What is a good blog post title formula?
Common title patterns
A how-to title tells readers what they will learn, such as how to plan a weekly meal menu. A question title matches the words people type into a search box. A list title sets expectations for the structure, such as five ways to cut grocery costs.
Specific wording beats clever wording in most cases. A title that names the reader's problem and the solution usually earns more clicks than one that is vague or puzzling.
- How to: state the outcome clearly
- Question: match a real search phrase
- List: say how many items you cover
- Include the main keyword near the start
Check that the title matches the post
A title should match what the article delivers. If the title promises a list, the post should list things. Misleading titles may get clicks once, but they tend to hurt trust and time on page.
Write three or four title options, then pick the one that is clearest for a stranger. Read it out loud and ask if it tells you what the post is about.
- Make sure the post delivers the title's promise
- Write three or four options
- Pick the clearest one for a stranger
Common mistakes
- Writing a clever title that hides what the post is about.
- Promising a number of tips and then delivering fewer.
- Stuffing several keywords into one title until it reads awkwardly.
