Section 1.1: Crafting Compelling Headlines

One of my significant errors was creating lackluster headlines that failed to entice readers. A captivating headline should not only convey the essence of the article but also spark curiosity. For instance, take the headline:

"Does Your Social Media Persona Reflect the Real You?" | by Jenny Lim | MIDFORM | Jun 2022 | Medium

A well-constructed headline is crucial for attracting an audience.

Section 1.2: Understanding Subtitles

Initially, I misunderstood the role of subtitles, assuming they were merely snippets for search engine results. My subtitles were often overly lengthy, where concise and engaging wording would better serve to captivate readers. Short and impactful subtitles are key to grabbing attention.

Subsection 1.2.1: The Importance of Paragraph Structure

Photo by Michal Matlon on Unsplash

Another frequent mistake was my tendency to write excessively long paragraphs, particularly at the beginning of my articles. This habit could deter readers, especially those using mobile devices. Keeping paragraphs to a maximum of four sentences allows for a more digestible reading experience.

Section 1.3: Streamlining Writing

I also noticed that my writing was cluttered with unnecessary instances of the word "that." As Ali Mese aptly points out, excess "that's" can weigh down sentences. By eliminating these superfluous words, my writing became clearer and easier to navigate.

Section 2.1: The Importance of Proper Tagging

I was also unaware of the significance of effectively tagging my articles. I often neglected to use all five available tags, failing to recognize that using tags from top writer categories can enhance visibility. To maximize reach, always utilize all five tags in your pieces.

Section 2.2: Navigating Copyright and Licensing

Lastly, I learned the hard way about the importance of copyright and licensing when selecting images for my articles. I once found a photo of book pages online and assumed it was permissible to use it in a review. However, I chose to forgo the image because I couldn't confidently assert that I had the rights to do so. To avoid potential issues, always select images that are verified for free use, like those found on Unsplash.

While it can be embarrassing to stumble in front of others, it's an essential part of growth. Making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, especially when you're just starting, and not too many people are observing your journey.