What is the ‘Deeply read’ list?

What is the ‘Deeply Read’ list?

For years, The Guardian has tracked how readers engage with our content over time. While traditional metrics like clicks offer insights into article popularity, they don’t always reflect the depth or value of the work. To address this, we developed a new approach that prioritizes the time readers spend with each piece. This method highlights stories that resonate beyond surface-level interest, showcasing a broader spectrum of journalism.

Our site has long featured a “Most viewed” list, displaying articles that attract the highest number of clicks. However, this format often overlooks thoughtful pieces on niche subjects. The “Deeply Read” list, introduced to complement this, focuses on attention time rather than sheer volume. It surfaces content that readers linger on, regardless of its length or style, offering a more nuanced view of engagement.

The list is tailored to regional audiences, appearing on localized home pages. It reflects the unique interests of different communities by emphasizing stories that hold deeper significance. By comparing reader engagement duration with article length, we’ve created a metric that ensures variety. This allows for a mix of topics, formats, and styles to reach readers in meaningful ways.

We hope you enjoy the increased variety and depth of the pieces you find here.