How to Write a Story That Sticks

The 6 principles behind great storytelling.

Photo by Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash

Telling a great story is an art.

In Made to Stick, Chip and Dan Heath uncover why some stories live and others die, which I find fascinating as a copywriter. So, I broke down the 6 principles they mention in their book about why some stories stick.

I hope this gives you some ideas on how to become a better storyteller.

1. Unexpected

Break a pattern to capture attention

If you want to make people curious, you have to throw something unexpected at them.

Unexpected headlines and events make your story more interesting. Make your story worth reading by engaging someone’s curiosity.

2. Simplicity

Simple messages are clear messages

Take away the parts of your story that serve no purpose.

If you want to tell an engaging story, you must know what to include and exclude.

3. Stories

Stories make you more relatable

Stories make us more relatable.