Website 140: listverse.com

How Can You Earn Money Writing For “listverse.com” Website

This guide shows you, step by step, how a beginner can learn to pitch and sell stories to listverse.com

You will learn what listverse.com wants, how to test your idea, how to write a pitch, and how payment roughly works. You can use this like a small SOP.

Listverse.com

Listverse · Contributor Snapshot

Pay: $100 per accepted list (typical) Format: “Top 10” fact lists Needs: Sources + uniqueness Audience: curious general readers Difficulty: beginner-friendly (if you research well)

Listverse is not a “guest post” site where you upload any topic. They buy specific lists that match their taste: remarkable + unique + well-sourced + simple English. If you can do that, you can build a paid writing habit.

Important: Read the official pages first, then use this guide as your step-by-step SOP: Write-Get-Paid, Submit-A-List, Author Guide (PDF).

Content Writing · Listicles Beginner Friendly Target: Listverse.com

Guide: How to Get Paid to Write for Listverse (Step by Step)

This is a beginner-friendly guide that teaches you how to write a Listverse-style “Top 10” list and submit it the right way. If you follow the steps, you will also learn a skill that you can reuse for blogs, magazines, guest posts, newsletters, and paid writing work.

The core idea is simple: Listverse buys lists that feel like a fun story, but every item is backed by reputable sources. Your job is to find a topic that makes people say “Wait… seriously?” and then explain it clearly in short sections.

Quick navigation: Start with the rules → Pick a winning topic → Research & sources → Submit.

Section 1 · Understand the publication

What Listverse really is (and what it is NOT)

Listverse is famous for one thing: Top 10 lists that make you curious. The lists are usually about mysteries, weird history, surprising facts, hidden stories, crime, science, creepy topics, misconceptions, and things you did not expect.

But here is the important beginner truth: Listverse is not a “publish anything” guest post site. It is closer to a small magazine that buys one type of article: a 10-item list written in clear English with sources for factual claims.

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What Listverse DOES want

10-item lists with a short intro + short entries.
Unique angles that are not already everywhere online.
Remarkable facts (the “wow, I didn’t know that” feeling).
Reputable sources to prove facts and claims.
A friendly voice: easy to read, not academic, not too long per item.

Start here: Write & Get Paid and Submit a List.

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What Listverse usually rejects

Personal stories that cannot be verified with strong sources.
Opinion-only lists (“best”, “worst”, “top” without evidence).
Topics they say they almost never publish (sports, self-help/advice, etc.).
Content that is already covered on Listverse or is copied/reworked from elsewhere.
Lists that rely on weak sources (random blogs, forum posts, recycled news).

Keep in mind: rules can be updated, so always check the official pages again before submitting.

Beginner question	Simple answer	What to do
“Can I write any topic?”	No. Listverse has a specific taste.	Read their pages and study recent lists first.
“Is this a guest post?”	Not really. It is closer to selling an article.	Write a full list draft before you submit.
“Do I need to be expert?”	You need to research well and write clearly.	Use reputable sources and keep the writing simple.
“What’s the main reason they reject?”	Not unique, not well written, not well sourced.	Focus on uniqueness + proofreading + sources.

Micro-rule that saves beginners: Listverse is “facts + fun.” Your writing should feel easy, but your sourcing should be serious.

Section 2 · The format

The Listverse list formula: 10 items, short sections, real sources

If you want to get accepted, you must respect the format. Listverse lists are not essays. They are structured like this: Title → Intro paragraph → 10 numbered items → sources.

The official pages strongly encourage lists that are around 1500–2000 words total, with 10 items minimum, and usually 1–2 paragraphs per item. That means you write short, clear mini-stories, not long chapters.

Part	What it should do	Beginner-friendly tip
Title	Promise something surprising (“10… you didn’t know”).	Use a clear noun + twist. Avoid vague titles.
Intro (1 paragraph)	Set the mood and explain what the reader will get.	Keep it 3–6 sentences. End with a curiosity hook.
Item headers	Make each item feel like a “headline inside the list.”	Use concrete names, places, dates, people, objects.
Each item (1–2 paragraphs)	Tell a short story and include a “wow fact.”	Write like you’re explaining to a smart friend.
Sources	Prove facts with reputable links.	Use 1+ strong source per item. Prefer primary sources.

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What “remarkable” means (simple version)

Remarkable means: “Most people will not already know this.” A beginner mistake is picking famous items (Bigfoot, Bermuda Triangle, etc.) with no new angle.

Bad: “10 Facts About Titanic” (too common)
Better: “10 Forgotten Stories From the Titanic’s Lesser-Known Passengers” (more specific)
Even better: “10 Titanic Myths That Survived Because of Bad Journalism” (unique angle)

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Where to study the “Listverse voice”

Do not guess. Study recent lists. Use categories and search:

Read 10 lists. For each list, notice: the title style, the intro length, item length, and how sources are used.

Beginner warning: If you ignore the format (10 items, short entries, sources), you will waste time. Nail the format first. Then add creativity.

Section 3 · Topic mining

How to find list ideas that have a real chance to get accepted

Most beginners fail because they pick topics that are too common. Listverse wants lists that are new to their readers, and ideally new to the internet (or at least a fresh angle).

Use this beginner method: Category → Micro-niche → Twist → Proof. You start from a category Listverse already likes, narrow it down, add a twist, and then confirm you can find strong sources.

Step 1

Start inside Listverse categories (follow their taste)

Open categories and write down 5 topics that feel fun to you:

Do not start with “what I like.” Start with “what Listverse already publishes,” then add your unique twist.

Step 2

Find micro-niches (specific beats broad)

Turn broad topics into micro-niches:

Broad: “WW2” → Micro: “forgotten sabotage operations”
Broad: “ghosts” → Micro: “documented ‘mass hallucination’ events”
Broad: “space” → Micro: “near-miss asteroid incidents you never heard about”

Micro-niches make it easier to be unique and easier to find sources.

Step 3

Add a twist that creates curiosity

A twist makes your title and list feel new. Common twist types:

Hidden: “forgotten, banned, lost, secret, unseen”
Misunderstood: “myths, misconceptions, false facts”
Unexpected: “the real reason, the weird side, the accidental outcome”
Reversed: “things you think are safe but aren’t” (with proof)

Important: avoid “clickbait with no proof.” The twist must be supported by sources.

Step 4

Run the “duplicate + sources” test before you write

Two quick tests:

Duplicate test: Search Listverse for your main keywords: Listverse Search.
Sources test: Can you find at least 10 reputable sources (1+ per item) that are not weak sites?

If you fail either test, change the angle before you waste hours writing.

Idea quality check	Good signs	Bad signs
Uniqueness	Hard to find the exact same list online; fresh angle.	Many identical “Top 10” lists already exist.
Remarkability	Most items make a reader say “wow” or “no way.”	Items are obvious or common knowledge.
Source strength	Primary sources, known news orgs, academic or official sites.	Blogs, forums, recycled list sites, Wikipedia as main proof.
Listverse fit	Mysteries, secrets, facts, misconceptions, creepy history, etc.	Sports, self-help, personal diaries, “best game” lists, opinion rankings.

Beginner shortcut: if you can write the title and instantly imagine the 10 items (with sources), you are close to a real Listverse list.

Try this 10-minute practice now. Fill this mini template. (You can copy it into your notes.)

If you can’t fill the “Sources I can use” line quickly, pause and research before you write.

Section 4 · Research & sources

The “receipts” system: how to research a Listverse list like a pro

Listverse lists are fun, but they are not “random internet facts.” They expect you to back up facts with reputable sources. Their author guide explains that sources are essential and recommends avoiding unreliable sources (including Wikipedia) and using reputable, recognized outlets.

Here is the beginner-friendly system: One folder → One document → One list of sources → One fact per source. If you build this system, you will write faster and safer.

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Step 1 · Create a “Source Bank”

Make a simple folder for your list topic. Add a text file or Google Doc called: Sources – [Your List Title].

For each item, paste 1–3 strong sources.
Under each source, paste the exact quote or fact you want to use.
Write a short note: “What does this source prove?”

This prevents “accidental misinformation.” You are not writing from memory; you are writing from proof.

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Step 2 · Use the “one wow fact” rule

Each list item should include at least one truly interesting fact. Not a boring detail. A wow fact is a detail that changes how a reader sees the story.

Better than: “It happened in 1972.”
Use: “It was hidden for 27 years because…” (with proof)
Or: “The official report found X, but the public believed Y.”

Source type	Why it helps	Beginner note
Primary sources (reports, court docs, official archives, academic papers)	Strongest proof. Low risk.	Use them when possible, even if you explain simply.
Recognized news organizations (local or national)	They have reputations and editorial standards.	Still verify claims and avoid opinion-heavy pieces.
Books / Google Books	Great for history and deep context.	Use page references in your notes; link to reliable previews if possible.
Academic or museum sites	Often factual and well edited.	Perfect for science, history, artifacts, discoveries.
Weak sources (random blogs, forums, recycled “fact” sites)	High risk. Easy to be wrong or copied.	Avoid. If a site is recycling a story, find the original.

Beginner trap: You read a summary article and stop there. Instead, follow the link trail to the original: the report, the study, the first interview, the first investigator, the first official statement.

Practical method

The “triangulation” rule (how to avoid wrong facts)

Before you use a strong-sounding fact, confirm it with at least two independent sources. If only one source says it, treat it carefully, or remove it.

Source A: first report or study
Source B: a second outlet confirming details
Optional Source C: a later analysis or official archive

This is how you write safe “facts + fun” lists without embarrassing mistakes.

Listverse-specific tip

Plan your citations early (not at the end)

In the Listverse author guide, they explain a streamlined format: use in-text markers after the fact they prove, and collect the links together at the end of the list (numbering across the whole list).

While drafting, add “(LINK 7)” style placeholders right after the claim.
Keep one running list of links at the bottom.
Do not restart numbering per item—keep counting up.

Even if you draft in your own format first, the mindset is the same: every claim needs a proof link.

Best habit: write like a journalist, even if the tone is fun. Your byline becomes trusted when readers feel safe.

Official research links (keep these open):

Section 5 · Writing

Write like Listverse: simple structure, clear voice, light humor

Now we write. The easiest way to succeed is to use a repeatable mini-template for every item. If you do that, you will not get stuck.

Think of each list item like a small scene in a movie: Hook → Context → Wow fact → Meaning → Exit line. You do not need to use all parts every time, but the structure will keep you focused.

Item part	What you write	Example starter lines (you can copy)
Hook	One sentence that makes the reader lean in.	“It started as a harmless mistake… until the report surfaced.”
Context	2–4 sentences explaining what is going on.	“In 19XX, officials believed X. But the archive shows Y.”
Wow fact	The rare, surprising fact with a source behind it.	“The document states that…”
Meaning	Why the fact matters (human impact, scale, twist).	“That detail matters because…”
Exit line	A clean close or small punchline.	“And that’s how a ‘minor’ detail became a legend.”

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Keep paragraphs short (this boosts acceptance)

Listverse lists are scanned quickly. Short paragraphs make it easier to read. Try this rule:

Most paragraphs: 2–4 lines (on desktop)
Most items: 1–2 paragraphs total
One “wow fact” per item is better than 10 small facts

If you find yourself writing long blocks, split them or cut them.

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How to use humor without ruining trust

Listverse often uses light humor, but the facts still must be accurate. Safe humor types:

Gentle irony (“As it turns out, the ‘expert’ wasn’t an expert.”)
Small contrast (“The plan was genius… on paper.”)
Human reaction (“Imagine reading that memo on a Monday morning.”)

Avoid mocking victims, tragedies, or serious crimes. Keep the humor respectful.

Draft workflow

Write fast: first draft “ugly”, then edit twice

Beginners try to write perfectly on the first try. That slows you down. Instead:

Draft 1: get all 10 items written (even if rough)
Edit 1: cut fluff, tighten paragraphs, improve hooks
Edit 2: proofread + verify every fact + clean sources

The author guide emphasizes that lists requiring heavy editing are rejected more often. Your goal is to submit something that needs minimal cleanup.

Style hygiene

Use simple English (but not “childish”)

A good Listverse list feels like a smart person talking clearly. If you want a practical tool, you can check readability with the Hemingway-style approach: simple sentences, fewer long words, fewer complicated clauses.

Prefer clear nouns and verbs.
Avoid heavy academic language.
Explain unusual words quickly in the sentence.
Use American spelling and careful grammar.

A simple test: read one item out loud. If you stumble, your reader will stumble too. Rewrite that sentence.

Useful “study” links on Listverse:

Misconceptions category (great for “myth vs truth” style)
History category (observe how they tell short stories)
Crime category (observe how they keep tone respectful)

Section 6 · Submission

Submit the right way (and what happens after you hit submit)

The safest beginner approach is: write the full list first, then submit it using the official page: Submit a List. Do not send half ideas. Listverse is buying finished lists, not brainstorming notes.

Step 1

Confirm you meet the “basic requirements”

Before you submit, re-check:

Your English is clean and professional (proofread carefully).
The topic is not personal/unverifiable. You can prove your facts with reputable sources.
The list is unique (not already covered on Listverse or elsewhere online).
The subject matches Listverse taste (avoid categories they say they rarely publish).

This is not meant to scare you. It simply saves you time.

Step 2

Prepare your submission text (clean formatting)

Write your list in a clean format:

Title
Intro paragraph
10 items with headers
Sources (links) for each item

Note: Listverse typically adds images themselves. The author guide says not to include images, and the editorial team will pick them.

Step 3

Submit using the official form

Use: Submit a List and follow the instructions on the page. If you have questions, they also provide guidance on: Write & Get Paid.

Use your real author name (your byline).
Include a valid email. They will contact you by email for acceptance/rejection.
Have your PayPal info ready (they require PayPal for payment).

Step 4

Be patient: response time and next steps

Listverse aims to accept or reject within about 30 days (and they recommend checking spam if you hear nothing). Sometimes you may receive feedback and can resubmit an improved list, but a rejection is usually final.

If accepted: you may receive edits, requests for clarification, or source checks.
If rejected: do not argue. Improve the idea and use it elsewhere (blog, newsletter, other outlets).
Always keep your sources and notes so you can reuse research ethically.

What happens	What you should do	Common beginner mistakes
They check uniqueness and fit.	Search Listverse before submitting.	Submitting a topic that already exists on the site.
They check writing quality.	Proofread twice and run spellcheck.	Typos in the title or first paragraph.
They check sources and facts.	Use reputable sources and cite clearly.	Using weak/recycled sources or missing proof links.
They may edit for style.	Be cooperative and fast with replies.	Taking edits personally or refusing to clarify facts.

If you want to be calm during the wait: start drafting your next list. Most successful writers build a pipeline.

Section 7 · Money & rights

Payment, PayPal, and what “selling a list” really means

Listverse is well known for paying writers a flat fee for accepted lists (commonly $100 per list). The exact details can change, so always read the current version of: Write & Get Paid.

But there is a bigger thing beginners must understand: this is not “publishing on your blog.” When Listverse accepts and pays for your list, the author guide explains that the content becomes their property, with rights transferred. That means you should not republish the same list elsewhere after it is purchased.

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Simple pay expectations

Typical fee: around $100 per accepted list (check the current official page).
Payment method: PayPal is required.
Timing: they state payment is typically sent within a set window after acceptance.

If PayPal cannot pay your country, Listverse notes you cannot submit. Confirm on the submission page.

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Think like a writer-business

Even if $100 feels small, one accepted Listverse byline can help you earn more elsewhere:

Use it as a portfolio clip when pitching other outlets.
Use the same research skill to write for magazines and blogs.
Turn your “list skill” into paid services (research + writing packages).

In other words: a Listverse acceptance can be both “money now” and “credibility later.”

Money topic	What it means in real life	Beginner action
Flat fee	You get paid once per accepted list.	Track your time; improve speed with practice.
Rights transfer	If purchased, you can’t republish the same list elsewhere.	Keep separate ideas for your personal blog/newsletter.
PayPal limitation	Payment depends on PayPal ability in your country.	Check supported countries before you invest heavy time.
Portfolio value	A respected byline can unlock better opportunities.	Keep a “Clips” page on your site and add Listverse there.

Beginner advice: build your income plan so you are not dependent on one site. Listverse can be one part of your writing strategy, not the entire plan.

Useful official links for “rules & legal” reading:

Section 8 · Ethics & AI

Plagiarism, honesty, and safe AI use (so you don’t get blacklisted)

Listverse is strict about plagiarism and unverifiable content. Their author guide makes it clear that plagiarism can lead to permanent rejection of future work. So treat ethics like a “must,” not a “nice to have.”

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What to never do

Do not copy paragraphs from any site (even if you “change a few words”).
Do not steal “the same 10 items” from an existing list and rewrite them.
Do not invent facts, dates, quotes, or “reports.”
Do not use weak sources to create fake certainty.
Do not use AI to generate a full draft and submit it without heavy human editing and fact checks.

If you want to use AI, use it like a helper, not like a ghostwriter.

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Safe ways to use AI (beginner friendly)

Brainstorm 30 titles, then pick 1 and rewrite in your voice.
Ask for outline suggestions, then fill with your own research.
Use AI to simplify sentences after you write (like a language coach).
Use AI to create a checklist: “Did I cite every fact?”
Use AI to point out where a paragraph feels confusing—then you rewrite manually.

Final responsibility is yours: sources, facts, fairness, tone.

Ethics checklist item	Why it matters	Simple habit
Original wording	Prevents plagiarism and protects your reputation.	Write from notes, not from copied paragraphs.
Verifiable facts	Listverse is “facts + fun,” so proof matters.	Keep a source bank with links per item.
Respectful tone	Some topics involve tragedy or crime.	Be human; avoid jokes at victims’ expense.
Clear citations	Makes editorial review faster and safer.	Add placeholders while drafting, not after.

Golden rule: if you can’t back it up with a reputable link, don’t say it like it’s a fact.

Section 9 · More income

How this “Listverse skill” helps you earn from blogs, magazines, and guest posts

Even if you never publish on Listverse, this training is valuable. Why? Because you are learning a paid writing “core skill”: research + structure + storytelling + citations. That skill transfers to almost every writing job.

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Turn one list into 4 pieces of content

When you research 10 items, you can reuse the material ethically in multiple ways (not by copying, but by reshaping):

Blog post: expand 3 items into one deep article with headings and images.
Newsletter: “Today’s 3 strangest facts…” short format.
Guest post: pick 5 items and pitch it to another outlet in that niche.
Social: turn each item into a short post or carousel.

Important: if Listverse purchases your exact list, don’t republish that same list elsewhere. But your research habit and your ability to find good sources still stays with you.

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Build a paid writing ladder (beginner friendly)

Level 1: publish 3 lists on your own blog (practice + portfolio)
Level 2: pitch smaller sites (learn editors + deadlines)
Level 3: pitch bigger outlets (Listverse-style discipline helps)
Level 4: offer “research + writing” services to clients

The fastest growth happens when you write weekly, not when you write once and wait for magic.

Where you can earn	How Listverse skills help	What you create
Blogs (your own)	Structure + curiosity hooks + readability	Deep posts based on 3–5 items
Guest posts	Clear outlines + proof + credibility	Pitch: “5 surprising facts with sources”
Magazines / digital outlets	Research discipline + tone control	Reported explainers or mini-investigations
Freelance clients	Fast research + clean writing	Listicles, SEO blog posts, newsletters

If you want a simple monthly goal: write 4 lists a month (one per week). Submit 1 to Listverse and publish 3 on your own platform. You will improve fast.

MC-Guide