Chapter 1: The Importance of a Strong Title

Crafting a captivating title is essential for enhancing your writing on Medium. While I typically oppose gimmicks, this advice can genuinely elevate your work.

There's no need for shortcuts in your writing; quality content will naturally gain recognition. However, one crucial strategy can dramatically improve your audience reach and income. This isn't a gimmick; it’s a fundamental writing practice that’s frequently overlooked. I admit, I've been guilty of neglecting it myself.

The key is to invest time in developing an exceptional title for your pieces. Not just a decent title, but an outstanding one.

For some reason, many writers tend to treat their titles as an afterthought. After immersing ourselves in the creative process, we often rush to publish, slapping on any title that comes to mind. This approach is misguided. Here’s an insight:

Initially, your title represents the entire story.

Indeed, before readers engage with your content, the title encapsulates the whole narrative. Those six or ten words define the essence of the story prior to reading.

If the title serves as a microcosm of the story, it’s clear that it must be remarkable.

To help you create a compelling title, consider these two techniques:

1. Explore the Deeper Themes: Rather than focusing solely on the surface elements of your narrative, delve into the underlying themes. It’s tempting to name your title based on the obvious aspects, but true depth lies beneath.

For instance, a tale highlighting the therapeutic effects of wandering through the woods might tempt you to include "woods" or "walk" in the title. But should it? Isn’t the narrative about something more profound?

Emphasize the deeper implications.

2. Steer Clear of Clichés: It may seem ironic for a writer to advise against clichés, but it’s a crucial point. A title serves as a summary, and when summarizing, we often default to well-worn phrases. We must consciously fight against this inclination.

For example, a story about walking in the woods might lead to a cliché title like "Take A Walk On The Wild Side." Avoid this trap! Don’t undermine your story by pairing it with a lackluster title.

Take the time to reflect on your title. Go for a stroll, enjoy a coffee, and revisit your story. The core of your narrative might not be as straightforward as it seems at first glance. Allow yourself the space to unravel the true essence of your story and develop a title that embodies that meaning.

The first video, "Can you make money on Medium? I wrote 15 articles in 30 days. Here's what happened," explores how effective writing can directly impact your earnings on Medium. This insightful video dives into practical strategies and personal experiences that illuminate the potential for success on the platform.

The second video, "How to Make Money Writing on Medium.com (Complete Guide) - YouTube," offers a comprehensive overview of methods to monetize your writing on Medium. It details actionable tips and best practices for aspiring writers looking to turn their passion into profit.