Most People Think Listicles Help Readers Remember Your Content

That’s not true.

Photo by Brian Wangenheim on Unsplash

Many writers make the mistake of just writing articles.

• They pack in all the insights.
• They write a catchy headline.
• They apply every writing tip they’ve learned.

They believe that just writing is enough to set them apart.

I used to think the same, which is why I know it doesn’t work at all.

Most people think listicles help readers remember your content.

That’s not true.

Can you recall all the Ten Commandments?

I can’t.

And don’t worry, only 14% of Americans can accurately name them all.

But I still remember what Moses did — parting the Red Sea.

Why can I remember Moses but not the Ten Commandments?

What’s the difference?

Stories are one of the most powerful tools in storytelling.

The Ten Commandments = 100% information.

Moses parting the Red Sea = 100% story.

When you only share information, you bore readers.