.
Consider using designed images or infographics. As an example, a label creator will help you break up your text and do the job. Not only will multimedia elements make your paper more visually attractive, but they will also help your readers retain information better. Make sure that any visual you use is relevant and adds value to your article.
Get straight to the point with each item on your list.
Once you’re in the body of your article, getting straight to the point with each item on your list is essential. Your readers will appreciate your brevity and will be more likely to stick with you until the end. Be straightforward in your writing, and get directly to the information your readers are looking for.
Use strong verbs and an active voice to keep your writing punchy.
Your listicle should be easy to read, using strong verbs and an active voice. Avoid jargon and long, complicated sentences. Instead, use simple language and short, striking sentences. It will help keep your readers engaged and make a more enjoyable reading experience.
Conclude your list with a summary or call to action.
Once you’ve covered all the essential topics on your list, it’s time to wrap things up. Summarize the main points of your article and include any final thoughts or call to action. It is your last chance to make an impression on your reader, so make it count.
Proofread your article for any errors or typos.
Before you hit publish, it’s imperative to proofread your article for any errors or typos. It will help ensure that your writing is error-free and more professional. Take your time and read your article slowly, checking for any mistakes.
Some more quick tips for you
Besides the mentioned, here are more minor recommendations to make your list posts readable and highly engaging:
- Try to avoid numbered lists: Numbered lists may show that your post is organized and includes well-thought-out ideas. In reality, however, it only muddies the water, as the post’s primary purpose is to solve the problem no matter the number of steps you need. No, it’s not to say that numbered lists are bad or ineffective. Just try to focus on finding a solution paying no attention to digits. Of course, you can re-organize your post and add some numbered lists; ensure it doesn’t take the more significant part of your content.
- Make your text scannable: The fewer letters, the better – that’s the golden rule of any list post. Regardless of your subject matter, you must strive to make your post easily readable and scannable. That is, if it’s genuinely exciting, people will be fascinated by your text. But for a better effect, it’s crucial to compress it, so the readers don’t do multiple exhales when screening your text.
- Add a bit of a push to your text: It’s always a good idea to include a pinch of promotion in a list post. Ponder the post’s parts where you can add extra motivation for readers to do some action, e.g., read related articles, subscribe to the newsletter, etc. Doing that will also multiply your audience.
Wrapping up
Listicles are doable, really. It’s just a practical approach that matters. By following these tips, you can create a helpful and informative list post that will engage and delight your readers. So what are you waiting for? Get writing!
