How to (Ethically) Steal From the Best Writers You Already Love

Summary

The article discusses a method for writers to improve their craft by creating a "Click Folder" to collect and analyze articles with compelling headlines and content, even if the latter needs improvement.

Abstract

The technique of using a "Click Folder" is presented as a strategic approach to enhance one's writing skills. This involves saving articles that catch your attention and later reviewing them to understand what made them stand out. The method emphasizes the importance of reading extensively on Medium for those who wish to succeed on the platform. By dissecting the elements of successful articles, noting down weaknesses in others, and tracking popular authors and tags, writers can develop a keen sense of effective writing strategies and generate new article ideas. The article also suggests that this practice can serve as a valuable resource when a writer is struggling with the drafting process.

Opinions

The author believes that reading is crucial for writing success on Medium.
It is suggested that a systematic approach to reading, such as maintaining a Click Folder, can significantly improve a writer's efficiency and output.
The author values the learning opportunity provided by articles that are less than perfect, categorizing them as "Could Be Better" (CBB) and using them as inspiration for improvement.
The author emphasizes the importance of noting successful headlines as they can serve as templates for future writing.
By tracking successful authors and publications, the author implies that one can stay informed about current trends and standards within their writing niche.
The author considers the Click Folder method a secret weapon for generating free article ideas and overcoming writer's block during the drafting process.

The Click Folder

A click folder is a collection of articles that made you click on them. It’s that simple.

Stories live in the Reading List and get moved to Click Folder after I review them.

Did an article make you click on it? Add it to a click folder list.

Here are my click folder notes

To maximize my understanding, I handwrite my notes and add them to a notion spreadsheet several days later.

My Secret Weapon

Sometimes, an article has a great headline… and everything else sucks.

With these articles, they get designated CBB — Could Be Better.

Keep note when you find an article that has a great idea but could be better. Why do you think it’s weak? What would you do differently? If you know what would turn an okay article into a great article, that’s a free article idea.

Become a Better Writer

How to (Ethically) Steal From the Best Writers You Already Love

Read like a writer, steal like an artist.

The Click Folder

My Secret Weapon

How a Click Folder is Helpful

Last Year, I Made $4,000 on Medium. This Year, I Want to Show You How

It’s much easier than you’d think.