Lists Rule (the online world)!
We are launching the Beta release of List Central today. The morning has been filled with nerves and adrenaline (not to mention a ton of coffee). So as we scramble to get the last details in order, it seems appropriate to write a post to remind ourselves why we love lists.
The love of lists is obvious in the online world. The most interesting blog posts come in the form of a list. Amazon has listmania, and even Twitter is getting in on the list game.
So what is it about lists that grabs our attention? How can there be so much love for something so simple?
The only way to explain the list-love phenomenon is with – well – a great list! So here it is:
1. Clear and Concise
It’s really tough to read through a 1500 word, rambling article online. The best written content on the web is presented in small, easy to read bits. A good post is usually clear and to the point.
This is what makes lists ideal for the web. Lists break down complex theories or ideas into small, descriptive points.
2. Easy to read
Have you ever tried to read a big paragraph online? Even the most interesting post can lose a reader’s attention if it’s buried in a lot of text.
Lists are broken down into aesthetically pleasing tidbits. They break through all the clutter of an essay-style post and present information in a simple, comprehensive way.
3. Organized
A good list organizes ideas so that your message is easier to understand. As a writer, it also forces you to leave out anything unnecessary and get straight to the point.
4. Scannable
You can’t read an article by starting at the end and working your way to the beginning. But with a list, you can start at the end and work your way back, or go right to the middle.
Being able to scan a list is what makes it engaging. You know it’s possible to pick out the exact piece of information you’re looking for, without having to commit to reading everything.
This makes a good list like a buffet of information – you pick and choose only the tastiest morsels that are relevant to you.
5. Insight
There’s something special about sharing lists online. It’s not like writing a grocery list and handing it to your roommate.
Sharing lists online creates a community of like-minded individuals. It unifies people based on similar interests, opinions or values.
A top ten list of history’s best sports teams, is likely to attract a completely different group of people than, say, a top ten list of fashion trends.
A list also gives you insight into the personality of the list builder. By reading someone’s list, you can get a sense of who they are and what they value.
6. Fun
We love lists because they’re fun! Lists are a creative from of self-expression. There are no rules, no limitations and definitely no lack of ideas. And that’s what makes them so fun.
The possibilities are endless.
This is why we love lists and why we’re dedicated to building an online community for list-lovers everywhere.
Do you love lists?
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