Catchy, provocative headlines are the key to driving traffic and clicks online. But going overboard with hype and exaggeration can backfire, damaging your credibility and turning off readers. Here are some tips for writing strong headlines that attract attention without resorting to cheap clickbait tricks.
Focus on Providing Real Value
The best headlines make a clear, compelling promise of useful information and content. Before writing your headline, identify the core value your post is offering readers. Are you providing concrete advice, revealing new insights, or offering a solution to a common problem? Craft your headline around that value.
For example, a headline like “5 Pro Tips for Writing Catchy Headlines” makes a specific valuable promise to the reader.
Use Descriptive Keywords and Phrases
Take care to include keywords and phrases in your headline that accurately convey what the content is about. This helps attract readers who are actually interested in your topic, not just trying to have their curiosity piqued.
For example, a recent study found that 60% of people skim headlines to decide what to read. A more direct keyword-focused headline could be “New Study Shows Higher Than Expected Sea Level Rise Over Next 50 Years.”
The best titles will also employ SEO strategies.
Pose Questions Sparingly
Headlines that pose intriguing questions can work well, but use them judiciously. The headline should present a question you actually provide an answer to in the post, not just a vague question meant to string readers along.
For example, “Are Carbs Really That Bad for You?” makes an effective headline if your post reviews the latest research on carbs and weight loss. But “What She Did Next Will Blow Your Mind” gives the reader no actual information.
Avoid Exaggerated Superlatives
Steer clear of over-the-top superlative claims like “The Best Way Ever to Build Muscle” or “Forget Everything You Know About Productivity”. These types of inflated claims sound like clickbait and are near impossible to live up to. Focus instead on concrete, believable statements about what you’re offering the reader.
Craft Catchy But Accurate Titles
A strong headline attracts attention by being snappy and memorable, but back up claims you make in the headline with facts in the body of the post. The headline “Elon Musk Shocks the World By Stepping Down as Tesla CEO” would likely get clicks, but if the actual post is just speculative, readers will feel duped.
The bottom line is that headlines matter — 80% of people read headline copy, but only 20% read the rest. Write clear, compelling headlines focused on true value for the reader, not just temporary curiosity. Savvy readers can spot clickbait tricks a mile away, so keep it real. With practice and attention to what works, you can consistently hook readers with quality headlines that deliver.