Changing the Title of a Piece of Writing Tips and Recommendations
Changing the title of a piece of writing can be a daunting task, especially if you have put in a lot of effort into the original title. However, there are times when changing the title is necessary to improve the overall impact and effectiveness of the piece. In this article, we will discuss some useful tips and recommendations for changing the title of your writing.
Tip 1: Understand the Purpose
The first step in changing the title of your writing is to understand the purpose of your piece. What message are you trying to convey? Who is your target audience? What are you hoping to achieve with your writing? Once you have a clear understanding of the purpose, it will be easier to come up with a title that accurately reflects your message and resonates with your audience.
Tip 2: Brainstorm Ideas
The next step is to brainstorm as many title ideas as possible. Don't censor yourself at this stage, just jot down any ideas that come to mind. This can be a solo activity or it can involve others who are familiar with your writing. The goal is to generate a list of potential titles that you can refine and narrow down later.
Tip 3: Use Descriptive Language
When selecting a new title, it's important to use descriptive language that accurately reflects the content of the piece. This can include specific keywords, phrases, or themes that are highlighted in the writing. A strong, descriptive title will not only attract readers but also help search engines identify and rank the piece appropriately.
Tip 4: Keep It Short and Simple
While a descriptive title is important, it's also crucial to keep it short and simple. Most readers will only glance at the title briefly before deciding whether or not to read on. A long, convoluted title may turn readers off or confuse them. As a general rule, stick to a title that is no more than 10-12 words.
Tip 5: Test and Refine
Once you have selected a new title, it's important to test and refine it. This can involve showing the title to others for feedback or performing A/B testing to determine which title is more effective. Don't be afraid to make adjustments or even scrap the title altogether if it's not working as intended.
Conclusion
Changing the title of a piece of writing may not always be easy or convenient, but it's an important part of the writing process. By following these tips and recommendations, you can ensure that your new title accurately reflects your message, resonates with your audience, and helps your writing achieve its intended impact.