by D. Victor

Created on: March 25, 2009   Last Updated: May 01, 2009

It would be too optimistic to hope that every single article that you scribble would be a top-ranker. On that basis, we need not quibble about every article that seems to sink or plateau near the wrong end of the heap. It could be for a number of reasons outside of your control. However, there are certain occasions when you should start to pay attention to a low-rated article.

1) When the low-rating is a result of a perceived flaw in the article

Your article may not get the nod because you may have too many typos, your formatting is poor or your article is not well thought-out. There are a number of other flaws that may exist within your article. You should care if the low-rating reflects your own carelessness and is not merely a result of rater-preference.

2) Other articles that seem to be off-topic or of dubious quality are ranked above yours

Helium's rating system relies of the knowledge and integrity of raters. However, it is not foolproof. Sometimes, you may witness a poor article in the number one position when it clearly seems too short or even off-topic. If this is the case, it could be that the rating system wasn't able to sort out that title group fairly or that your article may be even worse! If you believe the rating system is at fault, report it. If it isn't, then it could be that your article is nearly as bad.

3) When you have leapfrogged that article with little reward

Suppose that you have leapfrogged your article previously and it is still not rated well. It is a clear reflection that- in the eyes of your peers- your article is lacks something compared to others in the group. You can ask for a critique of your article on the forums, to get feedback about its shortcomings. Indeed, it can be frustrating not to know. Thankfully, Helium's emphasis on community allows you to get some feedback from multiple perspectives.

4) When the article remains lowly-ranked for more than a few months

Some title groups are rated more frequently than others. Therefore, if you find that your article stagnates in the lower regions for some time, it could be because of a significant degree of rating inertia. However, when your article remains poorly ranked even after the ratings appear to have settled, it is time to take stock of it.

5) When the article is on a topic that you're versed in

Being versed in a topic does not guarantee a high-ranking. However, you might have a pet area that you really enjoy writing to because you are intimate with the topic. Writing is a manifestation

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>