A top headline is like a welcome mat — it draws disinterested readers in, makes them feel welcomed and encourages them to stay and read. It’s a crucial part of every story, yet it’s also one of the hardest things to write. That’s because headlines must summarize a full article while making the reader want to continue. But how do you achieve that? There are plenty of ways, and some of the top stories use a few specific strategies.
For example, if your story is about a new product or service, you might try writing a headline that sounds sexy or fun. This is a great way to attract attention and encourage clicks, but be careful — too much cleverness in a headline can turn readers off.
Another strategy is to write a headline that sparks an emotional reaction. This is especially true when your story has a strong point of view or is based on an emotional event.
If you’re not sure what kind of emotion to stir in your audience, consider using a power word, such as ultimate, exclusive, guaranteed, only or other words that suggest finality or importance. This is a classic formula that’s worked for over a century and can help you grab attention. It’s also important to focus on the essence of your story in the headline, so it stands out in a list of search engine results or when it travels on social media.
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