How To Write a Medium Article That Gets Read (And Shared!)

So, you want to write for Medium? Fantastic! It’s a platform brimming with opportunities to connect with readers, build your audience, and even earn some money. But crafting a successful Medium article isn’t just about hitting “publish.” It requires strategy, skill, and a dash of creativity. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from brainstorming ideas to optimizing for readership.

1. Finding Your Perfect Medium Article Idea

Before you even open a blank document, you need a compelling idea. Don’t just write about anything; write about something you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. Think about your unique perspective and what you can offer readers that’s different.

Brainstorming Techniques for Medium Articles

  • Leverage your expertise: What are you truly good at? What unique skills or knowledge do you possess?
  • Identify reader needs: What problems are your target audience facing? What questions are they asking?
  • Analyze trending topics: Use Medium’s search function and explore trending topics in your niche. What’s currently resonating with readers?
  • Repurpose existing content: Do you have blog posts, presentations, or other content that could be adapted for a Medium audience?

2. Crafting a Compelling Headline for Your Medium Article

Your headline is your first (and possibly only) impression. It needs to grab attention and accurately reflect the content of your article. A strong headline is crucial for driving clicks and increasing readership.

Headline Writing Best Practices

  • Use strong verbs: Instead of “Tips for Writing,” try “Master These Writing Tips.”
  • Highlight benefits: Focus on what the reader will gain from reading your article.
  • Keep it concise: Aim for a headline that’s clear, concise, and easy to understand.
  • Test different headlines: A/B testing can help you determine which headlines perform best.

3. Structuring Your Medium Article for Readability

A well-structured article is easy to read and digest. Use headings, subheadings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to break up large chunks of text. Think about the reader’s experience and make it as smooth as possible.

Optimizing for Readability

  • Use short paragraphs: Aim for paragraphs of 3-4 sentences.
  • Incorporate visuals: Images, videos, and GIFs can break up text and improve engagement.
  • Use bullet points and lists: These make information easier to scan and digest.
  • Write in a conversational tone: Avoid overly formal language.

4. Mastering the Art of Engaging Storytelling on Medium

While information is crucial, engaging storytelling is what truly connects with readers. Weave a narrative that draws them in and keeps them wanting more. Don’t just present facts; tell a story.

Techniques for Engaging Storytelling

  • Start with a hook: Grab the reader’s attention from the very first sentence.
  • Use strong verbs and vivid language: Paint a picture with your words.
  • Show, don’t tell: Use descriptive language to create a sensory experience for the reader.
  • Include personal anecdotes: Sharing personal experiences can create a connection with your audience.

5. Optimizing Your Medium Article for SEO

While Medium isn’t a traditional SEO platform like Google, optimization still matters. Focus on creating high-quality content that naturally incorporates relevant keywords.

SEO Best Practices for Medium

  • Use relevant keywords in your title and throughout your article.
  • Use internal and external links where appropriate.
  • Choose relevant tags to help categorize your article.
  • Promote your article on social media.

6. Proofreading and Editing Your Medium Article

Before hitting “publish,” meticulously proofread and edit your article. Errors in grammar and spelling can damage your credibility. Take your time and ensure your article is polished and professional.

Essential Editing Steps

  • Check for grammar and spelling errors.
  • Ensure consistency in style and tone.
  • Read your article aloud to catch awkward phrasing.
  • Get feedback from others.

7. Choosing the Right Publication on Medium

Submitting your article to a relevant publication can significantly expand your reach. Research publications in your niche and tailor your article to their guidelines.

Finding the Perfect Medium Publication

  • Browse publications relevant to your niche.
  • Read their submission guidelines carefully.
  • Ensure your article aligns with their editorial style.

8. Promoting Your Medium Article

Publishing your article isn’t the end; it’s the beginning. Promote your article on social media, email, and other channels to drive traffic and engagement. Active promotion is key to maximizing your article’s reach.

Effective Promotion Strategies

  • Share on social media platforms.
  • Promote via email newsletters.
  • Engage with comments and responses.

9. Analyzing Your Medium Article’s Performance

Once your article is live, monitor its performance using Medium’s analytics. Pay attention to metrics like reads, claps, and shares to understand what’s working and what’s not.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Track

  • Reads: How many people are reading your article?
  • Claps: How many people are showing their appreciation?
  • Shares: How many people are sharing your article?
  • Comments: What are people saying about your article?

10. Iterating and Improving Your Medium Writing

Writing for Medium is an iterative process. Learn from your successes and failures, and continuously refine your approach. Embrace feedback, experiment with different styles, and never stop learning.

Conclusion: Writing a successful Medium article involves a multifaceted approach encompassing compelling ideas, strategic structuring, engaging storytelling, and effective promotion. By following these steps and consistently refining your approach, you can significantly increase your chances of crafting articles that resonate with readers and achieve your desired goals on the platform.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How long should a Medium article be? There’s no magic number, but aim for at least 500 words to provide sufficient depth and value. Longer articles can perform well, but prioritize quality over length.

  • What are the best times to publish on Medium? Experiment to find what works for your audience. However, weekdays generally see higher traffic than weekends.

  • How can I get more claps on my Medium articles? Focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that genuinely helps your readers. Also, promote your article actively on social media and other channels.

  • Can I make money writing on Medium? Yes, you can earn money through Medium’s Partner Program by monetizing your articles. This requires meeting certain eligibility criteria.

  • What if my article isn’t performing well? Don’t get discouraged! Analyze your article’s performance, identify areas for improvement, and try again. Learning from your mistakes is crucial for growth.