Listings with clear photos and honest descriptions get messages faster. The good news is that it takes only about five minutes to do it well.

Take better photos

1. Clean the item first. A quick wipe makes it look much better.
2. Use daylight. Stand near a window or take the photo outdoors.
3. Keep the background simple. Move clutter out of the frame.
4. Take two to four photos. Show the whole item, a close-up of any damage, and something for scale if the size is not obvious.
5. Wipe your phone lens. It is a small step that makes photos sharper.
6. Protect your privacy. Do not show house numbers, name plates, documents or people’s faces without permission.

If you are giving away a phone, tablet or laptop, reset it first and remove your accounts, SIM and memory card.

Write a clear title

Be specific. “Wooden study table with drawer” works better than “Table”. Include the type of item and, where it helps, the colour or size.

Description checklist

• What the item is and its size
• Its condition: working, scratched, or missing parts
• Your general pickup area (never your exact address) and when you are available
• Any conditions, such as “pickup only” or “please bring someone to help carry”

Here is an example: “Wooden study table with one drawer, 4 ft wide. Sturdy, with a few scratches on top. Pickup only from Kollam town, evenings after 5 pm. Please bring help to carry it.”

Choose the right category and area

Pick the category that fits best, and enter your general area so people nearby can find you.

After you post

• Reply politely and quickly
• Agree a time and a public meeting place
• Mark the listing as taken once it is gone
• If nobody replies after a few days, try a new photo or a clearer description

Have something to give? Post a free item now.