Listicles are popular ways to share information in the digital age.It's possible to present ideas in a variety of ways, whether you're writing a lighthearted post or an information-packed news article.Pick the best format and narrow your topic to write a good listicle.The body of your listicle can be drafted using popular strategies.
Step 1: Choose a topic that interests you.
Depending on your preferences, your topic can be lighthearted or serious.You can start with a broad topic and cut it down to a unique idea.Make a list of your interests, or make a mind map, to get your idea juices flowing.Pick a topic that you've always wanted to write about.Pick a topic that fits with their typical content, but hasn't been done yet, if you're writing for publication.As long as you bring a unique perspective, it's okay to play around with a popular topic.
Step 2: To read other writers' perspectives, do an internet search on your topic.
This will help you create your own perspective on the topic, rather than recreating content that's already been published.Check out popular news, lifestyle, culture, arts, and entertainment sites.A simple Internet search is also possible.Search their site if you have a specific publication in mind.You might check out sites like Tiny Buddha, HelloGiggles, and Cracked.
Step 3: Do you have a unique perspective on the topic?
Tell us what brought you to this topic.You might have experience with that.To figure out your unique approach to this topic, use your reason.How do my prior experiences relate to this topic?What have I learned?Why do I want to know about this topic?What do you want to learn about this topic?My cultural background, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or other personal identity affect my relationship to this topic.
Step 4: The title should tell the reader exactly what to expect.
Listicles do not have titles that make the reader wonder what's inside.Don't try to be clever, clearly convey the contents of your article.It's a good idea to avoid using a title that sounds like click-bait.On the other hand, a title like "You Won't Believe These 5 Things I Learned From Karaoke" sounds like click-bait.
Step 5: If necessary, conduct research.
If you're writing from your own experience, you don't need research.Good support for your explanatory text and better points to back up your ideas can be found in research.You can either include a link in your listicle or cite it in the text.
Step 6: Keep your main points short.
The meat of your listicle is what readers should take away from it.This process might be easy if your points are based on personal experience or facts.It might take more thought to come up with a long listicle.Try to find things that are unique.Readers should be surprised with a few things they didn't know before reading your article.A lengthy list of possible entries might be created if you're creating a long listicle.Don't worry if they fit the topic perfectly.Let's say you're writing a listicle called "9 reasons my cat is smarter than I am." You should start with the following points: 1) She is cautious around new people, 2) She gets me to clean her poop, and 3) She stole my food.
Step 7: An introduction to the topic is needed.
Your perspective as well as your topic should be introduced to the reader.Your introduction should show the reader why you chose this topic, as well as how your list will differ from others they have read on it.If you need more paragraphs to set up your listicle, your introduction can be as short as 1 paragraph.This is determined by your purpose.Living with a cat isn't always easy.My cat is in control of our household because she is a messy roommate.It might seem like a bad idea to have a cat be the boss, but my cat is smarter than I am.Do you not believe me?Here are 9 reasons why.
Step 8: Write your points down.
Keep your points short and easy to read.Provide the reader with enough information to understand what you're trying to say, but don't tell them everything.They should read the rest of your article, not just the numbered or bolded points.You could write this point for the article "9 reasons my cat is smarter than I am".She's careful around new people until she gets to know them.
Step 9: If it's applicable, flesh out your points.
Some explanation for each of the points is offered by most listicles.This can range from a few sentences to several paragraphs.When choosing how much extra information to include, consider the purpose of your listicle and your format.Keep your information concise since listicles get to the point.If you want, you can include just your points."Wherever new people come over, my cat always darts under the furniture and stays there until she knows they're nice," you could write.I am too trusting.I lost money, credit for an assignment, and my favorite jacket because I trusted the wrong person too soon.
Step 10: If you have to, organize your points.
You don't need to organize the points if the listicles are in any order.Sometimes it is necessary to create order.A news article might be put in chronological order.If your points are presented in a certain order, your reader will better understand them.If that is the case, organize your points.If you have to organize your points, put them in chronological order.You could order your points according to importance.It's likely that people will think of the litter box point, so you might decide to put it last.People keep reading if you put your most creative points first.
Step 11: You can add images to illustrate each entry.
Images can be found inicles, such as photos or GIFs.Images that relate to your points are what you should choose.You should use images and GIFs that you have permission to use, such as those available through Creative Commons.You can either use a photo to depict the point you're making, or include a Gif to show an emotional reaction to that point.For "9 Reasons My Cat is Smarter Than I Am," you could include some cats.You could use a cat running under furniture as an example of trusting people.
Step 12: The conclusion should be included.
When it comes to writing listicles,Conclusions are often overlooked.The reader will leave with a lasting impression if you summarize your ideas after your points.As a cat mom, I've learned so much from watching my feline friend.She clearly has the upperhand in this household.I might be as smart as my cat one day if I pay attention.
Step 13: Pick a format that fits your purpose.
Listicles have a reputation for being click-bait, but this is often not the case.Listicles can be used to inform the reader about important topics.Writers are allowed to entertain readers because of their flexibility.The list can be presented in paragraphs or a collection of points.You can number your list, use bullet points, or bold your points.
Step 14: Text and points can be used to relate a personal experience.
Some listicles look at an incident in your past and how it can help others.A series of points followed by text might be included in the opening paragraphs.In some cases, you could turn a personal essay into a listicle.5 things I learned while grieving.
Step 15: When talking to a group, make your points the focus.
You can relate to other people who have had similar experiences.Common experiences shared by students, Texans, cancer survivors, nurses, and others are included in these lists.You should emphasize your points when creating this type of listicle.You want your reader to connect the dots based on their experience.Anxious people know 10 things.
Step 16: When presenting ideas about society, keep it simple.
You could use your listicle to learn more about cultural topics.You might give a short explanation for each point, but you won't go into great detail.Provide several points along with a few paragraphs of information.The 12 ways urbanites differ from country folk is an example.
Step 17: Provide research in a format that is easy to understand.
It's not always true that listicles that present research or reporting contain more meat.A lot of important information can be summarized in a listicle.They can make complicated topics easier to understand.Think of your listicle as an outline.The main ideas of your listicle should be the ones supported by text or bullets.There are 7 things you need to know before election day.
Step 18: Each entry should be skimmable.
Your points should be clear.Paragraphs should be 3-6 sentences if you write text to support your points.Bullet points can be used in the accompanying text to make the material easy to skim.You can use bullet points to summarize your text.You could give suggestions in bullets to make it easier to read.
Step 19: Don't let your writing get out of hand.
If you have to say something, use as little words as possible.Readers like listicles because they are easy to digest, so they don't expect a lot of extra fluff.Some points may have more explanation than others.Don't feel pressured to write more than you need to in order to get the point across.
Step 20: Limit your listicle to a manageable number of entries.
How many entries you should include depends on the purpose of your listicle, how much text you plan to write for each entry, and how you'll include images.It depends on the format you choose.A listicle consisting of stand alone words or sentences could include many more.An advice listicle has fewer entries so it's useful for the reader.A list of fun factoids can be long without losing the reader's interest.
Step 21: A listicle is a way to connect with more people.
Readers are drawn to listicles because they promise a quick and easy read.Sometimes writers use a listicle to look at a serious issue.3-7 bolded points, followed by 1-2 paragraphs of text are what you'll want to present your ideas with.This could be an exploration of the politics of animal rights, as well as how cheese is made.The writer can easily explore the topic.
Step 22: Readers can be entertained with a lot of little factoids.
Listicles are a great way to give readers a lot of information about your topic.These lists are often fun and meant for entertainment.You won't be giving an explanation.List your points.You could write about why cats rule.
Step 23: When you submit for publication, follow the formatting requirements.
Listicles are popular on the Internet, but their format can vary.Some sites prefer more writing, while others prefer a lot of images.Your file and images will need to be compatible with the site's software.The website you want to pitch your article to will usually have the formatting requirements.You can search on the Internet if you don't see what you're looking for.You can send an email to the editor.