Listicle Blog Posts
Welcome to this ‘how to write a listicle post’ article – here is my ten-step process in creating a great looking listicle post for your readers to enjoy!
Step 1 – Choose a Topic: Select a topic that you’re passionate about or that you think will interest your target audience. It’s important to choose a subject that can be broken down into a list format – Decide how many items you want to include in your list.
For example, “10 Must-Try Recipes for Summer,” “7 Tips for Effective Time Management,” or “Top 5 Destinations for Adventure Travel.”
For this example my niche is going to be TRAVEL and I will choose to do a listicle post on ‘Top 10 travel bags for solo travellers”
Step 2 – Outline Your List: Before you start writing, create an outline for your listicle and briefly jot down the main points or ideas you want to cover for each item. This will help you maintain a clear structure and ensure you don’t miss any important points.
You might start with a little summary like:
“I am going to compare 10 travel bags and talk about their style, functionality, and price points.”
Then make a little list of other things you may want to include:
- The Make
- The Price
- The Material
- The Weight when completley full
- How many compartments
This is a brainstorming session so get everything you can out of your head and onto the notepad.
Step 3 – Craft an Attention-Grabbing Title: Your title is the first thing readers will see, so make it catchy and intriguing. It should clearly communicate what your listicle is about and entice readers to click and read further. Consider using numbers, power words, and a promise of value to make your title more compelling.
Let’s say we are writing a ‘Top 10 travel bags for solo travellers” style blog post – although this title is exactly what the post is about it isn’t very compelling.
So, what you want to do is make it more (dare I say it….) Clickbaity….
Now the important thing here is not to go over board – the idea is you want people to read your blog and not be put off from an obviously mis-leading title – using the example above I would go for something like:
“Pack Like a Pro: 10 Must-Have Travel Bags for Solo Explorers – #7 Will Blow Your Mind!”
It’s way more engaging than the original title, it’s still true and believable and I really want to know what tip #7 is – so I am more inclined to read the post.
Step 4 –Introduction: In the introduction, provide a brief overview of what your listicle will cover. Hook your readers by highlighting the benefits or solutions they will gain from reading your article. Keep it concise but engaging to encourage readers to continue reading.
For example: if you were writing the listicle “Pack Like a Pro: 10 Must-Have Travel Bags for Solo Explorers – #7 Will Blow Your Mind!” your introduction could be something like –
“Embarking on a journey, be it a grand adventure or a short getaway, is always an exhilarating experience. Yet, amidst the thrill of exploring new horizons, one thing remains quintessential for every traveler – a reliable travel bag. Whether you’re a globetrotter or an occasional wanderer, the significance of a good travel bag cannot be underestimated. It is the unsung hero that transforms your travel escapades into seamless voyages.
Join us as we unravel the secrets to finding that perfect travel companion – a travel bag that strikes the ideal balance between spaciousness, lightweight portability, and unwavering durability. Let’s delve into the world of travel must-haves and discover the key to unlocking a truly unforgettable adventure.”
Step 5 – Dive into the Listicle: For each item on your list, follow a consistent structure. Start with a subheading or a bold statement that introduces the item. Then, provide a paragraph or two elaborating on the topic, explaining why it’s important or interesting. You can include examples, statistics, or personal anecdotes to support your points. If applicable, consider adding images or visuals to enhance the reader’s experience.
Refer to your earlier brainstroming session and create a well-structured piece of content.
Here I would list out my top 10 travel bags include the make and the price then do a pros and cons list for each bag – ending each section with a conclusion, you could also do a star rating or some sort of score at the bottom.
Step 6 – Use Bullet Points or Numbered Lists: To maintain the list format and make it easy for readers to follow, use bullet points or numbered lists for each item. This breaks up the text and makes it visually appealing. It also helps readers scan the content quickly and find the information they’re most interested in – like finding #7!
Step 7 – Include Engaging Subheadings: Use subheadings throughout your listicle to separate each item and make it easier to navigate. Subheadings should be descriptive and capture the essence of each section. They also provide readers with a clear overview of what they can expect to find in each part of the article.
Refer to your earlier brainstroming session and create a well-structured piece of content.
Step 8 – Wrap Up with a Conclusion: End the whole post with an overall conclusion, summarize the main points covered in your listicle. You can also add a call to action, encouraging readers to take a specific next step, such as trying out a tip or sharing their thoughts in the comments section.
Step 9 – Proofread and Edit: Once you’ve finished writing your listicle, take the time to proofread and edit it. Check for grammar and spelling errors, ensure your sentences flow smoothly, and confirm that your list is comprehensive and well-structured. Reading the article aloud can also help you identify any awkward phrasing or unclear sections.
Step 10 – Add Visuals and Formatting: Make your listicle visually appealing by incorporating relevant images, videos, or infographics. Visual content can enhance the reader’s experience and make your blog post more shareable on social media. Additionally, use formatting techniques such as bolding, italicizing, or underlining to highlight key points or make your article scannable.
Conclusion.
Remember, practice makes perfect. As you gain more experience, you’ll become more comfortable and proficient in writing listicle-style blog posts. Good luck!