Catchy Headline Tips (That Don’t Make You Cringe)

Let’s be honest — writing a headline can feel like trying to name a new puppy. You want it to be cute, smart, and attention-grabbing… but not too much. You want it to stand out without sounding like you're trying too hard. Trust me, I’ve been there (with both headlines and puppies).

So, how do you write a headline that makes people stop scrolling, click, and actually want to read more? Let’s break it down into simple, clear tips — because catchy doesn’t have to mean complicated.

1. Keep it clear over clever

Yes, we love a good pun. But if your headline is too clever, people might not even know what you’re talking about. The best headlines make people instantly say, “Ooh, I want to read that.” So always ask: Will my reader get this in one quick glance? If not, it might be time to simplify.

2. Use numbers (they work like magic)

There’s a reason why “5 Tips for Better Sleep” or “7 Ways to Save Time” always do well. Numbers tell your reader what to expect and make your headline feel easy to digest. (Bonus: Odd numbers usually feel more natural and trustworthy!)

3. Ask a juicy question

Questions pull people in — especially when they tap into a problem or curiosity your reader already has. Think:

“Tired of Writing Social Media Captions That Flop?”

“Wish Your Website Could Sell For You While You Sleep?”

If they’re nodding yes, they’ll want to read more.

4. Add a little emotion

Words like “easy,” “quick,” “stress-free,” or “finally” go a long way in helping people feel something right away. Emotion connects. So if your headline can give off a little hope, relief, or excitement, it’ll grab attention faster than my dogs grab a snack.

5. Make it about them

Your reader is the main character. Not your brand, not your product, not your cute idea. So shift your focus from “Look what I made!” to “Here’s how this helps YOU.” Try using the word “you” or speaking directly to your audience’s needs and dreams.

Let’s do a quick test. Which headline sounds more clickable?

❌ “Our New Productivity Planner Is Here!”

✅ “Feel More Organized in 5 Minutes a Day (Here’s How)”

See the difference? One is an announcement. The other is a helpful promise.

So next time you’re stuck writing a headline, take a deep breath, sip some tea (bonus points if it’s chai), and try these tips. With a little practice, your headlines will be doing the heavy lifting — so your amazing content can shine.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to brainstorm headlines while watching people fall in love on a tropical island. Pure inspiration. 💁🏾‍♀️🍿