Don’t Waste Your Great Ideas on a Listicle

Summary

The author suggests that writers should not squander substantial ideas in listicles but instead develop each idea into a detailed post, potentially creating listicles from individual articles later on.

Abstract

The article "Don’t Waste Your Great Ideas on a Listicle" emphasizes the importance of not diluting strong ideas by including them in listicles. The author, who observes writers' struggles with ideation, questions the common practice of using several good ideas in a single listicle. Instead, the author advocates for expanding each idea into its own comprehensive article, arguing that detailed exploration of a single point can be more impactful than a list of less developed ideas. The article suggests that whether a writer chooses to specialize in a niche or cover a broader range of topics, the ability to elaborate on ideas is crucial for maximizing their potential and providing readers with meaningful content. Furthermore, the author proposes a balanced approach where listicles can link to more in-depth discussions of each point, thereby enhancing the reader's experience and introducing them to a wider range of the writer's work.

Opinions

The author expresses surprise at the frequency with which writers use up multiple great ideas in listicles.
Listicles are seen as organized and enjoyable to read, but they may not be the best format for presenting substantial ideas.
Each point within a listicle has the potential to be developed into a full-fledged post.
The author values depth over breadth, suggesting that a well-explained single point can be more powerful than a multitude of minor points.
The article encourages writers to flesh out their ideas with context, examples, anecdotes, logic, and reasoning.
The author believes that it's in the details where meaning is often found.
A balanced writing strategy is endorsed, where writers can create listicles and later expand each point into individual articles, or vice versa.
Linking individual articles to listicles is recommended for reader engagement and to showcase a writer's breadth of content.

One big idea does way more than lots of tiny ones

Writers often hit a wall in terms of ideation. It’s a classic case of “writer’s block.” They don’t know what to write about next. You’ve probably experienced it yourself.

Sometimes writers vent their struggles on Twitter. And, I am surprised to see so many of their posts are listicles! Don’t get me wrong. I have nothing against listicles. I like them. Really, I do. They’re organised, to the point, and usually fun to read.

But I am confused.

If someone is struggling to come up with ideas for a post, I don’t understand why they would use up 7–10 great ideas for a single article. Maybe their rationale is that listicles reach more readers, or perhaps they find it easier to go wider rather than deeper when discussing topics.

As a reader, I want the details — the nittier and grittier, the better.

Each point in a listicle can often be its own post. If it’s a good idea, it should be.

Why dilute your point by mixing it with others that could very well stand on their own?

The impact of one good point can counter a thousand insignificant ones. So, learn to take your time and really flesh out an idea. You can add some context, concrete examples, hypothetical situations, anecdotes from real life, logic, reasoning, or anything else that could explain what you mean in more detail.

Writers often wonder if they should niche down or cast their nets wider. No matter which direction you decide to go in, learning to expand on your ideas will serve you greatly. It allows you to get the most out of an idea.

Often, it’s in the details that we find meaning.

Am I saying you should avoid writing listicles?

No, I’m saying it’s possible to write both types of articles. You can write listicles and expand points into individual posts later. Or you could write individual articles and package them up into listicles.

Make sure you link them together. It’s relevant. A reader that enjoyed your listicle is likely to enjoy a more in-depth conversation on each of the points you made. Likewise, the reverse is also true. Someone interested in one point could also love reading about others. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your readers to other pieces you have written that they are likely to enjoy.

If you enjoy this article, you might like this humorous take on what makes a successful listicle.

Don’t Waste Your Great Ideas on a Listicle

One big idea does way more than lots of tiny ones

The 8 Traits of Highly Successful Listicles

#3 Never start with number 1