Chapter 1: The Importance of Compelling Titles

Hello, Class! Today, your professor is excited to impart some essential wisdom about Marketing 101, specifically focusing on the significance of titles.

Companies invest significant resources in designing eye-catching packaging for their products, as bland packaging often leads to poor sales. The same principle applies to the titles and subtitles of your articles.

Generic products generally lack the appeal and flavor of their branded counterparts. While some generic options may not be entirely deficient, it’s evident that many fall short when compared to well-known products. This analogy holds true for stories and articles on Medium; potential readers are inundated with choices. Why should they pause to engage with your piece if the title is uninspiring?

As the owner and editor of Bouncin' and Behavin' Blogs, I review a vast array of submissions. While I find many titles impressive, I often encounter titles that miss the mark. The standout titles, however, always catch my eye.

I strive to keep editing to a minimum, respecting the integrity of your original work, including your titles. That responsibility lies with you. However, I cannot help but emphasize the critical role that titles, subtitles, and your featured image play in attracting readers. These elements significantly influence the number of reads your article will garner.

Consider your experience in Reader-Mode on Medium. You scroll through countless articles before deciding which one to engage with. Have you noticed what prompts you to stop scrolling?

Typically, the title plays a pivotal role. If the topic resonates with your interests, it may halt your scrolling. Conversely, an attention-grabbing title can also entice you to pause, even if the subject isn't initially appealing. Just like a distinctive product in a grocery aisle, the challenge is to make your writing stand out. Let’s explore how to achieve this.

Section 1.1: Crafting Clickable Titles

A variety of elements contribute to a compelling title. I endeavor to integrate several of these aspects into each article I post. On occasion, I successfully incorporate all four factors into a single title, yielding exceptional results.

Subsection 1.1.1: Title Length Matters

If your title is excessively lengthy, it risks losing the reader’s interest. A title must be sufficiently descriptive but concise enough to retain attention.

If your title spans multiple sentences or consumes more than a couple of lines, it is too long. Conversely, if it consists of only two or three words, it is likely too short. An ideal title should be a single, impactful sentence, with the subtitle expanding on your theme without becoming an extension of the title itself.

Chapter 2: Engaging and Creative Titles

The key to capturing a reader’s attention lies in crafting a clever, curious, or even controversial title. Strive for originality that prompts curiosity and encourages engagement.

For instance, instead of generic titles like "Why I Like Nice People," consider something bolder, like "Nice People Kick More Ass Than Douchebags." Clever, provocative titles can draw in readers and spark their curiosity.

Although using profanity can be an effective tool, it should be employed judiciously. The goal is to evoke curiosity without alienating potential readers.

In the video "10 Costly Money Mistakes to Avoid," viewers are guided through common financial pitfalls that can derail their economic stability. This insight is crucial for anyone looking to enhance their financial literacy.

The second video, "15 Money Mistakes MOST AMERICANS Are Making - DON'T DO THIS," highlights widespread financial errors and offers practical solutions to avoid them.