You know that moment when you finally finish writing your post — you’re proud of it, maybe even a little emotional — and then Medium hits you with that tiny box: “Add up to 5 tags.”
Cue the blank stare.
If you’re like most writers, you either type random buzzwords or overthink the whole thing for ten minutes. But tags aren’t just decoration — they quietly tell Medium who to show your story to. And if you use them wisely, they can help your post reach the right readers faster than you think.
So here are five ready-to-use tag templates that make publishing easier — and more discoverable.
1. The Authority Stack (for guides & how-to posts)
Use when you’re teaching something practical.
Template:
writing · productivity · tips · online business · content strategy
Why it works: You’re mixing a broad category (“writing”) with niche authority (“content strategy”). Medium’s algorithm picks up both, helping your story reach creators and readers who crave actionable advice.
2. The Personal Growth Set (for reflective essays)
For stories about change, burnout, or finding your voice.
Template:
self improvement · growth · mindset · life lessons · reflection
Why it works: These tags mirror what readers actually search for. They rank high in Medium discovery and keep bringing traffic even months after publication.
3. The Creator Flow Mix (for digital work & creative life)
Perfect for freelancers, solopreneurs, and makers.
Template:
creativity · freelancing · motivation · entrepreneurship · work life balance
Why it works: Readers who click one of these tags tend to binge similar stories. This set keeps your piece circulating in that loop — the hidden visibility zone every writer wants.
4. The Storyteller Bundle (for essays with emotion + narrative)
If your piece feels like a conversation or a personal story:
Template:
storytelling · personal essay · authenticity · writing · human connection
Why it works: It draws readers who value voice over virality. If your writing feels raw and honest, this combo keeps it in front of emotionally engaged audiences.
5. The SEO-Friendly Hybrid (for growth-minded creators)
Use when you’re writing about writing — or growing your platform.
Template:
Medium · blogging · SEO · online writing · audience growth
Why it works: It combines internal Medium categories with evergreen search keywords. Bonus: it signals the algorithm that you’re part of the “creator” ecosystem, which can boost your overall reach.
- Keep a note or Notion page with all five templates.
- Before hitting publish, copy-paste the one that fits your story type.
- Swap one tag for a niche keyword specific to your article.
You’ll spend 20 seconds instead of 10 minutes, and your story will still land in front of the right people.
Use a keyword research tool (affiliate link below) to see which tags are trending on Medium or Google. Subtle changes — like choosing “solopreneurship” over “freelancing” — can quietly double your reach.
Final Thought
Tags might look small, but they’re quiet connectors. They help your stories find their tribe — and save you time while doing it.
Copy one of these sets, tweak it a little, and hit publish with confidence.