What is a listicle?

A listicle is a type of article that organizes information into a list—think numbered or bulleted points that make content easy to read and share. You’ve likely seen them everywhere on social media, from “10 Tips for Better Sleep” on Facebook to “5 Must-Know Trends” in an X thread. They’re popular because they grab attention, deliver value fast, and fit perfectly into the way people scroll and consume content online.

For Brandwatch users, listicles are a goldmine. They can showcase insights from Brandwatch Consumer Research, turning complex data into bite-sized takeaways that engage audiences and drive traffic. Let’s break down what makes listicles tick on social media and how you can use them to connect with your readers.

How listicles work on social media

Listicles shine on platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram because they’re built for quick engagement. People don’t have time for dense paragraphs—they want useful info they can skim and share. Here’s why they’re a big deal:

  • Easy to Share: A catchy title like “7 Secrets to Boost Your Brand” paired with an image gets likes, retweets, and shares in no time.
  • Quick to Read: Short points match the fast pace of social media, keeping readers hooked without overwhelming them.
  • Visual Boost: Add a photo or video to each item, and you’ve got content that pops—especially on Instagram carousels or Stories.
  • Click-Worthy: Teasers like “Find out #3—it’ll surprise you!” pull people from a post to your site.

Take X, for example. Brands often turn listicles into threads—each tweet covers one point, tagged with hashtags like #MarketingTips to reach more people. On Instagram, a carousel post might list “5 Ways to Grow Your Audience,” with each slide pairing text with a bold visual. It’s simple, effective, and keeps followers coming back.

Why listicles matter for brands

For marketers using Brandwatch, listicles are more than just fun reads—they’re a way to stand out. With tools like Consumer Research, you can dig into what your audience cares about, then package those insights into a listicle. Say you spot a trend in beauty conversations—turn it into “6 Beauty Consumer Trends Marketers Should Watch” and share it across channels. It’s actionable, it’s useful, and it shows off your expertise.

They also drive results. Listicles often get more clicks and shares than traditional articles, helping brands boost awareness and bring traffic back to their site. Plus, they’re perfect for repurposing—turn that list into a video, infographic, or email teaser to keep the momentum going.

How to create a great listicle

Ready to make your own? Here’s a quick guide to crafting a listicle that resonates on social media:

  1. Pick a Topic They’ll Love: Use Brandwatch to find what’s trending with your audience—maybe it’s sustainability or tech hacks.
  2. Nail the Title: Go for something clear and catchy, like “9 Ways to Save Time on Social Media in 2025.”
  3. Keep It Useful: Each point should give real value—think tips, stats, or examples they can use right away.
  4. Add Visuals: Pair each item with an image or gif to grab attention, especially on visual platforms.
  5. Make It Shareable: Add buttons for easy sharing and tag relevant handles or hashtags.

Pro tip: Keep each point short—about 25 words or less—so it’s skimmable. Read it aloud to check the flow. If it feels natural, you’re on the right track.

Real Examples to Inspire You

Need ideas? Check these out:

  • “15 Songs That Defined My Decade”: A personal twist that sparks nostalgia and shares on Facebook.
  • “Top 10 Tools for Small Businesses”: A LinkedIn favorite for professionals looking to level up.
  • “7 Viral Moments of 2025”: Perfect for an X thread that recaps hot topics with Brandwatch data.

These work because they’re relatable, packed with value, and easy to pass along. Your turn—what’s your audience craving?

Get Started with Listicles Today

Listicles are your ticket to cutting through the noise on social media. They’re simple to create, fun to read, and powerful for engagement. With Brandwatch, you’ve got the insights to make them unbeatable—whether you’re highlighting trends, tips, or data-driven takeaways.

So, what’s next? Dive into Consumer Research, find a hot topic, and start listing. Your audience is waiting—give them something they can’t resist sharing.