How to Write Headlines That Get Clicks (Without Sounding Like Clickbait)

2025 By VPG - Visual Plan Guide - Writing Samples

Why Headlines Matter

They say you only get one chance to make a first impression—online, that means your headline. According to Copyblogger, 80% of people read the headline, but only 20% read the rest. A strong headline is the difference between “keep scrolling” and “click to read more.”

But here’s the catch: in a world flooded with clickbait, readers are smarter than ever. They crave clarity and value, not hype. So how do you write headlines that stand out and stay trustworthy? Let’s dive in.

The Psychology Behind a Great Headline

  • The Curiosity Gap: Tease, don’t tell. Give just enough to spark curiosity, but not so much that you give it all away.
  • Power Words: Words like “proven,” “unexpected,” and “essential” add weight without exaggeration.
  • Clarity Over Cleverness: A clever pun is great—unless it’s confusing. Make your headline crystal clear first; be witty second.

5 Proven Headline Formulas That Work

These headline structures consistently deliver results across industries:

  1. List Headlines: “10 Ways to Boost Website Traffic Without Paid Ads”
  2. How-to Headlines: “How to Craft Emails Your Customers Actually Open”
  3. Question Headlines: “Are You Making This Simple SEO Mistake?”
  4. Command Headlines: “Stop Wasting Time on the Wrong Metrics”
  5. Contrarian Headlines: “Why Blogging Less Can Get You More Traffic”

Balancing SEO and Human Appeal

Search engines matter—but don’t write for them. Write for readers first. Here’s how to balance it:

  • Use Your Target Keyword Naturally: Place it near the start if possible.
  • Optimal Length: Aim for 60 characters or less to avoid truncation in search results.
  • Make It Make Sense: Don’t force a keyword if it makes the headline awkward.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Being Too Vague: “New Trends in Business” won’t cut it. Be specific.
  • Overhyping: If the post doesn’t deliver on the headline, you lose trust.
  • Keyword Stuffing: “Best Marketing Marketing Strategy for Digital Marketing” — enough said.

Real-World Rewrites

Example 1:

Before: “Get Fit Fast”

After: “7 Simple Habits That Will Make You Feel Stronger in 30 Days”

Example 2:

Before: “Social Media Tips”

After: “The 5 Social Media Mistakes Most Brands Still Make (and How to Fix Them)”

Example 3:

Before: “Marketing Advice for Startups”

After: “How Startups Can Market Smarter (Even with a Tiny Budget)”

Final Thoughts

Writing headlines is part art, part strategy. When done well, it builds trust, drives traffic, and sets the tone for the entire piece. Focus on clarity, curiosity, and value—and your audience will keep coming back.

Need compelling, conversion-focused content for your blog or business? Let’s connect and bring your brand’s voice to life.