5 Common Things Medium Writers Do that Let Readers Know They Don’t Really Care

It’s hard for me to clap when I observe any of these 5 things

As a writer, reader, and Medium community member, every time I open an article I want to clap. I want to pound that clap button with joy and spread the virtual love that I hope to receive back in kind.

But, when I notice any of these five things, it’s hard for me to clap sincerely. These little observations let me know you aren’t really trying your absolute best. You’re certainly not paying attention to detail the way that I expect myself to when it comes to something that lives forever with my name on it.

I want to virtually clap so bad. Photo by Guillermo Latorre on Unsplash.

Basically, you’re not honoring the silent contract between writer and reader: I’ll do my absolute best to make this publication as good as it can be if you take the time to read it.

There is a lot of advice on Medium about the craft of writing, some of which I have contributed. This post contains my thoughts on what not to do as a Medium contributor. My “the least you can do as a writer” list.

If you can avoid these five things, even if the writing isn’t sparkling with magic, even if the subject is boring or lacks originality, I’ll at least assume that you tried. You’ll at least be honoring the contract in…