What Is Wrong With the Takeaways?

Don’t always include them. Let your readers think.

I’ve seen many publications on Medium make it like a rule. You include ‘Takeaways’ written at the end of your writings, or fear the risk of rejection.

Why? I don’t understand.

Maybe they think their readers are too stupid to figure out what to take and what not — from a written piece, or they are just busy-readers. Many of them believe, as writers, we must mention a few key takeaways to benefit the readers. Whatever the reasons are, I’m not convinced because I value my readers.

I consider them (all readers on all platforms) smart enough to figure out their own takeaways from any written piece — be it personal stories, health advice, self-development thoughts, mental health articles, relationship tips, or anything else.

I refuse to believe that online readers are stupid. I think they have grey matter in their brains, and I allow them to use it while reading.

Readers aren’t stupid

To me, readers are not morons. But if they are, they are not my readers. I don’t treat them as babies that I should offer some at the end to swallow with comfort.

Yes, I do sometimes include written takeaways in my writings if it is a long, intricate one, and it helps readers to get a compact idea in the end. But I believe takeaways may limit the scope for readers’ imagination.

I believe that when you offer the essence of your writing at the end, you ruin the experience for the readers. And if you do that, the readers will be reluctant to give it a second read.

Takeaways may limit readers’ imagination

Consider, you are writing a story about your recent travel experience. What is the priority here?

Of course, the story itself. The way you represent it and keep the reader engaged in it — are the most important things. You care for your diction, sentence structures, and the emotions to make it a better one. You don’t need to worry about a written takeaway.

In many articles, I have seen takeaways so long you could make them a separate post. I don’t see the point. This unnecessary repetition is ridiculous. When you avoid this, you allow your readers to think about the article deeply. You encourage them to rediscover the treasures you kept hidden in between the lines. Maybe they will read it again if they find it interesting and meaningful.

Remember, writing the takeaways at the end of every piece is like following a pattern. And when you are following the same pattern, again and again, you are not growing as a writer. Most importantly, you are not allowing your readers to discover you.

Think about the books you have read. Do they have takeaways written in the end? Of course, not. That’s why different readers find varied experiences in reading them. They feel connected while enjoying the book.

Don’t make two-minute instant noodles for your readers. Allow your readers to discover you.

When to include ‘The Takeaways’?

Use your common sense and ask yourself a few simple questions. Does your story make sense? Will your reader enjoy reading it? If the answer is yes, then your writing is okay without any written takeaways.

If there is too much information that may confuse the reader, then you may write the takeaways at the end to help the readers get the key message.

In that case, make it simple and precise. Don’t always make your takeaways a listicle. I am telling you again. Use your common sense putting on the reader’s shoes.

Final Thoughts

Make your takeaways precise and short. Don’t make them too long and confuse the readers with ‘do this’ and ‘do that’ suggestions. Don’t confine yourself to a made-up pattern. Allow diversity to play in your writings.

Keep up the great work!

If you are interested to know how a little madness can change a writer’s life, you may find the following article useful.