A Start-From-Zero Blueprint
Chapter 1 – Basics of Medium and how Medium pays writers
What you’re learning in Chapter 1
You’re learning what Medium is, how it pays writers, and what makes an article get seen.
This matters because if you don’t understand how Medium works, you’ll waste time writing the wrong way.
Step 1: Understand what Medium is
Medium is a website where people publish articles and other people read them.
You don’t need to build a blog. You don’t need hosting. You just write and hit publish.
Example:
Medium is like a “cozy coffee shop for writers and readers.”
Why this helps you:
It removes a bunch of tech problems that stop beginners.
Step 2: Know why Medium is easier than running your own blog
On a normal blog, you usually have to:
- set up a website
- worry about SEO
- find traffic from scratch
On Medium, the platform already has a big audience of millions waiting to read your stuff.
Why this helps you:
You’re not starting with zero readers.
Step 3: Join the Medium Partner Program to earn money
Medium pays writers using the Medium Partner Program, which is how many medium writers earn money.
Here’s the simple version:
- People pay Medium a subscription.
- When those paying members read your article, Medium shares some of that money with you.
Medium pays you based on how much time paying members spend reading your content.
Why this helps you:
You get paid for keeping people interested, not for tricking them into clicks.
Step 4: How Medium pays writers based on reading time
Medium doesn’t pay you for ads.
It pays you mostly when people spend time reading.
So your goal is not just “get views.”
Your goal is “keep readers reading.”
Reading time equals dollars.
Why this helps you:
It tells you what to aim for when you write: clear, engaging, easy to read.
Step 5: Learn what the algorithm pays attention to
The Medium algorithm helps decide who sees your article.
It looks at signals like:
- reading time
- claps
- comments
If your article gets good signals, Medium shows it to more people.
“It’s kind of like getting a snowball rolling downhill.”
Why this helps you:
Good early engagement can lead to more readers without you doing tons of promotion.
Step 6: Understand curation (a big boost)
Sometimes Medium’s editorial team “features” articles in topics. That gives huge visibility.
Why this helps you:
It’s extra exposure. But you can’t force it. You can only write well and stay consistent.
Step 7: Hook readers fast (first 10 seconds)
Most people decide very quickly if they will stay or leave.
So your start matters a lot.
Always aim to hook readers in the first 10 seconds.
Why this helps you:
If people leave fast, your reading time drops, and Medium won’t push your article.
Step 8: Use Medium’s “low barrier” to your advantage
Medium is easy to start because:
- no special experience needed
- simple editor tools
- you don’t need a big following
You don’t need 10,000 Twitter (X) followers to get noticed.
Why this helps you:
It means you can start today even if you’re new.
Step 9: Stop believing the common myths
The transcript calls out myths that block people.
Myth 1: “Medium is oversaturated.”
Reality: Lots of writers, but also millions of readers.
Myth 2: “You can’t make real money.”
Reality: They made $2,096.63 from one article.
Myth 3: “It’s just a hobby.”
Reality: It can be a serious income stream.
Why this helps you:
If you believe the myths, you won’t even try.
Step 10: Quick checklist
- Medium = writing platform with built-in readers
- MPP = how you get paid
- Reading time matters most
- Claps + comments help visibility
- Algorithm pushes content that holds attention
- Hook readers in the first 10 seconds
- You don’t need a website or big following
Takeaway
Medium can pay you if you write in a way that keeps people reading, which is the core idea behind how to make money on Medium.
Chapter 2 – Step-by-step blueprint to make money on Medium
This chapter is the “how to.” It shows the exact steps used to turn one article into real money. The point is simple: don’t just write and hope. Write with a plan.
Step 1: Pick Medium stories that readers actually want
A hard truth: some topics do well, and some don’t.
So your first job is topic choice.
How to do it
- Go to Medium’s homepage.
- Look at the top stories in topics you like.
- Notice patterns: what kind of posts keep showing up?
Example:
“Analyze what’s trending… Are they self-improvement? Tech insights? Personal finance?”
Why this matters
If your topic is boring to readers, your writing won’t get traction, which makes money writing much harder.
Step 2: Choose a niche using the “3-circle rule”
A simple rule. Pick something that matches:
- what you know
- what you care about
- what readers want (this is what earns money)
Choose a niche that intersects with what you know, what you’re passionate about, and what readers want to read
Why this matters
It stops you from writing random stuff that nobody searches for or cares about.
Step 3: Write a headline that makes people click
Headlines are most of the battle.
Headline patterns you can use
- Numbers: “7 Lessons I Learned From…”
- Promise value: “How to Double Your Productivity…”
- Curiosity: “The Secret No One Tells You About…”
Why this matters
If nobody clicks, nobody reads. And if nobody reads, you earn nothing.
Step 4: Make the first 3 sentences strong
Your start should make readers think: “ok, i’m staying.”
How to do it
Use one of these:
- ask a question
- say something bold
- start a story right away
Why this matters
Most people leave fast if the opening feels slow or confusing, which hurts writing on Medium.
Step 5: Make the article easy to read
readers don’t like big walls of text.
Do this
- short paragraphs
- simple sentences
- add headers and bullet points
- use bold text for key ideas
Make it easy to read: short paragraphs, use formatting: headers, bullet points, and bolded text.
Why this matters
If it’s hard to read, people quit. If they quit, your results drop.
Step 6: Keep your writing real and clear
Readers hate fluff and like authenticity, especially when writing on Medium.
What this means
Write like you’re helping a friend. Don’t sound like a textbook.
Why this matters
People stay longer when they feel you’re a real person talking to them.
Step 7: Use simple SEO so people can find your article later
SEO means writing in a way that helps search engines find your article.
What to do:
- use tools like Google Trends and Answer the Public
- pick long-tail keywords (more specific phrases)
Pick long-tail keywords (e.g., ‘how to grow on Medium’ vs. ‘Medium’).
Why this matters
This brings readers days or months later, not just on the first day.
Step 8: Place keywords in the right spots (without overdoing it)
Don’t spam keywords. Just place them naturally.
Do this
- put the keyword in the headline
- include it in the intro
- use it a few times in the article
Why this matters
It helps search traffic without making your writing sound weird.
Step 9: Publish with purpose (timing + presentation)
Publishing is not just clicking “publish.”
Timing
- weekdays
- 9 AM–12 PM EST
- avoid weekends
Presentation
- use a good cover image
- write a strong subtitle
- break up text with images/quotes/dividers
- preview on mobile before publishing
Preview your article on mobile before hitting publish!
Why this matters
Good timing helps early traction. Good formatting keeps readers from leaving.
Step 10: Promote it on purpose (don’t just wait)
Many writers fail here: they publish and do nothing.
What to do instead
- share on LinkedIn, Twitter/X, and Facebook
- don’t drop the link alone; add a teaser caption
- share in Medium communities on Reddit and Facebook groups
Don’t just drop the link, add a compelling caption that teases the value.
Why this matters
Promotion gives your article the first push it needs.
Step 11: Build support with other writers
Relationships matter.
What to do
- comment on other writers’ posts
- share their work
- build connections with writers in your niche
Comment on and share others’ articles. They’ll often return the favor.
Why this matters
It helps you get seen faster than writing alone in silence.
Step 12: Use email to increase Medium earnings
Email newsletters are “gold.”
Even a small subscriber list can give your articles a big traffic boost.
Why this matters
It sends readers to your post right away, which improves early performance.
Step 13: Engage with readers after publishing
Medium is about connection.
Do this
- reply to comments
- ask for engagement at the end (a simple CTA)
Example:
“If you found this helpful, share it…”
and claps are like likes.
Why this matters
More engagement usually means more reach.
Step 14: Use this 6-step recap as your routine
A clean recap. Use it as your checklist:
- pick a niche readers care about
- write strong headlines and intros
- use SEO for long-term traffic
- publish at the right time with clean formatting
- promote like it matters
- engage with readers to keep momentum
Chapter 3 – Writing for the right Medium publication
This chapter is about one big idea: a publication can help your article get seen faster.
A publication is like a “channel” on Medium. It has followers who already like that kind of content.
This matters because the publication already has an audience, so you’re not trying to get attention alone.
Step 1: Understand what a Medium publication is
A publication is a page on Medium that posts articles from a lot of writers.
People follow publications, so they see new posts from it.
Publications on Medium are like virtual megaphones for your articles.
Why this matters
If a publication accepts your article, you can reach more readers right away.
Step 2: Know why publications help more than “normal marketing”
Publications beat normal promotion for four reasons:
- Built-in traffic(they already have readers)
- Trust(readers think “this is worth reading”)
- More visibility(Medium tends to push publication articles more)
- Saves time and money(you’re not paying for ads)
Publications push your article to thousands (or even millions) of readers.
Why this matters
It can turn one good article into a much bigger result.
Step 3: Find publications that match your topic
Here’s the method:
- Use Medium’s search
- Search topics you write about
- Notice which publications show up often
- Click their Aboutor Submit pages
Use Medium’s search and check which publications appear frequently.
Why this matters
A great article can still get rejected if it doesn’t fit the publication’s theme.
Step 4: Check if the publication is actually worth it
Don’t pick a publication just because it looks popular. Check:
- follower count
- engagement on recent posts (claps, comments, shares)
- how active it is
Look at the number of claps, comments, and shares on their recent articles.
Why this matters
Some publications have many followers but low real engagement.
Step 5: Read the publication’s rules carefully
Every publication has its own process.
Some use a form. Some want an email. Some want you to tag editors.
Warning: follow instructions exactly.
Why this matters
A lot of writers get rejected because they ignore simple rules.
Step 6: Study what they publish before you send anything
Read their latest posts and notice:
- tone (serious vs casual)
- style (stories vs step-by-step guides)
- topics they repeat
- gaps you can fill
Spend time reading what they publish. This helps you understand the tone they prefer.
Why this matters
This helps you write something that feels like it belongs there.
Step 7: Write your article with the publication in mind
Don’t write first and hope it fits later.
Write while thinking: “would this publication’s readers like this?”
Write with the publication in mind.
Why this matters
Editors can tell when something is random and not meant for their readers.
Step 8: Pitch the editor in a simple, professional way
The transcript gives a full pitch email format.
It includes:
- a clear subject line
- a short intro (who you are + what you write about)
- the article title
- a link to your draft
- a polite closing
Example (email template):
Subject: Submission for Illumination – “How I Cashed $1,903.37 From One Article”
“Hi [Editor’s Name]… Here’s the link to my draft…”
Why this matters
Editors are busy. A clean pitch makes it easy to say yes.
Step 9: Be patient and keep trying
Some publications take a long time. Some never reply.
Don’t get stuck waiting forever.
If one says no, try another.
Why this matters
If you quit after one rejection, you stop too early.
Step 10: Learn from the real example (Illumination)
*Illumination is the name of the publication
Illumination worked well because:
- big engaged audience
- editors helped polish the article
- publication name added credibility
Being associated with a well-known publication gave my article credibility.
Why this matters
A strong publication can boost both reach and trust.
Step 11: Keep using what works, but don’t rely on it forever
If one publication accepts you and performs well, send more there.
Build a relationship with editors.
But don’t depend only on publications. Build your own audience too.
Stick with winners and also don’t rely on them exclusively.
Why this matters
Publications can change rules anytime. Your own audience is more stable.
Quick checklist you can follow
- find publications in your niche
- check engagement (not just followers)
- read submission rules and follow them
- read their recent posts to match style
- pitch clean and short with a draft link
- be patient, then try another if needed
- repeat with publications that work
Chapter 4 – Advanced Strategies
This chapter is about getting steady results over time, not just one lucky article. If you treat Medium like a system, you can grow.
Step 1: Stop guessing. use your stats
Medium shows you data. Use it to learn what’s working.
Notice:
- reads vs views(did people actually stick around?)
- reading time(did they stay long?)
- claps and comments(did it hit a nerve?)
Use Medium’s built-in stats, Reads vs. Views, Reading Time, Claps and Comments.
why this matters
If you don’t look at stats, you’ll keep repeating mistakes and won’t know why a post failed.
Step 2: Copy what works. don’t start from zero every time
If a type of article does well, write more like it.
Use this data to tweak your strategy. For example, if self-improvement articles perform best, write more of them.
why this matters
Most growth comes from repeating a working pattern, not random experiments.
Step 3: Turn one good article into a series
When something performs well, keep the topic going.
Do this:
- write a follow-up that goes deeper
- or make it a series
Create series and follow-ups ‘10 More Productivity Hacks That Changed My Life.’”
why this matters
People who liked the first one are more likely to read the next one. That’s easier growth.
Step 4: Update your older “evergreen” articles
Evergreen means the topic stays useful for a long time.
Go back and update older posts with new insights or info.
Periodically update older articles with new insights, stats, or examples.
why this matters
Old posts can keep earning if they stay relevant. Updating helps them stay alive.
Step 5: Try different article lengths (but be smart)
Medium likes articles that hold attention, but longer isn’t always better.
Suggestions:
- actionable articles: 7–10 minutes reading time(about 1,500–2,500 words)
- longer stories: only if the content really needs it
Aim for 7–10 minutes… about 1,500–2,500 words.
why this matters
Too short can feel shallow. Too long can make people quit.
Step 6: Write for people first, but don’t ignore the system
You need balance:
- if you over-optimize, you sound robotic
- if you under-optimize, nobody finds you
Write for both the algorithm and the reader. Over-optimize, and your writing feels robotic.
why this matters
Readers decide if you’re worth following. The platform decides how many people see you. You need both.
Step 7: Don’t trap yourself in one tiny topic
Stay in your niche, but explore nearby topics too.
If your niche is productivity, consider mental health, career growth, or time management.
why this matters
Adjacent topics can bring new readers without confusing your current audience.
Step 8: Build a writing routine you can actually keep
Consistency is hard but necessary. So make it realistic.
Do this:
- set a goal like one article per week
- spend 30 minutes dailybrainstorming
Write one article per week. Spend 30 minutes daily brainstorming ideas.
why this matters
People quit because they set huge goals and burn out. A small goal that you keep is better.
Step 9: Batch your work so it feels easier
Batching means doing similar tasks together.
Suggestion:
- one day: brainstorm
- one day: draft multiple pieces
- one day: edit and submit
Set aside one day for brainstorming, another day for drafting and a third day for editing.
why this matters
Switching tasks all day makes writing feel harder. Batching keeps you moving.
Step 10: Beat writer’s block with simple habits
Few ways:
- read other Medium posts for ideas
- keep a running list of topics
- break big ideas into smaller ones
Read other articles, keep a running list and break big ideas into smaller topics.”
why this matters
Writer’s block usually happens when you sit down with no plan.
Step 11: Use smart internal linking (basic “backlinks”)
Link your articles to each other to create a mini-web of content. This keeps people reading more of your work.
why this matters
If someone reads two or three of your posts in one session, your overall results improve.
Step 12: Start building an email list (so you don’t depend fully on Medium)
The big point: you don’t “own” your audience on Medium.
So:
- add a signup link at the end of articles
- offer something simple as a freebie
- email people when you post
Examples:
“Add a CTA… ‘Sign up for my newsletter…’”
“Offer a freebie…”
“Send out updates whenever you publish a new article.”
why this matters
If Medium changes tomorrow, your email list is still yours.
Step 13: Grow faster by working with other writers
Medium is a community. Use that.
Do this:
- leave real comments on others’ work
- co-write an article with someone
- share others’ posts
Comment thoughtfully, co-write articles and share and support.
why this matters
When people see you often, they get curious and click your profile.
Quick recap (what chapter 4 wants you to do)
- use stats to learn
- repeat what works
- build series
- update evergreen posts
- test article length
- balance humans + platform
- write consistently with batching
- link your posts
- build an email list
- collaborate with writers
Chapter 5 – Scaling Medium earnings and building sustainable income — step-by-step tutorial
This chapter is about turning Medium from “sometimes money” into “steady money.” The main idea: a few strong moves create most of your results.
Step 1: Accept the 80/20 rule
This truth: not every article will make money. That’s normal.
The 80/20 rule means:
- about 20% of your articleswill bring 80% of your income
Around 20% of your articles will bring in 80% of your income.
why this matters
If you expect every post to win, you’ll feel like you’re failing and you’ll quit. This rule keeps you realistic.
Step 2: Find your “top 20%” using Medium stats
Your job is to identify which posts are earning and getting read.
- go to Medium stats
- find the most-read and highest-earning posts
- look for patterns
why this matters
Once you know what works, you can stop wasting time on topics that don’t.
Step 3: Copy the pattern, not the exact article
Don’t rewrite the same article. Write new ones that use the same winning pattern.
Look for patterns like:
- topic type (ex: productivity, self-growth)
- tone (funny, serious, personal)
- format (list, guide, story)
why this matters
This is how you grow faster without guessing.
Step 4: Make spin-offs and follow-ups from winning posts
When one post does well, don’t leave it alone. Build around it.
Experiment with spin-offs or follow-ups to those articles.
why this matters
A follow-up is easier to write because you already know people like the topic.
Step 5: Reuse your best work on other platforms
You can republish top articles elsewhere with small changes.
Republish these top-performing articles on other platforms (like LinkedIn or your personal blog) with slight tweaks.
why this matters
One good idea can bring readers from more than one place. That makes your income more stable.
Step 6: Diversify where your content lives (don’t depend on one platform)
Other places to branch out:
- Substack (newsletter)
- LinkedIn (professional readers)
- your own blog (your home base)
Like on Substack, LinkedIn, Your Blog etc.
why this matters
If one platform changes rules, you still have other channels.
Step 7: Add affiliate links when it fits (and be transparent)
Affiliate links mean: you recommend a tool, and you may earn a small commission.
Medium allows it if you’re clear about it (as long as you’re transparent).
why this matters
It’s a second way to earn from the same article, especially on “tool” topics.
Step 8: Monetize beyond Medium (use Medium like a launchpad)
Ways your writing can lead to more income:
- freelance writing services
- digital products (ebook, course)
- coaching or consulting
why this matters
Medium income can go up and down. Extra income sources make it steadier.
Step 9: Build a simple content calendar so you stay consistent
A content calendar is just a plan for what you’ll publish and when.
Method:
- choose your publish goal (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly)
- plan themes for each month
- mix evergreen, trending, and experiments
why this matters
Without a plan, you publish randomly and then stop. A calendar keeps you moving.
Step 10: Build a personal brand on Medium
Your profile is like your storefront. Make it inviting.
What to improve:
- headline (what you write about)
- bio (short + clear + CTA)
- profile picture (good quality)
why this matters
When people like one article, they click your profile. A good profile turns them into followers.
Step 11: create a “signature style” so people recognize you
Readers should feel your “voice” is familiar with a consistent tone and structure.
That means:
- consistent tone (witty, serious, simple)
- consistent structure (lists, guides, stories)
why this matters
When readers know what they’ll get from you, they come back.
Step 12: Use publications in a smarter way (advanced use)
Advanced moves:
- pitch exclusives to top publications
- cross-pitch ideas (carefully)
- become a regular contributor
why this matters
Regular contributor status can lead to faster acceptance and more consistent reach.
Step 13: Build community (not just followers)
Suggestion:
- move readers into an email list like mentioned before
- create a group like Facebook or Discord
- share exclusive content and answer questions
why this matters
Community makes people stick. When people stick, income becomes steadier.
Step 14: scale by outsourcing once you can afford it
Outsource repetitive tasks like:
- editing
- research
- promotion (virtual assistants)
why this matters
Your time is limited. Outsourcing gives you time to write and plan better.
quick recap (what chapter 5 wants you to do)
- accept that only some posts will be big earners (80/20)
- find those winners and repeat the pattern
- build follow-ups and spin-offs
- reuse content across platforms
- add other income streams (affiliate, freelancing, products)
- plan with a calendar
- build your profile and style
- use publications strategically
- build community
- outsource when ready
Chapter 6 – Extreme Article Analysis
This chapter explains why one article did so well. You’re not copying the exact topic. You’re copying the parts that made people click, read, and engage.
The article being analyzed is called:
“12 Signs of a Highly Unintelligent Person According to Science”
- 8K views
- 397 claps
- $2,096.63 payout
Step 1: Build a headline that people can’t ignore
The headline worked because it mixes 3 things:
- a number(12 signs)
- strong emotion words(“highly unintelligent”)
- authority(“According to Science”)
why this matters
A headline is the door. If it doesn’t pull people in, nothing else matters.
Step 2: Use curiosity + a little controversy (but keep it safe)
This title makes people wonder: “do i do these things?”
That’s curiosity. And it’s tied to a fear: “i don’t want to be seen as dumb.”
It taps into insecurities. Nobody wants to be unintelligent, so curiosity kicks in.
why this matters
People click when the topic feels personal.
Step 3: Start your intro with a hook people enjoy reading
The intro used humor plus a promise.
Example (intro line):
“In the next few minutes, you’re about to become a certified genius… maybe not certified…”
why this matters
Humor lowers the reader’s guard. A promise gives them a reason to stay.
Step 4: Keep the format easy (listicle format)
The list format worked because it’s:
- easy to read
- easy to skim
- broken into small parts
why this matters
Most readers don’t read like a school book. They scan first. Lists help with that.
Step 5: Use fun subheadings so it doesn’t feel boring
The article used playful subheadings that kept it light.
Examples:
- “Dressing Down Even If You Know Better”
- “Nodding Your Head”
why this matters
Small fun headings keep people moving through the article instead of leaving.
Step 6: Mix “real life” examples with “proof”
The content worked because it had:
- relatable situations
- plus research sources for credibility
- plus humor so it didn’t feel heavy
why this matters
If it’s only jokes, people don’t trust it.
If it’s only science, people get bored.
Mixing both keeps trust and attention.
Step 7: Keep the tone light even when the topic feels sensitive
Calling people “unintelligent” could feel harsh. Humor makes it easier to accept.
Humor as a buffer makes uncomfortable truths easier to digest.
why this matters
Readers will stay longer when they don’t feel attacked.
Step 8: Use a clean, relevant image at the top
The header image matters because it signals quality.
Image sources:
- Unsplash
- Depositphotos
why this matters
People judge fast. A good image makes the article feel “worth reading.”
Step 9: Pick an emotional trigger that many people relate to
The article worked because it hits a universal fear:
people don’t want to look stupid.
why this matters
If the emotion is common, the audience becomes bigger.
Step 10: Keep the length in a “sweet spot”
It was around 5 minutes. Not too long, not too short.
why this matters
Long enough to feel valuable. Short enough to finish.
Step 11: Publish at a time when people care about the topic
Timing helped. The article was published July 19, 2024.
They say mid-year is when people rethink goals, so self-improvement content does well.
why this matters
Even good writing does better when it matches what people are thinking about right now.
Step 12: use a strong publication to boost reach (Illumination)
Publishing in Illumination helped a lot.
Illumination has a large and respected built-in audience and gives credibility boost.
why this matters
A good publication can give your article an instant audience and trust.
Step 13: End with a simple CTA that feels normal
The author’s CTA asked for:
- claps
- and email subscribers
- in a friendly tone
Example:
“You’re welcome to subscribe… If you enjoyed this article, please leave claps…”
why this matters
If people finish the article and do something (clap, comment, subscribe), the article stays alive longer.
Step 14: Use this “copy-the-structure” checklist for your next article
Here’s what you should copy from the case study:
- headline: number + strong emotion + “proof” hook (like “according to…”)
- intro: humor + clear promise
- format: listicle with short sections
- headings: playful and clear
- content: relatable examples + credible sources
- visuals: clean header image
- emotion: a topic people care about personally
- length: short enough to finish
- distribution: choose a strong publication when possible
- ending: simple CTA
Chapter 7 – Tagging Medium stories the right way
Tags are labels you add when you publish on Medium. They tell Medium what your article is about. If you pick the right tags, Medium can show your article to the right people.
Tags can “make or break” your article’s success.
Step 1: know what tags do on Medium
Tags help with 3 things:
- who sees your article
- how Medium categorizes your article
- how relevant it feels to readers
why this matters
If Medium doesn’t understand your topic, it may show your article to the wrong crowd, or not show it much at all.
Step 2: Understand the “right readers” idea
Some people follow tags.
So if you use a tag they follow, your article has a chance to appear for them.
why this matters
The right reader is more likely to read longer, clap, and comment.
Step 3: Copy the author’s tag logic (broad + niche)
The author’s rule: don’t use only huge tags. Don’t use only tiny tags. Mix both.
- broad tags = big reach
- niche tags = more focused, engaged readers
why this matters
Broad gets you seen. Niche gets you the “right” people who actually care.
Step 4: Use the author’s real tag set as a model
For the article about intelligence and behavior, use these 5 tags:
- Psychology
- Self Improvement
- Behavioral Science
- Personal Development
- Self
why this matters
This shows how to tag an article in a way that matches both topic and audience.
Step 5: Match tags to your actual content (no random tags)
Choose tags that reflect the main themes of your article.
They explain their themes were:
- intelligence
- behavior
- personal growth
why this matters
If you tag wrong, you attract people who don’t care. They leave fast. That hurts your article.
Step 6: Learn why each of the author’s tags made sense
This is the “why” behind the tag choices:
Tag 1: Psychology
Because the article talks about behavior and intelligence.
Tag 2: Self Improvement
Because the article points out behaviors to avoid, which feels like self-growth.
Tag 3: Behavioral Science (niche tag)
Because it uses research and studies, and it hits a specific audience.
Tag 4: Personal Development
Because it’s about becoming better through self-awareness.
Tag 5: Self
Because it’s about self-reflection and self-analysis.
why this matters
This teaches you to justify your tags. If you can’t explain why a tag fits, don’t use it.
Step 7: Research tags before you publish
To use Medium’s search for this.
Do this:
- type a tag idea into Medium search
- check if it’s active and popular
- look at trending articles and see what tags they use
why this matters
You don’t want dead tags or weird tags nobody follows.
Step 8: Always use all 5 tag slots
Medium allows up to 5 tags. Use them all.
why this matters
Each tag is an extra door for readers to find you.
Step 9: Make sure tags and tone match (tag synergy)
It’s not just picking popular tags. Your content and tags must match.
why this matters
When Medium sees your article doing well with that audience, it’s more likely to keep showing it.
Step 10: Use this tagging checklist for every article
Before publishing, do this:
- write your article’s 2–3 main themes
- pick 3 broad tagsthat fit those themes
- pick 2 niche tagsthat fit the details
- remove any tag that doesn’t truly match
- use all 5 tags
Chapter 8 – How to keep making money writing on Medium
This chapter is the “what you do now” part. It’s not new tricks. It’s a simple plan so you actually take action instead of only reading.
Success isn’t luck. It’s strategy + practice.
Step 1: Understand the big point of the whole book
Medium success comes from:
- understanding the audience
- writing content that connects
- using the platform the right way
why this matters
If you think it’s all luck, you won’t stick with it long enough to win.
Step 2: Start writing now (even if you feel not ready)
Don’t wait for perfection. Just start. Pick a topic, follow the blueprint, and hit ‘Publish.
why this matters
Most people fail because they wait too long. Writing teaches you faster than planning forever.
Step 3: Treat every post like practice, not a final exam
Some posts won’t hit. That’s normal. Treat every piece you write as a step closer to understanding what works for you.
So you should:
- test ideas
- learn from results
- improve the next one
why this matters
If you take every “bad post” personally, you’ll stop. If you treat it like practice, you’ll improve.
Step 4: Stay consistent (because Medium rewards people who show up)
Medium rewards consistency. Make it a habit, and the results will follow.
why this matters
One article can do well, but consistency gives you more chances to succeed and learn.
Step 5: Remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint
Building a writing career isn’t an overnight process.”
why this matters
If you expect quick wins, you’ll quit early. Long-term thinking keeps you going.
Step 6: Focus on the right goal (first $100, then $1,000)
The author frames progress as steps.
Whether it’s your first $100 or your first $1,000.
why this matters
Small goals are easier to reach. And each win gives confidence.
Step 7: Remember why writing matters (your words have value)
Your writing is worth something.
They also remind you:
- you don’t need a huge following
- you don’t need years of experience
- you just need to write with purpose and keep improving
why this matters
Most people don’t start because they think they’re “not good enough.” This mindset blocks progress.
Step 8: Use these simple next steps (from the transcript)
Three easy actions:
- Subscribe to the newsletter(to keep learning)
- Reach out / message(share wins, ask questions)
- Share the book(help others who want to monetize writing)
Examples:
“Subscribe to My Medium.com Newsletter…”
“Reach Out…”
“Share This Book…”
why this matters
When you stay connected and keep learning, you’re more likely to keep writing.
Step 9: Your “do this today” checklist (based on the conclusion)
Do these today so the course turns into real progress:
- pick one topic you can write about
- write one article draft (even messy)
- publish it
- repeat with the next article
This matches the author’s main push: start now, then build the habit.
Go ahead, open your laptop, and start building a writing career.
Simple takeaway
Read less, publish more. Learn by doing. Keep going long enough to get good.
If you’re wondering how to make money on Medium, this guide is written for new writers and experienced writers alike. Many writers start writing on Medium with a free account, join the Medium Partner Program, and earn money when Medium members spend read time on their articles. The Medium platform pays writers based on read time from paying members, which makes Medium different from a traditional Medium blog or an own blog.
Many new writers start writing on Medium after they joined Medium with a free account. The Medium platform is simple to use, and readers can discover your work without you owning an own blog.
Once you join the Medium Partner Program, writers can earn money when paying members read their articles. The partner program pays writers based on read time, not clicks.
This paid based system means Medium pay depends on how long Medium members stay with your content. More read time often leads to more money on Medium over time.
This section is useful for Medium writers who want to make money writing regularly by publishing Medium stories that reach a wider audience.
Search engines can surface articles well, which helps writers earn money from writing on Medium months after articles published.
A Medium publication helps a lot of writers reach readers faster and build a stronger writing portfolio.
Over the past few months, successful writers focus on Medium earnings by publishing consistently and refining their Medium writing.
Good tags help Medium stories reach the vast majority of readers who browse topics on the Medium platform.
For most writers, making good money on Medium comes from writing regularly, helping fellow writers, and treating Medium writing like a long-term path instead of trying to get rich quickly.
If you’re searching for how to make money on Medium, this section explains the basics clearly for beginners.
This step-by-step approach shows how to make money on Medium without needing an own blog or advanced setup.
Over time, learning how to make money on Medium becomes easier when you focus on quality and consistency.
You can use the Medium search bar to explore topics and see what other writers are publishing.
Many Medium readers decide quickly whether to continue reading an article.
These Medium articles are structured to help readers stay engaged.