Best Tips on How to Title an Essay
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How to Make a Good Title for an Essay
The success of an essay heavily depends on its title. This may not come as a surprise given that the essay title is the first aspect to provide the reader with a sneak peek into the text. It piques our interest to read the paper in the first place and gives us a preview of what to expect from the author.
Our research paper writing help prepared a thorough guide on how to title an essay. Here you may find tips and tricks for developing an effective APA or MLA essay title. So, let's dive straight into the article for more exciting details!
Essay Title Format
During your essay writing process, ensure you know the stylistic requirements before beginning an essay. Knowing the format you need to employ is crucial because different style manuals may have varying requirements. Mostly, you could have used an APA or MLA essay title format. Our service, where you can buy essay online , explains these two in more detail below.
Essay Title MLA
If you're required to create an essay title MLA format, check whether your instructor wants you to make a separate cover page. If not, put a heading at the beginning of your work that includes your name, the name of your professor, the course ID, and, lastly, the date.
On the other hand, if you must present a cover page for your essay title MLA, then you need to include the following:
- The name of the college
- The title of your paper
- The subtitle of your paper, if applicable
- Your first and last name
- Your teacher or professor's name
- The class name or course number
- The date the paper is due
The formatting instructions are as follows:
- Double-spaced
- Times New Roman font
- Size 12 font
- Apart from very short terms, each word's initial letter should be capitalized. The initial word, however, must always be uppercase.
- The title page shouldn't include a header with the page numbers.
Essay Title APA
Having discussed the MLA format essay title, let's explore what the APA student title page includes:
- The paper title
- Author names
- Institutional affiliation where the author carried out the study
- Name and number of the course
- Professor name
- Page number
The title of an essay format instructions:
- double-spaced
- 1" margins
- 12-point Times New Roman
- According to APA, your title should be targeted and brief, without unnecessary words or abbreviations
How to Choose a Good Title for an Essay: Important Qualities
Nobody will read a dull headline. Your title should grab your audience's attention and encourage them to read the rest of the work. As it is one of the initial things readers see, having a strong attention grabber is essential when writing an essay from scratch. To fully understand how to come up with a title for essay that is strong and exciting, let's consider a few following factors:
Employ a Catchy Hook - Usually, the title of essay format follows a similar basic structure, especially if they are used for an academic article. The hook serves as a unique component that attracts the reader. It's a captivating statement informing others about the topic of the essay. You can also explore several types of sentences with examples that can help you develop the ideal hook structure.
Consider Topic Keywords - These are essential terms or expressions pertinent to your subject and help your reader understand the focus and body of your article. These focus keywords should serve as a brief, one- to two-word article summary. You can choose some terms from the research topic your instructor gave you, but after your thesis statement is formed, this is where you should hunt for ideas.
Use a Colon - A colon is frequently used in academic titles to separate concepts and sentences. The standard procedure is to place a clever remark or brief quotation before the colon. Although these beginning words offer flavor, they can be overdone. Because of this, some individuals find using the colon to be repugnant. Therefore be careful not to misuse this method.
Ask a Question - To write essay title that is strong, consider asking a question. But, use it with caution because posing a question will make your tone less formal. As long as the question is suitably phrased to meet the subject of your essay, feel free to employ it. Always check to see if the title question still applies to your points in the essay's body. The thesis statement should be appropriately reflected as well.
Find Inspirational Quotes - There is no formula for selecting essay titles from the textual content. You may get playful and choose any quotation, proverb, or catchphrase that applies to your particular publication and works as a title. You may also create a great essay title using well-known expressions or idioms. Doing so will help your readers relate to and feel more comfortable discussing your subject.
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Here are other rules for how to create a good title:
- Title every section of writing: In the process of writing, create interesting subheadings to give your paragraphs an identity. Also, they make your text look ordered and clear.
- The title must bear the theme of the text: choose a title that summarizes the essay.
- Capitalize all words with certain exceptions: Capitalize the first letter of every word in the title, but do not capitalize pronouns, articles, prepositions, and conjunctions.
- Avoid underlining the title: Since topics come in boldface, underlining it will amount to overemphasis. Some authorities say that if you must underline it, do not bolden it.
- Review the final version of the title: Do not forget to do a quick review of the final version of the title—check for grammar, structure, spelling and so on. Re-read it to determine if the title has given justice to the essay. Confirm if the topic is catchy enough to attract your reader’s attention.
- When using a colon in your title, follow the rules: Since we are dealing with punctuation rules here, let us talk about the colon – when you have two eye-catching topics, separate them with a colon.
Student’s Guide on How to Come Up with a Title for an Essay
Titling an essay can be easy, but there are a few core principles to be taken into account. The following tips will help you stay on track and avoid any common pitfalls.
Essay Goes First
Never start with a title! If you write it before the rest of the text, it will be based on it, and it should be vice versa. Writing an essay before choosing a heading will give you a clear understanding of what should make sense to the reader. Re-read the finished paper several times to decide on the title. The last thing to create is a title - such strategy will give more time to spend on crafting an essay outline, conducting research, or writing the paper itself.
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What are you writing about? What is the style of your paper, and is it an academic essay or a free-form essay like a narrative essay? If the topic of your essay is “Do people who commit heinous crimes deserve the death penalty?” your title should not be humorous; it should be strict and to the point.
If your topic is “Why do people like watching funny cat videos?”, feel free to craft a funny title. Determine the tone of your essay and base your title on it—in consideration with the essay’s topic.
The tone can be:
- Serious - “The implications of global warming”
- Funny - “How cats and dogs love their masters”
- Amiable - “Ways to fight depression”
- Persuasive - “Why positive thinking is a must have skill for every person”
- Informative - “Ten rules for creating a chemical at home”
The main goal of a title is to name its paper. There is no need to tell an entire story in the title, or provide any useless details. Sum up your paper in a few words! Another way to do this is to sum up your thesis statement, as it represents the main idea of your essay. Take your thesis and squeeze it into 3-4 words. Imagine that you are creating a title for your favourite newspaper or a slogan for Coca-Cola.
Don’t use fancy words! Take 2-3 main words (keywords), put them together, and stop wasting your time. Avoid jargon and abbreviations.
Search engine optimization (SEO) is something that can help any student and young writer reap benefits. While working on a title, detect the words related to the central idea of the paper. Type the words into the search field of Google and add the word “quote.” A search engine will show numerous web pages with in-text quotations that could be useful. Select the fragment you like. It is possible to learn how to make a creative title for an essay in this way.
Discover several more tips from experts:
- Never forget the “What,” “Who,” “When,” “How,” “Why,” and “Where” questions (if you start with one of these questions, your title has a chance of getting noticed);
- Come up with an unexpected image not related to the selected topic;
- Sometimes, starting with a lie increases the chances of a title being able to catch an eye;
- Review our catchy essay title examples.
Need Some Help With Your Essay's Title?
Feel free to contact EssayPro and we will provide you with a writing help at a moment’s notice. With the years of essay writing experience, titling becomes second nature, so you no longer need to worry about having a catchy headline on your paper.
Essay Title Examples: Bad vs Good
The strongest essay titles condense lengthy essays into concise statements. When wondering how to make an essay title, think carefully about your stylistic choices and essay format to produce an excellent one. Our dissertation help has provided essay title examples to let you understand the difference between good and bad ones more vividly.
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Bad Essay Title Examples
As we discussed how to create an essay title and the specific elements that go into it, you should have a clear idea of how important it is to craft a strong title. In contrast, first, look at weak essay title ideas that can break your paper. This should serve as an example of why your heading should not be like this:
Ex 1: ' How Television Has Changed Our World ' - too vast and not informative
Ex 2: 'The Ara Pacis Augustae' - unclear for those who don't know Latin
Ex 3: 'The Most Poisonous Frog' - does not provide any insight
Ex 4: 'A Brief History of Subcultures and How They Manifest Themselves in a Constantly Changing Socio-Economic Environment' - too long and complicated
Ex 5: 'The Little Mermaid 29 Years Later: Selling a Harmful Sexist Message Through a Naughty Image' - inappropriate language
Good Essay Title Examples
Now that you know what a bad essay title looks like, let's explore good essay title examples as their substitutes. Examine the following essay title format styles that will give you a clear understanding.
Ex 1: ' The Electronic Babysitter: A Social History of Uses of the Television' - gives an exact description of what the essay will be about
Ex 2: ' The Modern Historical Significance of the Ara Pacis Augustae to the City of Rome' - here, the reader can understand what they will be reading about
Ex 3: ' A Deadly Beauty: The Evolution of Skin Coloration and Toxicity of the Poisonous Dart Frog' - clear, informative, and on-point.
Ex 4: 'Reconsidering Counterculture in Contemporary Society' - informative enough and brief
Ex 5: 'The Projection of Gender Stereotypes in The Little Mermaid' - employs appropriate language
Catchy Essay Title Ideas
You now understand that long, complicated headlines do not accurately convey the paper's main idea. Take ample time to consider the word choice before tilting your work. How do you create good essay titles? Think creatively and with common sense. But meanwhile, for your convenience, we compiled title ideas for essays you may use as inspiration.
Persuasive Essay Titles
- Why Receiving College Education is Important: Examining Long-term Benefits
- Face-to-Face Courses Cannot Be Replaced by Online Learning
- An MBA Does Not Ensure Corporate Success.
- Every Company Should Adopt a Green Strategy.
- Energy Drinks Represent a Lucrative Market Segment.
- Aircraft, Excess Weight Charges, Need to be Prohibited.
- Patients' Life Shouldn't be Put to Death by Nurses.
- Google Glasses May Increase the Number of Auto Accidents.
- All of the Conventional Malls Will Soon be Replaced By Online Shopping
- How Do Team-building Exercises Contribute to the Development of Inventions?
- Illegal immigrants are entitled to remain in the US.
Academic Essay Titles
- Several English Dialects: The Link Between Various Cultures
- Instagram: A social media innovation
- Is it possible to reverse drug-induced brain damage, and if so, how?
- What the Future Holds for Humans in the Light of Artificial Intelligence
- The Story of Two Nations after Decades of Conflict: North and South Korea
- Video Games and Their Learning Context in Schools
- Free Wi-Fi: Strategies for Enhancing the City's Economy
Strong Research Paper Titles
- Digital World Cybersecurity
- E-business to Provide New Paths for Booksellers
- Outsourcing for Large Businesses
- Preparing for College Costs for High School Students
- What News Reporters Should Do in the Digital Age and How to Do It: Examples
- The Transformative Power of Music: How Heavy Metal Impacted My Life
Best Essay Titles for College Students
- The Possible Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence for Humans
- The Potential for Time Travel in Virtual Reality
- What Role Has Mathematics Played in Human History?
- How to Succeed in the Real Estate Industry
- E-Commerce: An Empire of Virtual Businesses Worth Millions of Dollars
- How to Achieve Financial Independence in the Digital Age Without Opening a Real Business
More Creative Titles for Essays
- When getting rewarded for their grades, would kids do better left alone?
- How Does Fake News Impact the Mainstream press?
- Homelessness in Contemporary Society: A Dilemma
- What News Reporters' Best Job Is in the Digital Age and How to Uphold It
- Elon Musk: Brilliant Mind or Insane Person?
- Positives and Negatives of Employing a Smoker
- Do We Employ the Appropriate Student Success Metrics?
Professional Academic Help
Now that you know how to make a good title for an essay, you should also understand that you should approach the task as a process. While composing your essay title, you must condense your whole thesis and point of discussion into a single, concise, yet powerful sentence. If you have time before your deadline, give it some thought and don't hurry.
Don't forget that you can always rely on our professional academic assistance, whether you need a reflection paper , ideas for a strong essay title, or any other academic papers. Consider the following words - write my essay for me - magic keywords for delegating your most complex tasks to our skilled writers!
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How To Title An Essay?
How to title an essay in mla format, what are some good titles for an essay.
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Daniel Parker
is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.
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is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.
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Essay Title: Rules, Tips, Mistakes to Avoid
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Table of contents
- 1 What Makes a Good Title?
- 2.1 Use your essay to develop your topic
- 2.2 Identify keywords and take advantage of them
- 2.3 Use Multiple Titles
- 3.1 MLA Format
- 3.2 APA Format
- 3.3 Chicago Format
- 4 What to Avoid When Writing a Title for an Essay?
- 5 Take into account Your Paper Style
- 6 Types Of Papers and the Best Titles For Them
- 7.1 Questions make Catchy
- 7.2 Describe the Paper in 5 Words
- 7.3 Use One Direct Word
- 7.4 Extract a Sentence from the Paper
- 7.5 Take advantage of Pop-Culture
- 7.6 Put “On” at the beginning
- 7.7 Start with a Verb in “-ing”
- 7.8 Give a Mental Visualization of Your Topic
- 7.9 Modify a Title that was Rejected
- 7.10 Choose 2 Variants That Were Considered and Declined; Then Join Them Together
- 8.1 Why is an essay title important?
- 8.2 Can a title be a question?
- 8.3 How long should the title be?
Good paper titles could be the difference between the audience viewing or ignoring your essays. When chosen carefully, essay titles could well capture the attention of someone who would not typically read the topic. Learning the proper method for titling an article can work wonders in creating an attention-grabbing heading. A well-titled article will also tell readers what to expect. Knowing how to create a topic for an essay that commands the reader’s attention is important. That is why this piece is designed to help you write just that.
What Makes a Good Title?
The importance of a great title cannot be overemphasized in the essay-writing process . And that is where you question yourself – what makes good essay headlines?
- A good title for an essay must be memorable. You want to think up something that stands out as much as possible to capture the audience’s eyes and minds. Remember – your title is the first thing your reader sees.
- Your essay name must possess a near-perfect degree of accuracy. Titling an essay like a clickbait heading could have the viewer on strings at the beginning, but they may not be disposed towards reading it to the end. Even so, it might not leave them with the desired impression.
- A good essay title has to be written in a language the target audience would understand easily. You might want to keep the language of your essay headline simple, but it should reflect as much expertise as the target audience would reasonably expect.
- A proper heading for an essay must be easy to read. The main idea is that your title gives a brief insight into what the audience should expect. Keep it concise and eye-catching, and ensure it is in active voice.
How to Title an Essay?
Having understood the importance of creative essay titles, you also know what features they are supposed to contain. The next item on the agenda is for you to know how to make a title for a write-up. This is not an arbitrary undertaking. It is a multi-step ritual that helps you ensure you are on the right track to connect with your audience using a catchy essay title.
Use your essay to develop your topic
This may seem rather confusing, but it is a very efficient step to follow while coming up with great naming ideas. You should start writing your essay once you have a subject matter identified. By the time you finish writing your essay, you can use the write-up details to construct the most suitable title. It would also give you much more clarity on the subject matter and what the audience wants from it since you would have conducted more research on the issue. As such, your title can be more precise and connected to the paper.
Identify keywords and take advantage of them
Your essay’s title must scream “This is what you want” to the reader. And no matter how fun and memorable it may be, it might not be as successful if it does not capture what the audience is exactly looking for. This is where keywords will work for you. They are terms that would let readers know that your essay is relevant to what is in question.
For instance, imagine trying to research articles on symptoms of pregnancy – but the name you see has nothing like “symptoms” or “pregnancy” in them. They might be catchy essay headers and even end up being related to the search, but they don’t exactly strike you like that is what you seek. You don’t need to stuff your title with key phrases. Just two or three core ones will do the trick.
Use Multiple Titles
Nobody said you have to use just one main topic. Segmenting your paper and sub-titling each makes your essay much more readable.
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Essay Title Formats and Punctuations
It is perfectly fine if you would rather freestyle your essay heading. After all, a little creative license never hurts as long as you craft a good essay title. Though, you might want to play it safer by defining parameters, especially if your essay is formal. In that case, you should opt for an essay title format. These are internationally recognized sets of prescribed guidelines for titling your papers. There are three main essay title styles – the MLA, the APA, and the Chicago.
The rules of MLA style emphasize that your essay topics should be centralized on the page. Perhaps the most important rule of this style is that the title must be written in “title case”. This means every word should begin using capital letters except prepositions, coordinating conjunctions, “to” when it is alongside a verb in its infinitive form, and articles. However, the first and last words must have capital letters, no matter what they are. This style also discourages italicizing, underlining, or placing the topics in quotation marks.
This formatting APA style is particular about the brevity of the title, stipulating a maximum of 12 words. It emphasizes a short and straight-to-the-point without abbreviations or redundancies. A title in this style aims to share as much information with the audience in as few words as possible. It does not encourage the use of figurative words because it is used in technical and professional writing. Thus, expect to see it deployed toward a research paper title and formal articles. It also supports centralizing the title toward the top of the page.
Chicago Format
Like the other two formats, this style is particular about having the title in the title case. However, it gives more leeway and license to the writer than the others. In fact, the Chicago style prescribes no further guidelines beyond title casing.
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What to Avoid When Writing a Title for an Essay?
Developing interesting titles for essays can be a challenge for some. Tips include avoiding negativity and offensive or controversial terms and keeping it professional. Even the cover page could be done properly thanks to a writing service like the APA title page generator, which can also help you write a good title for an essay.
Making a good start means staying positive. Even when the essay topics are dreary, attempt to write less negatively. Good headlines for essays also use appropriate language to attract more possible readers to the paper. Lastly, its image should remain neutral – don’t overshare.
Take into account Your Paper Style
The style of your essay is essential to your topic. Identify and study what kind of essay it is, e.g., an argumentative essay or narrative essay, and ensure that the essay topic reflects it. Essays have tones depending on their kind, the audience, and the subject matter. For instance, academic writing would likely assume a formal tone. Having identified the tone of your essays, you should ensure your essay topics don’t go off-key. It should complement the tone of the essay itself in order to have the desired effect on the readers.
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Types Of Papers and the Best Titles For Them
There are several situations that could involve you writing an essay paper. And depending on the situation or the target of the piece, several kinds of papers exist as well. These may include a narrative paper, expository essay, business paper, and thesis statement in academic writing, among others. Some of the most creative examples of titles include:
Research Paper
The Role of COVID-19 in the Growth of Digital Services
Impacts of Climate Change on Developed Countries
Business Paper
Why Franchising Is the Way for New Small Business Owners
How Digital Services Can Influence the Global Supply Chain
College Essay
The Golden Rule of Wholesome Studentship
Finding Success in My Failures
Reflective Essay
The Time I Met My Mentor
My First Surgery
Personal Statement
My Nine Lives as an Immigrant Student
The Three Horsemen of Ambition
Literary Analysis
The Use of Symbolism in The Pulley
Thematic Preoccupations of Shakespeare’s Othello
Report Titles
Earlier Vaccinations Would Not Have Subsided the Coronavirus Pandemic
Students Want Mixed Dormitories in American Universities
Good Titles for Essays about Yourself
Why I Am the Way I Am
A Letter To the 7-Year-Old Me
Good Titles for Narrative Writing
The Day the World Stood Still
My Perfect Birthday Party
MLA Essay Title Format
The Old Man and the Sea: A Critical Analysis of Ernest Hemingway
Why You Can Do What You Do Without Knowing Who You Are
Argumentative Essay
Are Electric Cars the Solution To Carbon Emissions?
Should Reparations Be Paid To Marginalized Groups?
Compare and Contrast Essay
Left Wing Versus Right Wing: What Ideologies Do We Need?
Good Versus Bad: The Constant Clashes of Morality
Persuasive Essay
Why Dogs Make Better Pets Compared to Cats
Digital Banking: The Peak of Fintech
Scholarship Essay Titles Examples
What Can You Contribute to the Student Community?
Narrate a Defining Experience in Your Life
Nursing Essay
COVID-19 and the Growing Demand for Nursing Staff
Prioritizing Ethical Education in the Nursing Profession
Title The Government’s Role in Poverty Alleviation
Myths and Facts about Tuberculosis
10 Tips to Create an Exceptional Title
There are numerous ways in which a writer can craft a quality naming experience. Unless you use a title generator for an essay , titling an essay is as simple or as hard as the writer makes it. It is often necessary to edit the essay online multiple times. Finding their own style is dependent on the type of essay and the purpose of the writing. In the quest to title an essay, here are some tips for arriving at a really creative title.
Questions make Catchy
Titles Interesting headings for essays can be created by using a cause-and-effect approach. Start considering a common problem and think about what question does that paper answers. You can compose a title out of it.
Describe the Paper in 5 Words
If you were, to sum up the entire paper in 5 words, what words would be chosen? Not only does this unique creation bring some fun to the process, but it can also birth a catchy phrase – which translates to a highly effective title.
Use One Direct Word
Sometimes the best essay title ideas are simpler than we think. For some essay topics, one idiom could be all you need. Though it might not be easy how to come up with one, it may give your research paper an edge over others.
Extract a Sentence from the Paper
It’s usually a good solution to pick the heading after the text is drafted. At this point, there are many title options. Just pick one that sums up your concepts better than the others.
Take advantage of Pop-Culture
Don’t be shy to use something related to pop culture. Titles for papers may definitely contain references to songs, books, or movies as long as they fit the paper topic. This could be especially powerful for college essay titles and other essays for younger readers. You just need to ensure that the audience can recognize it easily.
Put “On” at the beginning
Depending on what you’re writing, this option might be a bit tricky. It works very well for books, songs, or movie reviews. Just name the object of your research paper or article. For example, “On The Importance of Being Earnest.”
Start with a Verb in “-ing”
Especially persuasive essay types can greatly benefit from titles for papers starting like this. Be sure to find a verb straightforward enough to grab the attention.
Give a Mental Visualization of Your Topic
This works wonders when the topic you write about is art-oriented. Even if the mental image brings something that is not seen by most people, it could go far for those that grab it.
Modify a Title that was Rejected
Using old, rejected essay topics to design new ones is usually possible. All it takes is a bit of creativity and a decent name.
Choose 2 Variants That Were Considered and Declined; Then Join Them Together
Although 2 separate entities did not work out, it does not mean that those phrases can’t work together for your new paper. So keep that list of paper titles!
Why is an essay title important?
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How to Title an Essay: Tips and Examples
(Last updated: 5 April 2024)
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Crafting an essay title is like designing the cover of a book – it's the first thing your professors see, setting the stage for what's inside. As such, the title is crucial because it's the reader's first impression. In this guide, we'll explore why a good essay title matters, offer tips to help you learn how to title an essay and provide examples to illustrate which titles work and which don't.
The Importance of a Good Essay Title
The significance of a good essay title cannot be overstated. Beyond its role as a mere label, a compelling title serves as a powerful tool for drawing your professor’s attention. A good title not only encapsulates the essence of the essay but also reflects the author's voice and perspective. It sets the tone for the entire piece, guiding readers in their interpretation and understanding of the content. Moreover, a well-crafted title can enhance the credibility and authority of the essay, signalling that the author has invested thought and care into their work.
How to Write a Good Title for Your Essay
Crafting a good title requires a blend of creativity, precision, and strategic thinking. To create an effective title, consider the following tips:
- Brainstorm Ideas : Begin by brainstorming keywords, phrases, and concepts related to your essay topic. Explore different angles and perspectives that encapsulate the essence of your argument or analysis.
- Consider the Audience : Reflect on your target audience and their interests, preferences, and expectations. Tailor your title to resonate with your intended readership, striking a balance between familiarity and intrigue.
- Capture the Essence : Reports often incorporate tables, charts, graphs, and other visual aids to enhance the presentation of data and facilitate understanding.
- Evoke Emotion or Intrigue : Tap into the emotional or intellectual curiosity of your readers by crafting a title that evokes emotion, prompts reflection, or poses a compelling question. Consider using provocative language, vivid imagery, or rhetorical devices to capture readers' attention.
- Revise and Refine: : Once you've generated potential titles, take time to revise and refine them. Experiment with different word choices, phrasings, and structures until you find a title that resonates and feels cohesive with the content of your essay.
Characteristics of a Good Title
A good title shares several key characteristics:
Descriptive : Clearly communicates the topic or main idea of the essay. Engaging : Captures the reader's attention and sparks curiosity. Concise : Succinctly summarises the content without being overly long or verbose. Relevant : Directly relates to the content and theme of the essay. Original : Avoids clichés and generic phrases. Try to strive for originality and creativity.
Essay Title Examples (Good vs. Bad)
Let's examine additional examples of good and bad essay titles to illustrate these principles:
Good Title : "Exploring Identity: The Intersection of Culture and Self-Perception" Bad Title : "Essay on Identity"
The good title invites readers to explore complex questions surrounding identity and self-perception, fostering curiosity and engagement. In contrast, the bad title lacks specificity and fails to capture the richness and depth of the essay's subject matter.
Good Title : "Breaking Barriers: The Evolution of Women's Rights in the 21st Century" Bad Title : "Essay on Women's Rights"
The good title is engaging and suggests a narrative, while the bad title is a little bland and lacks imagination.
Writing a Catchy Title for Your Essay
To craft a catchy title, consider employing the following strategies:
Wordplay and Alliteration : Incorporate puns, alliteration, or clever wordplay to make your title memorable and attention-grabbing.
Question or Provocation : Pose a thought-provoking question or statement that challenges readers' assumptions or prompts them to reconsider their perspectives.
Use of Imagery and Metaphor : Invoke vivid imagery or metaphorical language that evokes emotion, stimulates the senses, or conveys abstract concepts in concrete terms.
Surprise Element : Introduce an unexpected twist or element of surprise that captures readers' attention and leaves them eager to learn more.
Elevate Your Essay with An Engaging Title
Writing a good title for your essay requires time, skill, and a keen understanding of your subject matter. Crafting an essay title is more than just a formality—it's an art that can set the stage for the narrative that follows. With practice and attention to detail, you'll master the art of essay titling and unleash the full potential of your written creations.
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Essay Writing Guide
How To Title An Essay
Last updated on: Jun 28, 2024
How to Title an Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide for Effective Titles
By: Nova A.
Reviewed By: Chris H.
Published on: Feb 5, 2019
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Are you tired of struggling to create captivating titles for your essays? It can be frustrating to spend hours only to end up with a lackluster title that fails to engage your readers.
But here's the thing: a weak title can significantly impact the success of your essay. It's the first thing your readers see, and it sets the tone for their expectations. A dull or generic title may cause your audience to lose interest before they even start reading.
Luckily, there is a simple yet effective solution to this problem. By following a few key strategies, you can learn how to title an essay that captures attention and piques curiosity.
In this blog, we will guide you through creating engaging essay titles step by step.
Whether you're a student or a writer, these tips will help you to craft titles that make your essays shine.
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On this Page
What Is The Purpose Of An Essay Title?
An essay title serves a crucial purpose in the world of writing. It goes beyond being a formality and plays a strategic role in captivating readers and enhancing the impact of your work.
The purpose of an essay title can be summarized into four key objectives.
- Attention Grabbing:
A creative title instantly grabs the reader's attention, acting as a hook that sparks curiosity. It entices them to explore your essay further.
- Setting Expectations:
An essay title communicates the main theme, subject matter, or argument of your writing. It sets the tone and prepares readers for what lies ahead.
- Creating Interest and Relevance:
A carefully chosen title makes your essay relatable and interesting to your target audience. It also establishes a connection between their interests and your topic.
- Reflecting the Essence:
The title of your essay should reflect its core essence and purpose, acting as a concise representation of the ideas.
What Are The Rules For Essay Titles?
When it comes to creating essay titles, different formatting styles have specific rules and guidelines to follow. In this section, we will explore the rules for essay titles in three commonly used formats: MLA, APA, and the Chicago Manual of Style.
Guidelines for Essay Titles in MLA Format
In MLA format, essay titles have the following rules:
Capitalization
- Capitalize the first and last words of the title.
- Capitalize all principal words, including nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.
- Do not capitalize articles (a, an, the), coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or), or prepositions, unless they are the first or last word of the title.
Italics or Quotation Marks
- Italicize the titles of complete works (books, journals, movies, etc.). Place titles of shorter works (articles, essays, poems) in quotation marks.
Example:
|
Guidelines for Essay Titles in APA Format
In APA format, essay titles have the following rules:
- Capitalize the first word of the title and any subtitles.
- Capitalize all proper nouns.
- Only capitalize the first word after a colon if it begins a subtitle.
- Italicize the titles of longer works (books, journals, movies, etc.).
- Do not use quotation marks for titles.
Guidelines for Essay Titles in Chicago Manual of Style Format
In the Chicago Manual of Style format, essay titles have the following rules:
- Capitalize all nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and subordinating conjunctions.
Italics or Quotation Marks:
- Italicize the titles of larger works (books, journals, movies, etc.).
- Use quotation marks for titles of shorter works (articles, essays, poems).
|
How To Make Your Essay Title Eye Catching
Finding the perfect essay title can be a creative challenge. In this section, we will explore effective strategies for brainstorming your essay title to ensure it captures the essence of your work and engages your readers.
Here's What Your Essay Title Should Include
When brainstorming your essay title, consider including the following elements:
Identify key terms or concepts related to your essay's topic or main argument. These keywords should be relevant, descriptive, and reflective of the content.
- Tone and Style:
Determine the appropriate tone and style for your essay. Consider whether your title should be formal, academic, creative, or catchy, depending on the purpose and audience of your essay.
- Focus and Scope:
Reflect on the main focus and scope of your essay. Consider the specific angle, perspective, or aspect you are exploring in your writing.
- Engaging Language:
Use language that captivates and intrigues readers. Employ strong verbs, vivid adjectives, or thought-provoking phrases to make your title stand out.
Example of an Effective Essay Title: "Unveiling the Hidden Wonders: Exploring the Biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest"
What Not to Include in Your Essay Title
While brainstorming your essay title, it's important to avoid certain elements that may weaken or confuse your title. Consider the following:
- Vague or General Terms:
Avoid using generic terms or phrases that lack specificity. Instead, opt for precise and descriptive language that accurately represents your essay's content.
- Abbreviations or Acronyms:
Unless widely recognized, avoid using abbreviations or acronyms that may confuse readers. Aim for clarity and ensure that your title can be easily understood by a broad audience.
- Excessive Length:
Keep your title concise and avoid unnecessary wordiness. A long, convoluted title may overwhelm readers and fail to capture their attention.
- Clichés or Overused Phrases:
Steer clear of clichés or overused phrases that may make your title appear unoriginal or uninspiring. Strive for creativity and uniqueness to make your title memorable.
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Essay title examples
Here are three examples of essay titles for each of the given topics:
How to Title an Essay for College
"From Dreams to Reality: Navigating the Path to College Success" "Unveiling the Future: Crafting an Essay Title that Defines Your College Journey" "Beyond the Application: The Power of a Compelling College Essay Title"
How to Title an Essay about a Book
"Unveiling the Literary Tapestry: Analyzing [Book Title] through an Engaging Essay Title" "Pages of Wisdom: Crafting an Essay Title that Unveils the Depths of [Book Title]" "Beyond the Cover: Exploring the Themes of [Book Title] through an Evocative Essay Title"
How to Title an Essay for a Scholarship
"Dreams Rewarded: Crafting an Essay Title that Shines for Scholarship Success" "Unveiling Potential: Illuminating Your Journey to Scholarship with an Impactful Title" "Beyond the Application: The Art of Composing a Compelling Scholarship Essay Title"
How to Title an Essay about Yourself
"Unveiling the Layers: Crafting a Reflective Essay Title that Defines Me" "The Journey Within Exploring Identity through an Introspective Essay Title" "Beyond the Mirror: Unraveling My Story through a Captivating Essay Title"
Essay Title Examples: Bad vs Good
Here are examples of bad and good essay titles to illustrate the difference:
Bad Essay Title:
"Essay about Cats"
This title is too vague and lacks creativity. It does not give any indication of the specific focus or purpose of the essay.
Good Essay Title:
"Paws and Purrs: Exploring the Mysterious Charms of Domestic Cats"
This title is more engaging and intriguing. It captures the attention of the reader by using playful language.
"Climate Change"
This title is overly broad and does not provide any insight into the specific aspect of climate change that the essay will address.
"Melting Point: Understanding the Devastating Impacts of Arctic Ice Loss on Global Climate"
This title is specific and highlights the focus of the essay: the connection between Arctic ice loss and the broader issue of global climate change. It indicates a deeper exploration of the subject matter.
"My Trip to Europe"
This title is generic and lacks creativity. It fails to convey any unique perspective or aspect of the trip.
Good Essay Title:
"Wanderlust Unleashed: A Journey through Europe's Enchanting Landscapes and Timeless Culture"
This title is more engaging and captures the essence of the essay. It suggests a personal narrative infused with the exploration of Europe's diverse landscapes.
4 Tips While Choosing an Essay Title
Choosing the right essay title is essential for capturing the interest of your readers and accurately representing your work.
In this section, we will provide four valuable tips to consider when creating a title for your essay.
Reflect the Content:
Ensure that your essay title accurately reflects the main theme and tone of your essay. It should provide a clear indication of what readers can expect to find in your writing.
Avoid misleading or ambiguous titles that may confuse or disappoint your audience.
Example: If your essay explores the impact of social media on society, a suitable title could be
"The Digital Revolution: Unraveling the Influence of Social Media on Modern Society."
Engage and Intrigue:
Craft a title that captivates your readers and piques their curiosity. Use strong verbs, and catchy hooks, to make your title stand out from the crowd. Aim to evoke an emotional response or generate interest in your topic.
Example: Instead of a generic title like "The Importance of Exercise," opt for a more engaging title such as
"Unleashing the Power Within How Exercise Transforms Mind, Body, and Soul."
Keep it Concise:
Keep your title concise and avoid excessive wordiness. A long and convoluted title may confuse or overwhelm readers.
Aim for clarity and brevity, while still capturing the essence of your essay. Shorter titles are often more memorable and impactful.
Consider Your Audience:
Take into account the target audience for your essay. Consider their interests, knowledge level, and expectations. Tailor your title to resonate with your specific readership.
A title that speaks directly to your audience's needs and desires will be more effective in capturing their attention.
Example: If your essay targets parents seeking parenting advice, a relevant title could be
"Raising Resilient Kids: Nurturing Strength and Confidence in Today's Challenging World."
Choosing the perfect essay title is a critical step in creating a captivating and impactful piece of writing.
It serves as a gateway to your essay, capturing the attention of your readers and setting the tone for what lies ahead.
By following the four tips outlined in this blog, you can craft a title that reflects your essay's content, engages your audience, and leaves a lasting impression. Start your essay off on the right foot with a title that shines boldly and confidently.
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Our team of expert writers is here to help you with all your essay needs. Whether you're looking for essay writing, editing, or proofreading services, we've got you covered.
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As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
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Well, neither does your teacher, professor, or boss. The difference is that they don’t have a choice and have to. A good title helps you stand out, and that’s part of the reason why a title is so important. Just knowing the right way to title an essay can boost your grades!
A good title has to grab the reader’s attention. It’s the first thing someone sees, so think of it as your first opportunity to impress. The title needs to be catchy but focused on the content of your essay. A good title is simple yet informative. Sounds tough? Don’t worry, this article will cover all you need to know about how to title an essay perfectly.
How to Choose a Good Title for an Essay
A good title makes a reader think “Yes! I want to read the rest of this!” but a title also has to accurately reflect the content of the paper. It’s not just students, one of the differences between an average writer and an expert is how well they can write a title. If you want to work in social media, advertising, or any kind of content writing, learning how to write a title for an essay is an essential skill to have.
There are two main components of a good essay title.
Catchy Hook
Anyone that’s ever written anything knows that having a catchy hook in your introduction is a requirement, but most people forget that you can include a hook in the title itself. Remember, you want to stand out and differentiate yourself from the competition.
There are a few places to hunt for keywords to fit into your title. The essay prompt or research question is a good place to start but using words in your thesis statement ensures that your topic accurately reflects the main point of your essay. The use of keywords like this ensures that your title reflects what the essay is about. You’ll know you’ve found the right keywords if they seem like two or three word summaries of the main point of your essay.
How to Come up With a Title for an Essay
How to create a title for an essay in a way that makes it stand out from the crowd requires creativity, hard work, and time. That may seem like a lot just for a title, but it’s worth it. Follow these bits of advice and craft the perfect title!
Write your title at the end
Just because the title is the first thing someone reads doesn’t make it the first thing you should write! Coming up with a good title is tough and requires a deep understanding of the content of the paper. That means it’s usually better to write the title at the end after you’re done with a couple of drafts of your paper.
Though it’s good to write according to a plan, often, new thoughts can take your essay in an unexpected direction, this is another reason why its good to start with a working title as a placeholder and go back to write the final title at the end.
Use your thesis
A good title hints at what the thesis statement will be. A thesis statement is a summary of the main argument and purpose of the paper, so use your thesis statement as a source of inspiration for your title. This makes sure that your title has predictive power since it’s drawn from the thesis statement itself.
Simple but not too simple
There is no rule about how long a good title should be - there are benefits to short titles and benefits to long titles. Short titles are direct and clear and better suited for simpler, straightforward essays. Longer titles may be more appropriate for complex or very specific essays. No matter what though, make sure that your titles are easy to understand.
Make sure your title is specific
A title that’s too general may seem like it’s describing your essay, but it isn’t. Is your essay just about “Mobile Gaming in 2020” or is it about “The Impact of Coronavirus Lockdowns on the FTP Mobile Game Industry”? The first title may be short and to the point, but it doesn’t give enough specific information about the content of the essay. Remember, a good title hints at what the essay is going to be about, but also intrigues the reader. Generic and broad titles don’t do that.
Your title needs to be believable
Just because a lot of titles you see on the internet are clickbait, doesn’t mean that you need to write an over the top title as well. Especially if you’re writing a paper for academia, make sure your title doesn’t over-promise what you’re going to cover in the essay.
Write your title in the active voice
Write your title in the active voice, that is, the subject acts upon the verb rather than the subject receives a verb's action. Writing in the active voice uses fewer words and is more concise and engaging - perfect for writing a catchy title.
Rewrite famous movies, books, quotes, phrases, quotations, etc.
Creativity is an important element of coming up with a catchy title. If you can find a famous phrase that you can rework into the perfect title for your essay, go for it! For example, a paper about mitosis and meiosis (cell division) can be titled “Live Long and Prosper”.
Match the style and tone of your essay
It wouldn’t make sense to have an amusing title for an essay about a refugee crisis. Make sure that your title reflects the tone of your essay. Some titles work better depending on the essay style. For example, the title of a persuasive essay would be different than the title of a reflective essay.
Who’s the audience?
Of course, how you title an essay depends on who you’re writing it for. A blog post targeted towards your friends or prospective followers is going to have a different title than an essay for your stuffy old history teacher. Your young science teacher who loves memes and blows up things in class might appreciate a different type of title. A university application essay usually needs to be more formal. Try and find out as much as you can about who is going to read your essay and cater both your essay and title to them.
To use or not to use: Colons in essay titles
Using a colon to separate an essay title into two sections used to be the norm. It became so common in fact, that now they are considered cliche. There may be a few occasions when using a colon is just perfect, but avoid overusing it. The best way to use a colon is by inserting a creative phrase or clever quote behind the colon. For example, the title of this section.
Use evocative imagery
An easy way to make your title catchy is by using imagery. If you can make the reader imagine something in their mind based on your title, you’re starting off with a win. “Stepping into the void: The first spacewalk” is a much better title than simply “The first spacewalk.
These tips should help you answer how to come up with an essay title!
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Common Titling Mistakes
The deadline is racing towards you and you still don’t have a title! After panicking and writing whatever pops into your head, check to make sure you don’t do any of the following.
- Either bold your title or underline it - Doing both is overkill and rather than stressing the title, makes it look cluttered and messy.
- Don’t make your title too short - A good title should let the reader predict what the essay is going to be about.
- Don’t make your title too long.- A long title might give more information about the essay, but it can be cluttered and overloaded with dense information.
- Don’t use slang, jargon, or abbreviations - You want to make sure that the title is clear. If the teacher has to look up a word in your title, you’re starting off badly.
- Don’t get too personal - Your title should entice the reader. Whatever strong arguments you want to make should be made in the body of the essay.
Make sure your title reflects the content of the essay - This often happens when the title is written first and then the essay. Start with a placeholder title and after the essay is done, work on creating a title that accurately reflects the main purpose of the essay.
Improved Essay Titles
You might have an idea about what the title should be as you’re working on your essay, but there are still things to watch out for. Sometimes the perfect title pops into your head fully formed, but more often than not, a good title takes thought, effort, time, and several rewrites. Make sure to set aside some time just to work on the title.
An Exploration of the Best Way to Spend Time During Lockdown Based on Personal Experience
This title might do a good job of explaining what the essay is about but it’s too long and wordy.
Better title: My Lockdown Chronicles: What to do With Unexpected Free Time
An Analysis of Avengers: Endgame
This title is too broad. The topic is interesting but there’s no hook to engage the reader.
Better title: Why Avengers: Endgame is Modern Storytelling at its Best
Badly Breaking the myths about drug overdose
This title seems forced. The topic is very serious, so trying to use a pun in the title can come across as incongruent. It also depends on the reader knowing the show Breaking Bad and making the connection. Depending on the audience, this might be the perfect title though, so make sure to consider your audience when writing and titling an essay.
Better Title: An Analysis of Drug Overdose Deaths in the 2010s
The Best Colorful Birds
This title doesn’t give any specific information or talk about what the reader can expect to learn from the essay.
Better Title: Why Birds of Paradise Evolved to Become the Brightest Birds
Did you like our inspiring Essay Title Guide?
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Essay Title Ideas
Catchy essay title examples
A catchy title can start your reader off intrigued, entertained, and overall, just in a positive state of mind. That’s a good way to get noticed and boost your grade on the essay! Here are some examples of attention-grabbing essay titles.
Underage Romance: An Analysis of the Ages of William Shakespeare’s Characters
An Alien Among Us: What if Superman Was Real?
The Day the Planet Caught a Virus
The Rise and Fall of the Alpha Male
Memes Before the Internet
College Essay Title examples
When answering a college essay, make sure you read and follow the instruction carefully. Not following the often very strict requirements is. Generally speaking the tone of the essay, and therefore the title should be more serious but don’t be afraid to let your personality come through. Have a look at these examples.
Why Building Houses in a Third World Country was Unsatisfying
The Daily Struggles of an International Student
Energy Equals MC Hammer: My First Day of Dance Class
A Showdown Between William Shakespeare and Hamilton
Mahatma Gandhi’s Disobedience Without Violence
Argumentative Essay Title Examples
An argumentative essay is an opportunity to convince the reader about your view on a topic. Since the goal of an argumentative essay is to make an argument using facts, research, and logic, your title should state your position on the issue. These examples should steer you in the right direction.
Artificial Intelligence Will Not Matrix Humanity
The Best Soup Is Your Grandmother’s
Oh, the Humanity: Why the Death Penalty Should Be Abolished
Scientific Backing for the Benefits of Video Games
Trial and Error: Better Than the Scientific Method?
Persuasive Essay Title Examples
A persuasive essay appeals to emotions to influence the reader. The main difference between an argumentative essay and a persuasive essay is that an argumentative essay uses facts and research while a persuasive essay relies on emotional appeals. How do these title examples make you feel?
A Glamorous Path to Self Hatred: Modern Beauty Standards
Surreptitious Racism and Why It’s More Difficult to Erase
Saving the Planet, One Tree at a Time
The Natural Way to Heal: Ayurvedic Medicine
Testing the Uneducated: Medical Testing in Third World Countries
Narrative Essay Title Examples
Narrative essays can be thought of as short stories. They ask a writer to share an experience clearly and concisely while making a clear point. The titles of these essays can be more playful and ambiguous. Take a look at some examples.
The Pleasure of Discovering an Amazing New Anime
A Missed Opportunity: Why I Didn’t Attend My Uncle’s Funeral
When my Teacher Became a Father Figure
How Being Bullied Made Me a Kinder Adult
Bloody Victory: My First Mixed Martial Arts Win
Research Paper Title Examples
Research papers test your ability to find credible sources and synthesize complex information into a well-structured format. These are almost exclusively academic, and as such, have formal titles. The first versions of these titles often end up being very long, so spend some time whittling away any extra information. Take a look at the examples below.
The Effects of Caffeine on Attention and Sleep
Experimental Evidence for the Use of Music in Boosting Agricultural Yields
Not Stinky: Bathing Culture in Ancient China
The Impact of Western Media on 13 to 30-Year-Olds in Asia
The Marvel Cinematic Universe: A Guide on How to Plan Ahead
English Essay Titles Examples
Writing a title for an English essay doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, if you’re studying literature, you should take the opportunity to flex your creative writing skills. Don’t overdo it though! Titles still need to be predictive, comprehensible, and engaging. Examples down below.
Akala: A Modern Day Shakespeare
Why We’re Already Living in the Brave New World
The Impact of Foreign Writers on Modern English Literature
The Terrifying Origins of Folk Tales
The Times They Are a-Changing: Analyzing Mark Twain’s Writings in 2019
Quick Recap
A great title piques the interest of the reader and starts their journey at a high point. Whether it’s online or for school, you have to find a way to stand out from the very beginning. A good title takes time and effort, but coming up with the perfect title can also be fun, and it absolutely makes a difference to your grade.
Ask these questions to make sure that your title is good.
- Does the title predict what the paper is about?
- Does the title use keywords effectively?
- Does the title accurately reflect the tone of the essay?
- Is the title appropriate for the audience?
- Is the title interesting?
Remember these tips when brainstorming an essay title.
- Think of an interesting hook
- Use keywords (Your thesis is a good place to look)
- Write your title after you’ve written the essay, not before
- Simple but not too simple, it should be predictive
- Use as few words as possible while being informative and interesting
- Keep it believable
- Match the tone and style of your essay
- Think about the audience
- Use imagery
- Rework a popular phrase
- Use active voice
- Avoid unnecessary words and jargon
- Avoid abbreviations
The title of your essay can make or break your grade, so it's important to choose one that is attention-grabbing and relevant to your topic. If you're struggling to come up with a good title, don't worry! Studyfy has compiled a list of over 300 essay topics to inspire you. And if you still need help with your essay, including proofreading and editing, or if you need to " pay someone to do my essay ", Studyfy's team of experts is always available to help. They offer dissertation writing services , research paper service , and even have an admission essay writer to help you get into your dream school. Just reach out to them for all your academic needs!
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Forging good titles in academic writing
Published on March 20, 2015 by Shane Bryson . Revised on July 23, 2023.
The title is the first thing your reader will see, and most readers will make their first judgements of your work based on it. For this reason, it’s important to think about your titles carefully.
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Table of contents
Informative, striking, appropriate, title templates, writing effective headings, other interesting articles, informative title.
Your title should, above all else, convey the topic of your paper. In other words, no matter how witty, clever, original, or otherwise appealing your title may be, it fails if it is not informative.
Decide whether you’ve given a sense of the paper’s topic and claims by comparing your title’s content to the most important aspect(s) of your dissertation statement or hypothesis and conclusions.
Striking title
A striking title is one that entices your audience to read, so know your audience’s tastes.
The analogy of cultivating sexual attraction in a prospective mate is useful here: some audiences will be enticed by a title’s edginess (as with, for example, V. Alneng’s “‘What the Fuck is a Vietnam?’ Touristic Phantasms and the Popcolonization of [the] Vietnam [War],” published in Critique on Anthropology ); others will almost always prefer a more straightforward title (as with J.C. Henderson’s “War as a tourist attraction: The case of Vietnam,” published in the International Journal of Tourism Research ).
You should be able to gauge how edgy your title can be by the tone of your discipline or the publication you’re submitting to, and your main concern should be forming a title that appeals to your readers’ specific tastes.
Consider also that a title that highlights the paper’s fresh insights will often be striking.
An endocrinologist, for example, might become very excited upon seeing the collaboratively authored article “Comparison of the effects on glycaemic control and β-cell function in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients of treatment with exenatide, insulin or pioglitazone: A multicentre randomized parallel-group trial,” published in 2015 in the Journal of Internal Medicine .
This rather long title is more acceptable in the sciences, where what readers tend to find provocative in a title is the degree to which it reveals the paper’s specifics.
Appropriate title
Ensuring that your title is appropriate in a way of making sure not only that your audience understands it, but also that its appeal contributes to its meaning. To make sure the title will be understood, you need to consider how familiar your research topic will be to your audience.
In an academic essay, you can use highly technical terms in your title, but generally avoid terms that the average well-read person in your discipline might not know.
In any writing that has a broad audience, titles need to avoid language that is too sophisticated; a news article, for example, should be easily understood by all.
As a second consideration of appropriateness, make sure that your title does not entice without substance.
The title of Alneng’s paper, for example, does not use “fuck” merely to shock and therefore entice the reader; the uncommon use of a swearword here helps convey the topic of the article: more or less vulgar representations of Vietnam.
The same is true for other striking titles, such as Nancy Tuana’s “Coming to Understand: Orgasm and the Epistemology of Ignorance,” published in Hypatia .
The title’s sexually charged play on words (“coming to understand”) hooks the audience, but is not merely a hook. The pun is directly relevant to the essay’s argument, which is that sexual pleasure offers an important form of knowledge.
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- Use key terms. Find words that your audience can easily identify as markers of the topic matter. These will include, for example, terms that convey the field of research, central concepts, or subjects of study.
- Identify the context (sometimes called “the location”). By context, I mean the source or the setting of the discussion, depending on discipline. In a history paper this might be a certain century or era; in literary studies a certain book or author; and in the sciences an organism or compound.
The following is a list of title formats, with examples of each. I’ve given the names of the publications in brackets to give a sense of how different disciplines treat titles.
Note that these are not mutually exclusive patterns (i.e. it’s possible to have various combinations; e.g. General & interesting: Informative & specific). Note also that this is not meant to be an exhaustive list.
- Striking: Informative – The Specter of Wall Street: “Bartleby, the Scrivener” and the Language of Commodities ( American Literature )
- Informative: Striking – Carbon capture and storage: How green can black be? ( Science )
- General: Specific – The issues of the sixties: An exploratory study in the dynamics of public opinion ( Public Opinion Quarterly )
- “Quotation”: Discussion (social studies) – “I’d rather not talk about it”: Adolescents’ and young adults’ use of topic avoidance in stepfamilies ( Journal of Applied Communication Research )
- “Quotation”: Discussion (literary studies) – “I Would Prefer Not To”: Giorgio Agamben, Bartleby and the Potentiality of the Law ( Law and Critique )
- Simple and precise – Methodological issues in the use of Tsimshian oral Traditions (Adawx) in Archaeology ( Canadian Journal of Archaeology )
- Topic: Method – Mortality in sleep apnea patients: A multivariate analysis of risk factors ( Sleep )
- Topic: Significance – LC3 binds externalized cardiolipin on injured mitochondria to signal mitophagy in neurons: Implications for Parkinson disease ( Autophagy )
- Technical and very specific – Single-shot quantum nondemolition measurement of a quantum-dot electron spin using cavity exciton-polaritons ( Physical Review )
Although similar, headings are not the same as titles. Headings head paragraphs and help structure a document. Effective headings make your paper easily scannable.
Common high level headings in dissertations and research papers are “Methods”, “Research results”, and “Discussion”. Lower level headings are often more descriptive.
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A title is the first thing that your readers will interact with. So, it should be something interesting and worth paying attention to.
Coming up with an interesting title while writing an essay can be the most difficult and sometimes frustrating task. The best essay titles are those that are both creative and informative.
If you have no idea how to come up with the best title for your essay, this article will help you. Here, we will discuss the key elements for titling your essay and some examples of titles for your help.
So, let’s start with the blog!
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- 1. Why is it Important to Have a Good Essay Title?
- 2. What are the Basic Components of an Essay Title?
- 3. How To Make A Good Title For An Essay?
- 4. Essay Titles in Different Formats
- 5. Additional Tips To Create a Good Essay Title
- 6. Dos and Don'ts for Essay Titles
- 7. Attention Grabbing Essay Title Ideas
Why is it Important to Have a Good Essay Title?
A great essay title is very important, and it can make or break the overall quality of your essay.
The reason is pretty simple: the title you choose for your essay is the first thing that will decide if your readers will continue reading your paper or not.
That’s why the choice of words and how you create a title is very important. If you are thinking the content of your essay is what matters, then you are wrong. To get a good grade and impress your teacher, every part of the paper plays an important role.
Moreover, creating a title that convinces people to read your essay allows you to showcase your knowledge and writing skills.
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What are the Basic Components of an Essay Title?
There are different types of essays , and each essay has a specific structure that can be followed for writing a well-written paper. Creating an essay title has it is own method, too.
Below, you can find the main components of an essay title.
- The Catchy Hook: The hook introduces the topic in the most interesting and creative way.
- Topic Keywords: It is the ‘what’ question of your essay. This component of an essay title determines the concept that you will discuss in your essay.
- Focus Keywords: It is the ‘when’ and ‘where’ question of your essay. It provides more information about the headline and makes it more professional.
Characteristics of a Good Essay Title
Here are the characteristics of a good essay title:
- Clear and Concise: Directly conveys the main topic or argument.
- Engaging: Captures the reader’s interest and curiosity.
- Relevant: Reflects the essay’s content accurately.
- Specific: Provides enough detail to inform the reader about the essay’s focus.
- Descriptive: Uses keywords that describe the main points or themes.
- Unique: Stands out and avoids being too generic.
- Informative: Gives a hint of the essay's thesis or main idea.
- Proper Length: Neither too long nor too short, usually between 5-10 words.
- Balanced: Combines creativity with clarity.
- Consistent: Matches the tone and style of the essay
How To Make A Good Title For An Essay?
There are a few codes that you should keep in mind when titling an essay.
#1 Write Essay First, Title in the Last
One effective approach is to complete your entire essay first and then tackle the title last. This method allows you to gain a comprehensive understanding of what would resonate with your readers.
#2 Utilize Your Thesis
Your thesis statement , typically found in your essay introduction , can be a goldmine for title inspiration. Reworking it can help you come up with a compelling and relevant essay title.
#3 Take into Account the Tone of Your Paper
Consider the tone of your essay, as it significantly influences the title's choice. For serious topics, maintain a serious and appropriate tone in your title.
#4 Use Relevant Keywords
Incorporate two to three relevant keywords within your title. These keywords should reflect the core themes of your essay and help potential readers find your work.
Essay Titles in Different Formats
When titling an essay in different formats, it's important to follow the specific guidelines and formatting requirements of the style guide you are using. Below, you can find the basic guidelines for titling an essay for each essay format .
Essay Title APA Format
Let's see what an APA title should include:
- The title should be centered but not in bold or italics.
- Use title case for the title.
- Capitalize the first word of the title and any subtitles, as well as any major words within the title (e.g., The Psychology of Motivation: Understanding Human Behavior).
- Use a 12-point Times New Roman or Arial font.
The Impact of Climate Change on Global Biodiversity
Essay Title MLA Format
Here is what an MLA paper title should include:
- Title should be centered.
- Use title case, which means capitalizing the first and last words of the title and all major words in between (e.g., The Art of Writing: Crafting Engaging Essays).
- Do not underline, italicize, or use quotation marks for the title.
- It's common to use a 12-point Times New Roman font.
Exploring the Themes in Shakespeare's Sonnets: Love, Time, and Beauty
Essay Title Chicago Format
Chicago style offers two options for formatting titles: headline-style and sentence-style.
- Headline style: The title is in the title case and is centered. Major words are capitalized.
Example: The Decline of the Roman Empire: A Historical Analysis
- Sentence style: The title is in sentence case (only the first word and proper nouns are capitalized). It is also centered. Use a 12-point Times New Roman or similar font.
Example: The decline of the Roman Empire: a historical analysis
MLA Format for a Book or Film Title Within the Essay
So, how to write a title of a book in an essay? If your essay discusses a book or film title, you would follow MLA formatting for titles within the essay. Enclose the title in double quotation marks.
Example: "The Catcher in the Rye": A Study of Adolescent Alienation
AMA Format (American Medical Association)
- The title should be centered.
- Use title case, with the first letter of major words capitalized (e.g., The Role of Genetics in Disease Prevention).
- Do not use bold, italics, or quotation marks.
- Use a 12-point Times New Roman font.
Example: The Impact of Nutrition on Cardiovascular Health
Additional Tips To Create a Good Essay Title
Here are additional rules and tips for creating a good title, summarized and rewritten in simpler language:
- Reflect the Theme: Make sure your title reflects the main idea of your essay. It should give readers a good idea of what your essay is about.
- Use Title Case: Capitalize the first letter of every word in your title, except for small words like pronouns (e.g., "it," "they"), articles (e.g., "a," "an," "the"), prepositions (e.g., "in," "on," "at"), and conjunctions (e.g., "and," "but"). These small words are not capitalized unless they are the first word in the title.
- Avoid Underlining: Don't underline your title. Bold text is usually sufficient to emphasize the title. Some experts suggest that if you really want to underline it, don't bold it at the same time to avoid overemphasis.
- Using a Colon: If you decide to use a colon in your title, remember to follow the rules. A colon is used to separate two interesting parts of the title.
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Dos and Don'ts for Essay Titles
Look at the dos and don'ts below and follow to create a strong title for your essay.
Include relevant keywords | Avoid vague terms that don’t specify the essay’s focus |
Use phrases that tell the reader what to expect | Don’t use overly complex or technical jargon that might confuse readers |
Incorporate a catchy phrase or figurative language when appropriate | Stay away from cliches or overused phrases |
Ensure the title is clear and specific | Avoid being too general or broad |
Match the tone of the essay | Don’t use an informal tone for a formal essay or vice versa |
Be concise, usually between 5-10 words | Don’t make the title excessively long or wordy |
Reframe negative positions with neutral or positive words | Avoid negative or controversial language that could offend readers |
Use titles that preview the essay’s content accurately | Don’t mislead the reader with an inaccurate title |
Write down multiple title options to choose the best one | Don’t settle on the first title that comes to mind without considering alternatives |
Consider the essay’s thesis or main idea when crafting the title | Don’t create a title that doesn’t reflect the essay’s main argument or purpose |
Here are some good and bad essay titles:
![how to make a title for essay Good and Bad Essay Titles - MyPerfectWords.com](https://assets.myperfectwords.com/blog/essay-writing-guide/how-to-title-an-essay/good-and-bad-essay-titles-mpw.jpg)
Attention Grabbing Essay Title Ideas
Here is a list of titles for different types of essays to get you inspired.
Argumentative Essay Titles
- The Ethics of Genetic Engineering: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility
- Should College Education Be Free for All?
- Impact of Social Media on Youth: Boon or Bane?
- Debunking Myths About Climate Change: The Scientific Evidence
- Is Social Media Addiction Real? Exploring the Psychological Effects
Personal Essay Titles
- Finding My Voice: A Journey of Self-Discovery
- Lessons from the Playground: Growing Up with Siblings
- Embracing Change: My Transition to a New Country
- Through the Lens: Capturing Life's Moments
- Unexpected Connections: Friendship Beyond Borders
Analytical Essay Titles
- Exploring Symbolism in "The Great Gatsby"
- The Psychological Depth of Shakespeare's Hamlet
- Analyzing Economic Inequality in Modern Society
- The Evolution of Feminism in Literature
- Understanding the Impact of AI on Job Markets
Persuasive Essay Titles
- Implementing Mandatory Recycling Programs: A Sustainable Solution
- Banning Single-Use Plastics: Protecting Our Oceans
- The Importance of Mental Health Education in Schools
- Promoting Renewable Energy: Investing in Our Future
- Why Animal Testing Should Be Banned: Ethical Considerations
Compare-and-Contrast Essay Titles
- A Tale of Two Cities: Contrasting Urban Development in New York and Tokyo
- Comparing Classical and Operant Conditioning in Psychology
- Cultural Traditions: Contrasting Marriage Practices in East and West
- The Artistic Styles of Picasso and Van Gogh: A Comparative Analysis
- Comparing Different Approaches to Healthcare Systems Around the World
College Application Essay Titles
- My Journey to Studying Astrophysics
- Overcoming Challenges in Pursuit of Education
- Diversity in Perspective: Embracing My Multicultural Identity
- The Power of Volunteerism: Impacting Communities Through Service
- How I Plan to Make a Difference
Essay About Yourself Titles Examples
- My Journey to Becoming a Writer
- Overcoming Challenges: My Personal Story
- A Glimpse into My World
- Lessons I've Learned from Traveling
- My Passion for Music and Its Influence on My Life
College Essay Titles Examples
- The Role of Genetics in Personal Identity
- Sustainability Practices in Urban Farming
- The Psychological Effects of Solitude
- Innovations in Renewable Energy Technology
- The Impact of Virtual Learning on Student Engagement
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University Essay Titles Examples
- The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems
- Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare
- The Influence of Social Media on Youth Culture
- Economic Implications of Renewable Energy Adoption
- The Evolution of Human Rights in International Law
Short Essay Titles Examples
- The Art of Mindful Eating
- Exploring Ancient Mythologies
- The Rise of E-commerce in Modern Society
- Understanding Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Ability to Change
- The Influence of Literature on Society
Hopefully, now you understand how to title an essay in the best way possible. Refer to the above guidelines before you begin the writing process.
However, you can also get help from our essay writing company if you don’t know how to title an essay. Professional essay writers at MyPerfectWords.com can help you write a creative title or even the whole essay from scratch for you.
Feel free to contact our paper writer online anytime and get the best essay writing help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do i title a topic.
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When titling a topic, consider using keywords that accurately reflect the subject matter. The title should be clear, concise, and relevant to the content it represents.
Avoid overly vague or general titles that might mislead the reader.
How should I select a topic name?
When selecting a topic name, choose something that interests you and aligns with the purpose of your writing. It should be specific enough to provide a clear direction for your essay or research, yet broad enough to allow for meaningful exploration.
What is the best essay starter?
The best way to start an essay is with an engaging hook that captures the reader's attention. This could be a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic, a vivid description, or a relevant quote. The goal is to draw the reader in and establish the tone and direction of your essay from the outset.
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How To Write An Essay
How To Title An Essay
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Learn How to Title an Essay Like a Professional Writer
14 min read
Published on: Mar 1, 2023
Last updated on: Jul 23, 2024
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A title is the one thing that makes your essay and all academic papers impressive. This is because it is the first thing that a reader looks at and decides whether to give your essay a shot or not.
Naturally, things with amusing and interesting titles tend to be more read-worthy. A right and accurate title can either make your essay a success or a complete disaster.
It might sound easy to give a title to your essay, but it can be daunting in reality. Creating a title is an art, and not everybody knows how to do it.
This writing guide is provided to know how important it is to give a correct title to your writing and polish your writing skills.
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What is an Essay Title
An essay title is the name or label given to an essay, which provides a brief summary of the main topic or theme of the essay.
It should be catchy, informative, and relevant to the content of the essay, while also giving readers an idea of what to expect from the writing.
A good essay title should capture the reader's attention and make them interested in reading the essay.
Purpose and Importance of Essay Title
A title holds great importance in essay writing. It can easily make or break the quality of your work.
Choosing a title that interests the audience and motivates them to read your essay. This is because they are intrigued, it serves as fertile land to present your knowledge, ideas, writing skills, and critical thinking.
Qualities of an Essay Title
When coming up with the topic or title for your essays, keep in mind that it should contain the following qualities:
- Eye-catching and unique: The title should be eye-catching and unique to grab the reader's attention.
- Based on facts: A good title is always believable and based on facts. Especially for writing essay types and papers that stand on facts and logic should have believable titles.
- Audience-appropriate: Readability is key. Using fancy and bombastic vocabulary that is not common for the audience will affect the readership.
- Tone: A great essay title is always written in an active voice.
- Brief and Short: The title should be brief and to the point. Avoid dragging titles into long sentences.
- To-the-Point: An essay title should be accurate and clearly present the main theme of the essay. This will allow the reader to know what to expect from the document.
Components of an Essay Title
Just as all formal writings have an outline to follow, a good essay title is constructed using a formula as well. Keep in mind that the shorter, the better. A title must not exceed 10 to 12 words.
The components of an essay title include
- An attention-grabbing and catchy hook
- Tone sets the overall mood or attitude conveyed by the title.
- The focus keyword - the "where" and "when" in your essay.
Once you know the importance and elements of an essay title, you are more likely to create a better title.
How to Title an Essay?
Almost all essay writers find it tricky to make an appropriate title for their essays. However, writing a title is not only based on good writing skills. You need to know the basics of creating it.
A good and effective essay title can be created by taking the following steps:
1. First Write an Essay
It will be extremely beneficial and easy to create a title once you have written an entire essay.
After writing your essay, you will be clear about what title suits your content the most. Complete your essay and then start reading it.
This will give you a clearer picture of how to address the essay properly.
Deciding on a topic or a title can be time taking. Another advantage of writing a title at the end is that it saves a lot of your time.
Also, the wrong topic makes it difficult for you to choose the best essay title.
Struggling with getting started with your essay? Check out this helpful guide on how to write an essay !
2. Use your Thesis Statement
There is another reason you should leave your title for an end. An effective title provides a reason for the readers to read your essay. The best part to find a reason is in the thesis statement in the introduction of your essay.
You can always get a title from a thesis statement or by using a part of that argument in the title.
3. Popular Phrases
Catchphrases and cliches that go with the theme of your essay can be used as the titles as well. When popular phrases are appropriate and interesting, they make effective puns.
Play with the cliches and twist them to create something of your own. Be creative and innovative for your titles as much as you can.
4. Consider the Tone
Another trick to creating an effective title for your essay is to consider the essay's tone and come up with something related to it.
If the tone and subject of your essay are serious and sad, never make the mistake of addressing your title in an informal and fun way.
Do not try to go off the wall in such cases. The tone of your essay and the title have a strong connection to a good essay.
5. Use a Central Idea or a Quote
It is not mandatory but an easy way to create a title that uses a central idea. You can use a quote as the title of your essay topic.
If the purpose is served correctly, even song lyrics work the best sometimes.
6. Summary in Three Words
The most common and basic technique is to get a title from the summary of your essay.
A writer can summarize the entire essay or the central idea and thesis statement in three words and write a title.
This can be a title by putting it in a headline, inserting a colon, and stating the purpose of your essay.
7. Movie Titles in an Essay
A movie title can also be used as a title in an essay.
There are some basic ways to do that. A writer can highlight the title, use a capital letter for the first letter of the movie title, and italicize its font.
Another technique is by creating a sentence structure and using a movie title in it. You can use quotation marks as well as the underlining tool. However, title the essay according to the field of study and don't make it irrelevant.
Mistakes to Avoid While Giving a Title to Your Essay
Here are some tips to keep in mind when crafting effective essay titles to avoid common mistakes:
- Positive themes
Avoid writing about sensitive, unethical, or immoral topics, such as drugs, prostitution, or murder.
- Personal information
Your personal negative experiences should not be included in your essay. However, you can still include lessons learned from those experiences in a professional manner.
- Relevant Questions
Make sure to ask questions that are relevant to your field of study to ensure you choose an appropriate topic.
- Professional tone
Keep your essay professional and avoid including personal information or experiences that are not relevant. Your readers are not interested in your personal life.
- Understanding requirements
It's important to understand your professor's requirements to avoid choosing the wrong topic and wasting time and effort.
- Neutral perspective
Avoid taking an offensive approach in your essay and steer clear of controversial topics such as religion, abortion, and politics.
How to Title an Essay in Different Formats?
All academic essays require a format through which the writer shapes his document. This format varies from academic level to level and institution as well. The format styles include MLA, APA, Chicago, and Harvard.
MLA, APA, and Chicago are the most common formats that are usually used. If you are writing an essay choosing a specific format, all of the parts should be drafted accordingly.
From titling an essay to drawing a conclusion, the writer must follow the format properly to create a strong essay.
How to Title an Essay in MLA Format?
No matter which essay format you are using to shape your argumentative essay, descriptive essay, etc. The qualities of the title and components remain the same.
Although the formatting of the title may differ. For an MLA style , format your essay title in the following pattern:
- On the cover page of your essay, using double spacing, write your name in the upper left corner
- Along with your name, present your instructor's name, the course title, and the date.
- Double-space a line and using centered alignment, provide the essay title in font size 12 pt.
- Do not bold or italicize the title.
- Capitalize important words only and not the articles in the title.
How to Format an Essay in APA Format?
If you are writing an essay in APA style, you might be wondering how to title an essay in apa format.
Simply use the following guidelines to format your title and make your writing process easy:
- Type the title in upper and lowercase letters
- Use centered alignment on the upper half of the page and write the title
- The title in APA style should not exceed more than 12 words
- Avoid using abbreviations and irrelevant words
- The title should be presented in a line or two and not more than that
- Use double spacing between the lines
- Beneath the title, write your name and the institutional affiliation.
How to Title an Essay Chicago Style
To create an appropriate final version of the title for your essay in Chicago style, you should follow certain guidelines.
- Use a heading level 2 (H2) for your title
- Center the title on the page and use title case capitalization
- Keep the title informative and concise, aiming for no more than 12-15 words
- Consider including relevant keywords to make your essay easier to find
- Avoid using slang or informal language in your title
- Use proper grammar and punctuation
How to Choose a Good Title for an Essay
Choosing a good title for an essay is crucial as it sets the tone and theme for the reader.
Here are some important qualities to consider when selecting a title:
- Informative: A good title should give the reader an idea of what the essay is about. It should be concise and clearly convey the main topic or argument of the essay.
- Catchy and Memorable: A title that is catchy and memorable can grab the reader's attention and make them more likely to read the essay. Consider using wordplay, puns, or alliteration to make your title stand out.
- Unique: A title that is unique and original can make your essay stand out from others. Avoid using generic or cliche titles that have been overused.
- Accurate: A title should accurately reflect the content of the essay. Avoid using sensational or misleading titles that do not accurately convey the main point or argument of the essay.
- Relevant: A title should be relevant to the current times or issues. Especially in subjects like current events, social or political issues, and scientific research.
- Reflective of Tone: The title should also reflect the tone of the essay. If the essay is humorous, the title should be as well. If the essay is serious or academic, the title should reflect that.
Essay Title Examples
Just like the tone of every essay differs, the title also differs from each type of essay. For example, movie titles can only be used for informal writing and narrative essays.
Some examples of essay titles are provided below.
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Exploring the Relationship between Social Media and Mental Health |
Investigating the Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Treating Depression |
Here are some more examples of essay titles.
Tips to Draft an Essay Title
Titles for Different Types of Essay
How To Title An Essay About A Book
Bad vs Good Essay Title Examples
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My Essay About the Environment | Climate Change: Causes and Solutions |
The Book I Read | The Impact of To Kill a Mockingbird |
Why I Love Music | The Evolution of Jazz Music |
A Trip to the Beach | Finding Serenity by the Ocean |
My Favorite Hobby | The Art of Photography: Capturing Life |
Tips for Crafting an Outstanding Title
Here are some tips for crafting an outstanding title:
- Brainstorm: Begin by brainstorming a list of potential titles for your essay or paper. Write down as many ideas as you can think of, even if they seem silly or irrelevant at first.
- Be Specific: A good title should be specific and accurate. It should give the reader an idea of what the essay is about. Avoid vague or general titles that don't provide any useful information.
- Use Keywords: Including keywords in your title can make it easier for readers to find your work in searches. Consider what words or phrases a person might use to search for your topic and incorporate them into your title.
- Be Creative: A creative and unique title can make your work stand out from others. Consider using wordplay, puns, alliteration, or metaphors to create a memorable and attention-grabbing title.
- Keep It Short and Sweet: While a title should be specific and informative, it should also be concise. Try to keep your title under 10-12 words, as longer titles can be difficult to read and remember.
For more tips, you can check out this video:
The success of your overall essay is not just based on how well you presented the argument and conducted research to gather the information. A title plays a vital role as well.
Creative titles are like the icing on the cake. Nobody will want to read it when it will not appeal to them.
Make your college essay and paper flawless, as they are the only thing that will get you scores in academics. So, you have to know what mistakes to avoid and what to do when title the essay.
However, you can ask professionals at our best essay service to write your essays perfectly and with the best quality.
Place your " write my college essay for me " request today to get your essays and research papers written by professionals and get writing services at exciting prices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use a question or a statement as my essay title.
Whether to use a question or a statement as your essay title depends on the content and purpose of your essay.
Using a question can be effective if your essay is exploratory and seeks to answer a specific question. On the other hand, using a statement can be more appropriate if your essay has a clear argument or thesis statement.
Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)
Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.
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How to Write Essay Titles and Headers
The deadline for your latest writing assignment is mere minutes away. You’re rushing to get the final details together and suddenly realize you’ve forgotten a title. You quickly throw something random on top of the page and submit it to your teacher.
You’re not satisfied with your title, but you vow to do better next time. And you will!
![how to make a title for essay Waiting until last minute to come up with a title for your writing assignment is never a good idea. This is the first detail your readers notice and should not only prepare them for what they’ll read but intrigue them as well.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62ac8d0645a0685a389def23/62b11b8181713969e6421aca_how-to-write-essay-titles-and-headers.jpeg)
You’ve learned from your mistake: essay titles are not a last-minute detail. They’re an integral part of any piece of written work and should be planned out earlier on in the writing process.
Titles lead to your reader’s first impression of your essay, and the headings help organize your thoughts and make the essay easier to read. Let’s take a look at how you can turn your titles from an afterthought into a well-thought-out writing element.
How Do You Write a Great Title?
People DO judge a book by its cover, and they will judge your essay by its title. So writing a strong title is an important part of starting your writing off on the right foot.
Your essay title has two main functions:
- Inform your reader
- Spark your reader’s interest
Additionally, keep in mind these three pointers:
Be clear and concise
Vague titles do not inform the reader. Provide a specific description of what your focus will be. Your audience wants to know precisely what they will be reading.
Bad Example: Oceans
Good Example: Disappearing Ocean Life in the Pacific Rim
Offer an exciting tidbit or interesting fact
If your title is boring, readers will not want to keep reading. Offer them something that will get attention.
Bad Example: How Consumers are Wrongly Spending Money
Good Example: The Seven Million Dollar Mistake
Everyone may be writing a college admissions essay, but don’t title yours: My College Admissions Essay . No matter what the prompt, make your title something that stands out from the stack.
Bad Example: My Research Project
Good Example: Relocating the Human Race to Mars
How Do You Create a Great Header?
Essay headers are often overlooked by writers, but they can really help your readers as they journey through your essay. While the title may get the reader hooked, the headers keep them moving smoothly through your paper. They enhance readability and help explain what is most relevant in the essay.
Each essay header should answer these two questions:
- What will I learn?
- What is the focus?
When readers approach a new section of your essay, they will have a better reading experience if they have a small preview of what’s to come.
![how to make a title for essay Essay headers should answer two questions for your reader: What will I learn? and What is the focus?](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62ac8d0645a0685a389def23/62b11ba08e1456665654967d_essay-headers-answer-two-questions-learn-focus.jpeg)
Writing a useful header should be relatively easy. Read through your paragraphs and see what the main idea of is. From here, make a list of sub-topics that are discussed in each section. The best way to do this is to pull from the main points you listed out in your outline (which you, of course, remembered to do!).
Remember the following details about writing a header:
Be simple, but informative
You don’t want to give away all of your ideas here, but you need to give some guiding information.
Bad Example: Eating Too Many Fatty Foods Can Increase Your Cholesterol Levels
Good Example: How Your Diet Affects Your Health
Be consistent throughout your essay.
Choose a pattern and stick with it throughout the entirety of the assignment. If you start off by having a heading for each paragraph, keep it that way until the end. Also, make sure the format remains the same. If your first heading is in the form of a question, all of the rest should be as well.
Bad Example: Beaches, What is Up With Littering?, I Want to Clean Up the Planet
Good Example: Neglected Beaches, Effects of Litter, Motivated Activists
Just like when you are writing a title, there are generic headings you can lean on to get it done quick and easy. But don’t use these. Your conclusion shouldn’t have the header, "Conclusion." Come up with something unique for each part of your essay to keep your reader from feeling fatigued as they read on.
Bad Example: Conclusion
Good Example: Will the Pandas Survive?
Be organized and helpful
Your essay should be scannable. This means that if someone needs information fast, they can find it without having to read every word of your piece.
Although titles and headers are often neglected, they are very important to your pieces of writing. They grab your reader’s attention from the start and keep them focused throughout the rest of your essay. Taking the time to craft great titles and headers can advance your writing to the next level.
Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.
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How to Title an Essay: Guide with Creative Examples [2024]
It’s not a secret that the reader notices an essay title first. No catchy hook or colorful examples attract more attention from a quick glance. Composing a creative title for your essay is essential if you strive to succeed, as it:
- causes the first impression;
- reflects the tone, topic, and the purpose of the writing;
- indicates the author’s credibility.
Thus, how you name your paper is of the same importance as the paper itself.
Good titles for essays should be concise and eye-catching. Nobody likes long and cumbersome headings that do not reflect the point of the paper. While tilting your work, pay enough attention to the word choice. How do you come up with a good title? Use your common sense and imagination. For more details, our experts prepared the sections below.
- 💭 What Are Good Titles?
✔️ Finish Your Essay
🤲 sum it up, 🏷️ define the keywords, 🖊️ follow the format, ⚖️ change words, ✨ 23 creative title examples, 💭 what are good titles for essays.
A title is a critical part of any academic paper, so you must understand what to include and how to choose it. Here are some features that your heading has to show.
Strong Title | Poor Title |
---|---|
. A title may become an attention-grabbing element if you compose it right. Don’t miss your chance to impress your audience from the first words. | The title has to intrigue the readers. If a heading you chose is too revealing, the audience will lose interest even before reading. So, be careful! |
A concise title is key to success. Believe us, 5-12 words are entirely enough to reflect the paper’s idea. Choose the right words, though. | A title that contains more than 12 words is a fail. The readers will get lost in your essay’s theme. Will they decide to continue reading your work? Not likely. |
A good title for an essay is the one that covers the entire topic. Keep that in mind while naming your paper. | Numbers and figures are helpful for an academic essay, but not for the title. Leave this data for the body paragraphs. |
If you want to grab the readers’ attention, impress them with a catchy but easy title. The secret lies behind the heading’s simplicity. | . Too complicated titles with difficult words DO NOT seem impressive. Instead, they confuse readers. Better come up with a simple but insightful one. |
The title has to reflect the idea of the paper—don’t go too broad. Come up with the most specific heading that represents the core idea of your essay. | There is nothing wrong with the quotes. But in the body of the essay, not in the title. Use your imagination to name your work. Don’t steal someone else’s thoughts. |
👩🏫 How to Title an Essay?
Are you struggling with formulating a heading? Yes, this task is quite challenging. But let’s figure out the basic rules.
The title of any paper should reveal:
- What the paper is about. Cover the general idea of your work in the title.
- Why the reader might be interested in it. Prove the relevance of your paper to the audience.
- The context of the issue. A good title previews the full picture of the topic regarding its “when” and “where.”
To nail your essay heading, follow the guide below. Check our title examples if you are not sure about your abilities. You can also try and use a creative title page generator for a faster result.
Before writing a title to your essay, you should finish your paper. This way, you’ll be able to reread and get the whole idea to incorporate it into your title.
Moreover, you’ll see how long a title should be for an essay after finishing the entire piece. But remember: not too lengthy and not too wordy.
The essay title depends on the type of essay:
- Narrative essay . For this kind of essay, the title should not provide any detailed info or reflect your position. It should only present the general idea of your piece of writing. For example, the narrative essay topic may look like this: My Thorny Pass to Success.
- Argumentative essay . The title for an argumentative essay should clearly state the point you are going to support. For instance, you can choose the following heading: Social Media Has a Negative Effect on Teenagers.
- Cause and effect essay . For this kind of essay writing, the title should be clear and provide a background of the issue. The reader should immediately understand what the problem is, what its cause is, what an effect is. Usually, writers use the words “due to” or “because” to highlight the cause-effect correlation. Look at the example: Because Coronavirus Attacks, People Start to Explore New Ways of Remote Working.
- Persuasive essay . A persuasive essay should have a dynamic title that immediately calls to action. Moreover, the topic has to be relevant to the audience. For example, for students, the following title would be compelling: Sleep 7-8 Hours a Day: the Lack of Sleep Affects Academic Performance.
The most straightforward way of creating an essay title is summarizing. Sum up the whole paper in one sentence, focus on the central idea, cut the details, and use it as the title.
For this purpose, you can take your thesis statement and restate it, adding creativity. Or use the best summary generator you can find to simplify the task. But don’t forget to make sure that it sounds catchy and explains why the potential reader should check your essay.
For example:
Let’s imagine, you are writing about Artificial Intelligence, and your thesis statement sounds like this:
The purpose of this paper is to explore the advantages of Artificial intelligence’s influence on society and to discover possible outcomes.
Then, the title may be the following:
Artificial Intelligence – the Next Step into the Bright Future.
Every essay includes the key concepts that you explored and the terms that you used for this. You should find essential words and phrases and incorporate them into the essay titles. The keywords will focus the reader’s attention on the central topic of your paper.
You are writing about the negative impact of deforestation on the environment. These are your keywords, as they are the most vital ones. Thus, the title would sound like this:
Protecting the Environment: Deforestation Should be Stopped.
Every educational institution requires to format the academic papers for a particular writing style. Among a wide diversity of citation styles , the most popular ones are APA and MLA formats.
There are a lot of specific requirements regarding the essay title formats. So, let’s investigate these styles.
The APA style requires a title page at the beginning of your research paper. Here, where the readers first meet the heading. The title page should include the following:
- The paper’s title. Centered, bold, capitalized, 3-4 lines below the top margin.
- The author’s name (first name, middle initial, last name). Centered, not bold, two lines below the title.
- The author’s affiliations. Centered, not bold, immediately after the name.
- Number and name of the course.
- The instructor’s name and title.
- Page number in the top right corner.
See the example of an APA title page below:
![how to make a title for essay The title page in APA format.](https://custom-writing.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/The-title-page-in-APA-format..jpg)
The MLA style does not require a separate title page. Still, some formatting rules are to be strictly followed.
- The MLA paper should start one inch from the top of the document, flush left.
- Write the author’s name, then the instructor’s name, the course number, and the date. Each item should be on a separate double-spaced line.
- Add the title of your paper. It should be centered and capitalized.
- Do not put quotation marks, underline, italicize, or boldface your MLA title. Just make it centered and capitalized.
Here is an example of an MLA title formatting.
![how to make a title for essay The essay title in MLA format.](https://custom-writing.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/The-essay-title-in-MLA-format.jpg)
Before choosing a title, figure out is the tone of your essay. Is it more formal or friendly? Do you write it for a college or a personal blog?
Change the wording to make your title sound more catchy and positive. Or serious and official. You can try something new and come up with a creative title for your essay.
You need to write an article about the benefits of healthy eating for university and your online blog. For an academic essay, your title would probably look like this:
A Well-Balanced Diet Is a Key to a Healthy Organism.
In contrast, for a blog article, it would be better to write something like this:
An Apple a Day Keeps a Doctor Away: How Healthy Eating Helps us Be Fit.
Do you see the magic? One topic, different wording, and completely diverse tones as a result. So, try until you reach the most appropriate version of the title for your piece of writing.
Are you still struggling with the selection of a heading for your paper? Take a look at our creative essay title examples! Inspire, then turn on your imagination, and create a personal title.
Argumentative Essay Titles.
- Intercultural Community at University: Prosperity or Constant Encounters.
- Leadership Nature: a Congenital or an Acquired Feature?
- Do Energetic Drinks Help or Harm the Organisms?
- Why Should Sex Education Be Taught at Schools?
- Should the Law Punish Bullying?
- Guns Legalization is an Unsafe Way of Self-Protection.
Narrative Essay Titles.
- Lady Macbeth – One of the Most Frightening Female Characters of Shakespeare.
- The Art of Overcoming Failures: How to Deal with the Downfalls Easily.
- Steve Jobs: from a Poor Student to a Multi-billionaire.
- The Most Influential Person in my Life.
- Three Biggest Events of my Life that Shaped me as a Person.
- What Does it Mean to be a Loving Kid for your Parents?
- What Does “Family” Mean to You?
Persuasive Essay Titles.
- Never Judge the Person by their Appearance.
- Music Should be Implemented as a Medical Treatment.
- In the Battle Between E-Books and Paper Books, the Last Ones Should Win.
- Remote Learning Cannot Replace Face-to-Face Classes.
- Technology Addiction is a Threat to the Future Generation.
- Murderers Should be Sentenced to Death Penalty.
Cause and Effect Essay Titles.
- Because of Traveling Around the World, People Expand their Horizons.
- Due to Massive Immigration, Countries Lose their Cultural Identity.
- Home Abuse as a Cause of Depression and Suicide as its Effect.
- Drug Addiction: a Cause for Psychological Disorder or an Effect?
Thank you for reading our article. Now you get how to come up with a good title for an essay. Don’t forget to share our page with your friends.
- Writing an Effective Title: Quick Tips, Student Support Writing Center, University of Minnesota
- Choosing a Title, Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Research Guides at University of Southern California
- How Do I Write a Great Title: U-M LSA Sweetland Center for Writing, College of Literature, Science, and Arts, University of Michigan
- General Format: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, Purdue University
- Formatting a Research Paper, Heading and Title: The MLA Style Center
- Title Page Setup: APA Style, American Psychological Association
- APA Title Page (Cover Page) Format, Example, Template: Saul McLeod, Simply Psychology
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How to Title an Essay?
Purpose and importance of essay title.
An essay title bears great importance, which is why a wrong headline choice can make or break the quality of the paper you submit. Why? The reason is simple. The title you choose has to intrigue your professor or other readers. It must make them want to start reading the whole thing to find out what you wrote and how you developed an argument. This is especially important for an argumentative essay topic . That is why the words you use are vital to the success of the entire work.
The title is, in fact, the first thing your professor, client, or other readers see and your job is to get the “This seems very interesting” reaction, rather than “Oh God, this will be boring.”
Some may assume that the text is the only thing that matters. Every part of your paper plays a huge role if you want to get positive feedback and a good grade. Choosing a title that encourages people to read your essay because they’re curious also allows you to find fertile ground to showcase your knowledge, wisdom, and writing skills simultaneously. This is particularly important for freelance writers whose success depends on the number of people who open and read their essays and articles.
What Are the Qualities of a Good Essay Title
Before you start writing a title for your essay, it is always useful to know more about the qualities that every headline should have. When you know all characteristics of good titles, you’re bound to make wise decisions and complete this part of the essay writing process successfully.
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Below we present the most important qualities for the title of your paper:
Eye-catching – think about it. Do you prefer reading content or academic papers with boring headlines, or you’re more inclined to opt for something with an interesting, eye-catching deadline? The answer is obvious
Credible – most students and freelance writers make mistakes by trying to make their titles catchy. In such a way, they stray from the truth, thus making the headline inaccurate or a complete, blatant lie. Nothing will anger your professor like a heading that doesn’t correspond to the truth
Easy to read – nobody likes complicated and tricky titles, not even your professor. Stay away from strange phrases, complex structures, and even some uncommon fonts when writing your headline
Active voice – if your heading contains verbs, always make sure they’re in active rather than passive voice. For instance, instead of “Is regression of society caused by celebrity culture”, you should write “How does celebrity culture contribute to the regression of society?”.
Brief – whenever you can, make an essay title concise. Long headlines are confusing and don’t demonstrate your skills for laconic writing
Accurate – regardless of the topic or niche and under no circumstances write an inaccurate essay title. It would help if you gave your readers a clear idea of what they will read in an essay. Never try to mislead. It can only harm the overall quality of the essay, and your professor will not appreciate it
What Are The Components of the Essay Title?
Our experts state that all types of essays have their outline formula you can use to write a high-quality paper. If you build your heading, you can create your formula too. Below are the main components of your essay’s title:
- A catchy hook – introduces the paper in a creative way
- Topic keywords – the “core” of your essay. This component identifies concepts you’ll be exploring
- Focus keywords – the “where/when” of your essay. Together with topic keywords, these are vital for your headline and provide more info that makes it professional
Example: Buy Me a Date: Consumerization and Theories of Social Interaction in 21st Century Online Dating Sites
Let’s deduce:
- Catchy hook – “buy me a date”
- Topic keywords – “consumerism, social interaction, dating”
- Focus keywords – “21st century”
![how to make a title for essay checklist for writing a title for an essay](https://edusson.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/checklist-for-creating-a-good-essay-title-724x1024.jpg)
Stuck on How to Title an Essay?
Check out these example essay titles. Essay Topic Generator Look for topic View more
How to Create Essay Title
Now that you know the importance of essay titles and the qualities they should have, it’s time to learn how to create them. Don’t feel bad about yourself if you can’t make a good essay title on the spot. Even the most prolific writers experience writer’s block when choosing an ideal headline. The writer’s block isn’t the issue here. It matters how you overcome it and create the title. Here are a few ideas that you’ll find useful.
Write Essay First, Title Last
Creating the title and writing your essay may seem logical, but doing the opposite can be more beneficial. Most authors never start with the title. Of course, you may have some working headline in mind, allowing you to focus, develop an argument, and so on. But, writing your paper will give you a clear idea of what to use in your title. As you write and reread your essay, you’ll know what to say in the title and intrigue your reader. You’ll experience your “Aha; I’ll write this” moment.
Another benefit of creating a title is that you won’t waste too much time. It is not uncommon for students to spend hours just figuring out the proper title for their essays. That’s the time you could have spent researching, creating an outline, or writing. If you still feel confused, you can get professional online writing help at Edusson.
Use Your Thesis
Here is yet another reason to leave the title for the end. Good titles offer your reader (or more of them) the reason for reading your paper. Therefore, the best place to find that reason is the thesis statement you’ve already written in the introduction. Try working the thesis statement, or at least a part of it, into a title.
Let’s say your thesis statement is this: “The American colonies rebelled against Great Britain because they were tired of being taxed, and they resented British military presence in their lives and homes.”
To create a title, you may use the alliteration “Tired of Taxes and Troops,” or you can opt for “Rebellion of American Colonies against British Rule: Taxes, Troops, and other factors.”
Use Popular Phrases and Clichés You Can Re-work
Popular catchphrases that apply to the essay’s topic make eye-catching titles, too, particularly when the phrase is amusing or creates an interesting pun. Besides popular phrases, you can also go for clichés and make some tweaks to re-work and adapt them to the topic of your essay and title itself. For instance: “Fit to be tried: The battle over gay marriage in the courts”.
Consider the Tone of Your Essay
Of course, the tone of your essay plays an important role in creating a perfect title. If you are writing about a serious topic, don’t be witty, silly, or off-the-wall with your headline. If your essay is a personal statement with some anecdotes, you can go for a sparkling yet intelligent title. Always make sure the tone of the title and essay match. Bear in mind that even in amusing titles, you should avoid using jargon. Don’t use abbreviations in your headlines as well.
Use Quote or Central Idea
This isn’t a general rule, but it is handy when applicable. Your title can feature a quote or a part of it taken from our similar interesting essay topics and ideas you’re writing about. If appropriate and relevant to the subject, even a part of a song lyric can serve the same purpose. You can take a fragment of a thought-provoking quote when your essay is about a book. For example: “Toil and trouble: Murder and intrigue in Macbeth”.
Sum Up Your Essay in THREE WORDS
This is a useful technique for creating essay titles. All you have to do is to sum up your entire essay or a thesis statement in three words and use them to build the headline, put a colon and then insert what your essay is all about.
![how to make a title for essay how to make a title for essay](https://edusson.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/qualified-writers-e1564667737889.png)
How to Punctuate an Essay Title
Many authors find it difficult to punctuate titles in essays. Properly punctuating titles may be tricky, because the standards aren’t always consistent. Here are some professional tips from our expert that used to write a college essay for students for appropriately punctuating titles using italics, capitalization, and quotation marks.
Although the criteria for proper title capitalization vary widely, here are a few guidelines. Except for articles and prepositions, capitalize the first and final word in a title and every other word in the title. Some people recommend capitalizing prepositions with five or more letters. Of course, just the initial letter is capitalized.
Use punctuation marks only when essential, not at random . Commas, colons, and semicolons are examples of punctuation marks that should be used when they are required. Quotation marks should be placed wherever one occurs in the text of an essay or on the works-cited page.
If your essay contains a subtitle, place a colon after the title and the subheading on the following line underneath it . Even if your headline and subtitle are very short, use two lines. Your work’s additional titles or headers should be bolded but not bigger than the text that follows them. Arrange them to the left and insert them either at the beginning of a section with a period or on their line without a period.
Self-sufficient works or collective essays are italicized . For example, the title of a newspaper might be placed in italics. The title of an article, a song from an album, and a TV episode would be in quotation marks.
Using italics instead of quotation marks consistently throughout your text is critical. The standards for capitalizing and punctuating titles differ in writing. Certain writing assignments need to use one writing handbook’s format over another. Therefore, it might be useful to consult your professor to choose the best guidebook to follow for academic work.
Examples of Good and Bad Titles for Essays
Unsurprisingly, the reader is drawn to an essay title immediately. Nobody loves lengthy and clumsy headlines that do not convey the paper’s main argument. Pay close attention to the word choice as you angle your work. Make use of your rational thinking and creativity. Our specialists that can gladly help you to write essays for money produced the sections below for further information.
It should be simple to read
Essay titles that are completed yet difficult to grasp will not aid you. As a result, it is better to avoid using difficult terms and ideas. Choose something that every level of the reader may read and understand.
Good: “Joseph Stalin vs. Winston Churchill”, “How to Deal with Depression”, “Pros and Cons of Freelance”.
Bad: “Employees Use Social Networking Rather Than Concentrating During Work Hours”, “When Should You Start Giving Your Baby Solid Foods”
It must be short
The title of your essay should not be overly lengthy. It should instead be succinct and straight to the point. Long essay headlines will mislead your readers and not highlight your writing abilities.
Good: “Best App for Writers”, “The Effect of Racism”.
Bad: “What Do School Shooting Survivors Do When They Return to School”
It must be captivating
If you write a good title, it might become an attention-grabbing aspect. Don’t pass up the opportunity to wow your audience right away.
Good: “Suppose This Happened on Your First School Day”, “Do You Engage in Any of These 10 Awkward Behaviors?”
Bad: “Everlasting Feelings”, “Recent Advances in Kidney Failure Treatment”
Mistakes to avoid
- Avoid negative tone and sensitive problems
- No dramatic and unclear titles
- Don’t overuse fonts and punctuation
- Be simple and avoid complicated language
- Try to sound professional, don’t use filler words
25 Captivating Titles For An Essay
Do you want your essay to persuade your readers or professor? Start with the right words in the title. How your words sound matter more than how sensible they are. One of the greatest principles every student must adhere to is to create meaningful and persuasive papers. The first important step is choosing a catchy topic. If you feel lost, you can look up a list of argumentative topic examples from your field of study. A captivating subject can do a ton of wonderful things: increase the readers’ engagement, grab the professor’s attention, make your paper more interesting, and score higher marks.
What topic idea do you think would make someone start reading your paper immediately? Interesting, confident, creative, striking, bold are some of the words that describe the best essay titles.
Regardless of the paper, you handle, use the following steps on your way to crafting an interesting topic.
- Find a creative hook, fact, or quote
- Get the right words to describe your idea
- Think about a statement that summarizes your paper
Are you stuck wondering how to title your essay? Don’t worry – we have a great selection of catchy college essay titles that will capture the reader’s attention. Our list is sure to help you make a lasting impression on your professor or any other reader. If you need further assistance, you can also take advantage of our literature review service for the best results.
Argumentative Essay Title Examples
- Society Has The Responsibility Of Fighting Anorexia
- Every Country Must Activate The Death Sentence
- Is The US Education System Of Any Help To International Students?
- The Most Corrupt Nations In The World
- Is Politics A Practical Art Or An Inborn Talent?
- Does Alcohol Destroy The Brain?
- The Most Appropriate Age To Vote
- Spanish Is Not The Easiest Language To Learn
- Do Steroids Help Or Destroy Human Body?
Persuasive Essay Title Examples
- Capitalism: The Perpetrator Of Social Development
- Are Illegal Immigrants A Big Issue?
- Alternative Medicine: Pros And Cons
- What Role Do Guidance Counselors Play In The Mental Health Of Teenagers
- TV As A Major Contributor To Violence In Society
- How Would Superman Be In The Real World?
- Horror Movies Must Be Banned For Kids’ Sake
Catchy Essay Title Examples
- Team Games Should Be Played By Both Boys And Girls
- Zoos Vs. Human Prisons
- The Good Side Of War
- Marijuana Can Assist In Peacemaking
- School Kids Should Stop Wearing Uniforms
- The Use Of Filthy Language On The Internet
- Technology Is Turning People Into Zombies
- The Pros And Cons Of Globalization
- Tsunami Is A Death Wave
Bottom line
The success of your essay doesn’t only depend on the argument you develop, research you do, the title matters as well. Most students struggle to find an ideal headline, but with a few easy tips and tricks from this post, you can forget about frustrations, save some time, and create a catchy and informative headline to intrigue readers. But if you have some doubts, why not try custom essay writing at Edusson and make sure you have everything in place for a successful essay?
FAQ About How to Title an Essay
Can an essay title be a question.
Yes, it can be a question. It should be related to the facts presented in the essay and should represent the thesis that the author intends to prove. But don’t overuse it. Sometimes it may add to your essay a less formal tone.
How Long Should An Essay Title Be?
Excellent research paper titles include precise terms and phrases that appropriately reflect the article’s key topic. Come up with a title for essay that is brief yet contains enough keywords. This will allow others to locate it while searching related databases. A typical rule of thumb is 5 – 10 words.
Should An Essay Title Be Italicized?
If the source is independent, italicize the title. Write the titles of books, films, websites, and magazines in italics. If the paper belongs to a larger piece of work, add the quotation marks. Writers use them for articles, websites, essays, and songs .
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- Effective Ways to Improve Creativity
How to Write a Synthesis Essay
- How to Use Sentence Starters for Essays
- How to Write a Hook for your Essay or Paper [Examples Included]
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How to Write a Strong Title for an Argumentative Essay
Last Updated: June 4, 2023 Fact Checked
This article was co-authored by Diane Stubbs . Diane Stubbs is a Secondary English Teacher with over 22 years of experience teaching all high school grade levels and AP courses. She specializes in secondary education, classroom management, and educational technology. Diane earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Delaware and a Master of Education from Wesley College. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 169,331 times.
In most cases, a title for an essay is only required for college papers. A title for an argumentative essay isn't much different than a title for any other essay. You need to present what your essay is about in phrase form, as well as provide a hook to encourage the reader to read your essay. One main difference is you also need to make sure you establish your stance on the subject, so the reader knows where your argument is headed from the beginning. In order to create a strong title, you should write your essay before coming up with a title for it.
Summarizing Your Ideas
![how to make a title for essay Step 1 Start brainstorming.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7f/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-1.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-1.jpg)
- Also, read through your paper. Start making notes on the main ideas. If you organized your paper well, you should have the paper divided into several main ideas.
- Write down any ideas you have about what you think should go in your title.
![how to make a title for essay Step 2 Summarize your content.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/ff/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-2.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-2.jpg)
- In most cases, your thesis, or a version of it, is the best summary for the essay. The thesis should be stated at the end of your introduction, and perhaps restated at the beginning of your conclusion as well.
- Try to get it down to one sentence if possible, such as, "Soup is significantly more flavorful when made with stock than when made with water."
![how to make a title for essay Step 3 Make a list of keywords and phrases.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/07/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-3.jpg)
- For instance, if you wrote a paper on why soup is better when made with stock than water, think about what words are essential to that paper.
- Your list of keywords might include "soup," "stock," and "flavor," as an example.
Creating a Title
![how to make a title for essay Step 1 Think about your audience and tone.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/07/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-4.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-4.jpg)
- Also, think about the tone of your essay. If it's lighthearted, a lighthearted title will fit. For instance, an essay on stock and chicken soup lends itself to lightheartedness.
- However, if your essay is very serious, stick to a serious title. For instance, if you're trying to convince people that poverty needs to end, that's a pretty serious topic and needs a serious title.
![how to make a title for essay Step 2 Pull a sentence out.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b7/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-5.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-5.jpg)
- Read over your paper. You can use this opportunity to proofread while you look for a good sentence.
- Write out any sentence that may work. For instance, one sentence that might work is "Soup is delicious, but it is even more delicious when made with stock."
- Shorten it up to work as a title: "Soup Is More Flavorful With Stock."
![how to make a title for essay Step 3 Try a question.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-6.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-6.jpg)
- For instance, you could write, "Why Does Stock Make Soup So Flavorful?" That establishes your topic, as well as invites your reader into your paper.
- Just be sure you are answering the question you propose.
- Choose a different question than the one you used for your hook, if applicable.
![how to make a title for essay Step 4 Make it playful.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/24/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-7.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-7.jpg)
- Come up with something that is contrasting or surprising. A concrete image works well, meaning something that invokes the senses. For instance, you could write something like "The Flavor of Boiled Chicken Bones Is the Best for Soup."
- People don't necessarily think bones are tasty, but they are used to create your flavorful broth. Therefore, it's a bit surprising, but it plays into your essay.
- Try to create a title that is both short and sweet.
![how to make a title for essay Step 5 Make a pun or use a famous saying.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9c/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-8.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-8.jpg)
- As an example, a pun you could use would be "Use Your Backbone to Make Soup." "Backbone" is a play both on the fact that you're using stock (made from bones) and that you need to use your backbone to stand up for stock.
- As for a saying, you could use something like "Chicken Soup: Only the Opiate of the Masses If Made With Stock." "Opiate of the masses" is a reference to Karl Marx and will attract attention.
Finessing Your Title
![how to make a title for essay Step 1 Give it some time.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cc/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-9.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-9.jpg)
- That is, move words around to see if you can make a better statement.
- Try mixing and matching among titles that you like. Pick the parts you like best.
![how to make a title for essay Step 2 Be specific.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/13/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-10.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-10.jpg)
- For instance, if you are discussing a specific type of soup, add that in: "Chicken Stock Makes the Best Chicken Soup."
- If you are specifically talking about homemade stock, add that in "Homemade Chicken Stock Makes the Best Chicken Soup."
- If possible, try to give the reader just an idea of which side you plan to argue in favor of in the essay.
![how to make a title for essay Step 3 Use a subtitle.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c9/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-11.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-11.jpg)
- The most common method is putting the creative part first as the main title, followed by the informative part in the subtitle. However, you can do it either way.
- For example, you could write: "Use Your Backbone: Why You Should Advocate for Stock in Soup."
- If the titles are on the same line, separate them by a colon. If not, you don't need the colon.
![how to make a title for essay Step 4 Check for keywords.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/56/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-12.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-12.jpg)
- Compare your title to the list you made earlier.
![how to make a title for essay Step 5 Ensure you've covered your topic.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4f/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-13.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-13.jpg)
- In the case of an argumentative essay, that not only means that you've presented what your topic is but also what your stance on that topic is.
- Try it out on a parent. Ask her what she thinks the paper is about from your title.
![how to make a title for essay Step 6 Skip abbreviations.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/00/Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-14.jpg/v4-460px-Write-a-Strong-Title-for-an-Argumentative-Essay-Step-14.jpg)
- The exception to this rule is very common abbreviations or abbreviations that are appropriate for your audience.
- For instance, using "HIV" probably wouldn't confuse your readers.
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- It can be helpful to look up titles of articles and essays for reference. Check major websites or networks for examples of effective titles. Remember to avoid “clickbait,” though! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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- ↑ http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/titles.pdf
- ↑ https://umanitoba.ca/student/academiclearning/media/Writing_a_Great_Title_NEW.pdf
- ↑ https://www.esu.edu/writing-studio/guides/hook.cfm
- ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-write-a-great-title-.html
- ↑ http://www.editage.com/insights/3-basic-tips-on-writing-a-good-research-paper-title
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Discover the perfect title for your next essay with our AI-powered Essay Title Generator! Designed for students and writers, this tool creates unique and engaging essay titles based on your topic or main ideas. Simply enter your subject, such as ‘the benefits of renewable energy’, and receive a list of potential titles in seconds.
How to Use the Essay Title Generator
Using the Essay Title Generator is a breeze. Just type in your essay topic, key concepts, or main points into the generator, and with a single click, you’ll receive a variety of title suggestions. Browse through the generated titles and choose the one that best fits your essay’s theme and captures your intended message. Once you’ve found the perfect title, you can use it for your writing assignment, research paper, or academic project. This tool is user-friendly and suitable for writers of all levels, making the process of finding a great title quick and easy.
What is the Essay Title Generator?
The Essay Title Generator is an AI-based tool that creates original and thought-provoking essay titles. By analyzing your input keywords or themes, it generates a range of titles suitable for various academic disciplines and writing styles. This tool is a helpful resource for students and writers looking to create titles that accurately reflect their essay’s content and grab the reader’s attention. Whether you’re working on a persuasive essay, an expository piece, or a narrative essay, these AI-generated titles can provide inspiration and help you get started on your writing journey. The Essay Title Generator aims to simplify the process of finding the perfect title, allowing you to focus on crafting a compelling essay.
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An academic title is probably the first thing your readers will experience about your paper. This handout will show you two approaches to creating paper titles, one that is more informative, and another that is more creative. The first is most often used for formal academic papers. The second is more likely to be used for narratives or personal essays, but it can sometimes be used for academic papers as well.
General Considerations
Before deciding on a title, be sure to think carefully about your audience. Who will be reading this paper and what are their motivations? Do they want to be entertained? Are they concerned with acquiring information as clearly and concisely as possible? How do you want your reader to feel about the content of your paper? Asking questions such as these will help you determine the appropriate tone for your title.
A great academic title should tell your readers as much as possible about your paper’s central claim and its significance. Good titles often include: A hook A set of key terms A source
Approach #1: Titles for Academic Papers
Good academic titles reveal not only the topic of the paper but some idea of your specific approach, argument, and area of discussion. Here are some typical and useful academic titles:
- Good Bye Lenin!: Free Market Nostalgia for Socialist Consumerism
- The Artful Thunder as Dramatic Technique in Shakespeare’s The Tempest
The Effects of Light and Temperature on the Growth of Populations of the Bacterium, Escherichia coli
“The Machine-Language of the Muscles”: Reading, Sport and the Self in Infinite Jest
Though representing a range of disciplines, each of these titles is clear, independent and self-explanatory. Notice how each title is relatively long and contains multiple phrases. Academic writing is complex and demands equally complex and purposeful titles. If you look carefully at the sample titles, you will notice that each has three separate elements:
- The hook – This is a creative element that draws in the reader. Typically this is a catchy, readable phrase that advertises the paper’s specific subject. The hook is sometimes a direct quotation from a text or a sudden introduction of a new and exciting element of your topic.
- Key terms – These are crucial words or phrases that are indispensable to the topic at hand. In academic writing, scholars are often asked to identify a few select terms that will identify their paper in an index. Similarly, the use of key terms in a paper’s title will make the paper more searchable in a database. You want to load your title with important terminology as a way to orient the reader to the concepts under discussion in the paper to follow. The best titles are like very brief summaries of the paper itself.
- The source – Sometimes called a “location,” this is the place in the title where the concepts under discussion are to be found. Depending on the discipline, your source might be a piece of writing, the name of a text, a geographical place, a person, an existing debate, an organism, and so on.
Good titles never state the obvious nor do they apply a generic label to a paper. Titles like “Paper #1” or “Lab Report” are clearly too general and unhelpful. Similarly, titles that rely too much on large abstractions are not welcome: “Society and its Many Problems.” In this title the reader has no idea which society is under discussion, what the particular problems may be, or why this is at all current and significant. Avoid clichés at all costs as well: “A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words”. This title is virtually meaningless. If it feels like a common title to you, it will likely seem as common to another reader. Remember, the assignment may be given by the instructor, but the title is your first chance to make the paper your own. Remember also to center your title at the top of your first page of your text. Use the same font and size as the rest of your paper.
Analyzing an Example of an Academic Paper Title
Consider this title from above:
This title’s parts are all clearly visible. The hook is a direct quotation from the novel under discussion, a well-chosen particular that advances an important theme in the novel. The next part: “Reading, Sport and the Self” contains the title’s key terms. The title is making a promise here to the reader that the paper will engage these three critical concepts. Finally we see the source of the title, prompted by the preposition “in”. Someone reading this title or searching for it in a database would easily identify it as a study of a particular book, in this case, a novel by David Foster Wallace, which is concerned with the ideas of reading, sport and the self. In the humanities, you will often see writers divide their titles into two distinct parts, as in this example, marked by a colon that allows the hook to introduce the rest of the title.
Here is another example, this time from the sciences:
Science writing rarely uses a hook in the same way as papers in the humanities. The hook in a science paper is often simply a highly relevant but exciting and direct introduction of a new approach or discovery. What you mostly find in science writing titles is a catalog of key terms that corresponds directly to the paper’s thesis, significance and methods. Here we see a number of key terms: light, temperature, growth, and the bacterium itself. This title would be highly searchable and is very informative. The final part is the source which simply and clearly identifies the bacterium under discussion.
Approach #2: Titles for Narrative and Personal Papers
Being simple and clear can be very useful in a formal academic essay, but what if you aren’t writing an analytical paper? How do you write a title for a personal essay or statement? How about a title for that English paper that asks you to write a narrative or share an observation? These types of papers might well demand titles that simply sound interesting and creative rather than strictly academic.
In these cases you may want to use an interesting phrase from your paper. Perhaps there is a humorous or dramatic anecdote you offer in your creative paper that sums it all up. Perhaps there is a quotation or phrase that could serve as the title. In these cases you simply want to interest the reader by making the paper seem unique. Here is your opportunity to really put your stamp on the paper and to intrigue the reader. Here are some interesting and intriguing titles for creative essays:
“Why I Screen My Calls” “The Week of Rental Car Disasters” “My Son, the Burglar, Revisited” “What’s So Wrong with the Brady Bunch?”
Each of these titles is provocative. The first two offer the agenda for the paper; presumably you will learn the hilarious and awful history behind each title by reading the paper. The final two titles depend on humorous and contrary bits of information: a father writing about his burglar son, which seems at odds with what we might expect a father to write about his son (and in this case “revisited” is a provocative word since perhaps the son has burgled again). The Brady Bunch title is also funny because it promises a defense of an unexpected position or at least an eminently arguable one, which makes it an intriguing paper title.
In Practice
Imagine you are a student writing a paper for a class on animal behavior. You have a particular species to study, you have done the field work, and you have some conclusions to offer. Here is your first attempt: “Monkey Behavior”.
This is very general and tells us nothing about the kind of monkey or a particular behavior. It does little to attract the reader.
Your second attempt is a little better: “The Effects of Sugar on Monkey Behavior”.
This title is a little clearer and even mildly amusing. Now, at least we have some idea of a cause and an understanding of some important concepts. But can you be more specific? Wouldn’t it make sense to add more key terms from the paper itself? Readers already can conjecture that sugar would have some effect on monkey behavior, so this title needs to be less mysterious and more precise. Here is a better academic title:
“Sugar Stimulates Intensity of Tail-Twitch Social Behavior in Panamanian Monkeys”
Now you have a title that is full of specific key terms, includes a clear location, and provides a bold and specific claim before the text of the paper begins. This is incredibly helpful to your readers.
Try your hand at creating an academic title for a paper with the following topic:
“Write a 5-7 page paper analyzing any work of the author and illustrator Dr. Seuss. You may make reference to one or more of his books, but you must analyze the text(s) based on at least one of the following: Seuss’s use of metaphor, imagery, symbolism, or rhyme. You must also make a connection between this device and his drawing technique or subject matter. Use quotes to support your argument.”
HINT: This is a tough (though potentially interesting) assignment prompt, but remember the three parts of the academic title: hook, key terms, and source. Your hook could be a quote, perhaps a direct quote that shows either metaphor, imagery, symbolism or rhyme. This would be a smart move because you would reveal in the title which of the four options you chose for the paper topic. In other words, by quoting, you would already have an example before you introduce your argument. Your key terms would likely be lifted from the assignment prompt itself (metaphor, imagery, etc. . .). The source would be just that: the name of the book you chose to explore.
Now challenge yourself to make a creative title for this paper. The possibilities are endless here. Think in terms of being clever and witty and actually making use of the terms and techniques the assignment asks you to consider.
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How to Title an Essay with Literary Analysis Examples
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How to Write a Controlling Idea Essay
You may have spent hours brainstorming your thesis, searching for quotations and polishing your final draft, but a good title can make the difference between someone reading your literary essay and tossing it aside. Good literary essay titles not only capture your reader's interest, but they also preview the argument you'll be making in the paper itself. They capture the central idea that is presented in your work, and entice the viewer to read. Creativity, humor and innovative plays on the work you're writing about can transform a dull title into one that piques your audience's curiosity.
Include the Subject and Focus
Your title should not just name the literary work that is the subject of your essay but also describe its focus , the target idea, literary device or theme that the piece explores. This is sometimes referred to as a "working title" as well, since it focuses heavily on the main part of your essay, and can remind you of your focus as you read. In an essay about morality in "To Kill a Mockingbird," for example, Harper Lee's novel would be the subject of the paper, while morality would be the essay's focus. Including the phrase "Morality in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' " somewhere in your title would clearly indicate to audiences what themes your essay will deal with. This is a more basic example of an essay title, but effective in most all cases.
Link Two Ideas With a Colon
While including the subject and focus in the title gives a good summary of your essay topic, it's not enough to pull readers in. Using a colon to punctuate the subject with a catchy explanation of the focus can not only add an air of professionalism to your paper but also give a more in-depth, eye-catching preview of your topic for readers. An essay about Holden Caulfield's painful transition to adulthood, for example, might be titled "The Precarious Edge of the Cliff: Loss of Innocence in J.D. Salinger's 'The Catcher in the Rye.' "
This title choice also allows you to present two ideas that are key parts of your essay, if you choose to. Maybe you can't decide on just one, because both are equally important. This choice would be a good tool for featuring both ideas and connecting them to each other. Displaying a longer, more developed essay title, can also give you the freedom to discuss these ideas in your essay with more detail since they are featured in the title.
Include a Quotation from the Work
Sometimes, a quotation from the book can provide inspiration for your essay's title. Try adding a brief, snappy portion of this quote to your title's focus statement. For example, the title for an essay about mother-daughter relationships in Flannery O'Connor's short stories might borrow from a quote in the story "Good Country People," in which the central character, Hulga, tells her overbearing, critical mother, "If you want me, here I am -- like I am." The title of this essay might read, "Like I Am: Mother-Daughter Dysfunction in Flannery O'Connor's Short Stories."
Use Wordplay
While the tone of your literary essay should ultimately be professional and credible, using puns or humor to play off an aspect of the title can be a friendly way to entice your audience to read further. For example, an essay about the symbolic villages of East and West Egg in "The Great Gatsby" might be titled "The Eggs Came First: Settings as Symbols in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby.' "
You can be assured your teacher, or whoever is viewing your paper, is going to sift through many boring and unoriginal essay titles, so making sure that yours will pop is important.
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Kori Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in professional writing and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing and has been crafting online and print educational materials since 2006. She taught creative writing and composition at West Virginia University and the University of Akron and her fiction, poetry and essays have appeared in numerous literary journals.
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Title Ideas for Essays
When you choose titles for essays, it is important to understand that it is one of the most important parts of a paper. The deal is that the title of an essay sets a tone of a whole paper and helps to make the first impression. Making good titles for essaysmeans getting the readers interested in what will be written in the main body of the paper. If the title seems boring, it is not likely that your paper will be paid proper attention to. The writer should remember that the purpose of an essay title is to grab attention.
Choosing a Proper Title for an Essay
Unlike other academic papers, for example, research papers, titles for essays should be more interesting and impressive. Even though essay is an academic paper, it is still less formal than term paper or dissertation. As a result, it is important to know how to make a creative title for an essay. This goal can be reached by simple brainstorming. Create as many titles for your essay as possible and try to single out one that fits the content best. Still, it is important to remember that the title should not only be interesting but also informative. It should tell the reader what information will be provided in the paper.
Examples of Good vs. Bad Titles for Essays
To make a title good, the writer should be able to describe the whole paper in a couple of words. As a result, the writer should know what the essay is about, which leads to the fact that a good title can only be written after the paper is completed.Here are the examples that demonstrate different titles of essays:
As you can see, bad titles do not give a clear understanding of what is going to be outlined in the essay or give too vague description. The situation can be changed by simply adding some key information to it.
Titles for Essays: Useful Tips
In search engines, you can find the list of the most popular and interesting book titles. If you have to create a title for your essay, reading a couple of them will guide you in the right direction. Creating a suitable title is a key to success. If you want to buy a book, you will definitely check the cover page and read its title. You will put a book aside if the title is dull and does not make any sense to you.
- Attract Readers' Attention
The title should grab readers' attention. Even if the book content is breathtaking, the author will never get appreciation just because the title does not meet readers' expectations. The title should be brief, but at the same time explicit, which means that this short phrase should give enough information to understand what the author tries to explore.
- Create the Title in the End
If you think that you should start from creating the title, you are wrong. Yes, you can come up with a working title and write it in the top corner, but it does not mean that it should remain the same after you are done with an essay. Most authors create the content and then get back to the title. The title should represent the focus of writing and in many cases, authors completely change a direction. Some students waste too much time on the creation of a good title and forget that it can be easier if they produce the whole paper first and they work on the title. Always think creatively to make up a good title.
- The Essay Focus
Remember that your title should give readers a hint about what you try to discuss in the essay. At the same time, do not forget about a thesis statement that should be placed in the end of your introduction. Your title and thesis should be interdependent. However, the title is usually a shortened version of the thesis.
- Use Modern Phrases
Readers are always pleased to read something that is down-to-earth, meaning that your content should resemble modern day reality. If there are some catchy popular phrases used by everyone, you can introduce them in your title. It will make it more attractive and fashionable.
- Do Not Be Afraid to Experiment
Teachers are always pleased to see some extraordinary and unique ideas in students' papers. Therefore, if you make your essay title creative and fresh, you will definitely get a good grade. You can resort to some other disciplines and present some philosophical ideas that will prove that you are not reluctant to experiment in writing. You can refer to some popular TV shows and series to find some catchy ideas that can be used in writing to stir reader' imagination.
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Want to write a college essay that sets you apart? Three tips to give you a head start
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1. Keep it real. It’s normal to want to make a good impression on the school of your choice, but it’s also important to show who you really are. So just be yourself! Compelling stories might not be perfectly linear or have a happy ending, and that’s OK. It’s best to be authentic instead of telling schools what you think they want to hear.
2. Be reflective . Think about how you’ve changed during high school. How have you grown and improved? What makes you feel ready for college, and how do you hope to contribute to the campus community and society at large?
3. Look to the future. Consider your reasons for attending college. What do you hope to gain from your education? What about college excites you the most, and what would you like to do after you graduate? Answering these questions will not only give colleges insight into the kind of student you’ll be, but it will also give you the personal insight you’ll need to choose the school that’s right for you.
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A Helpful Guide on How to Start an Essay
Writing essays is a common part of many students’ lives, especially if they pursue higher education. Many college courses place hefty emphasis on essays. Their content, length, research, writing, and revision will often form large portions of many college students’ curricular efforts, one semester at a time.
Knowing how to properly write an essay is an invaluable skill. Not only does it ensure the papers are properly written, it also helps establish life skills involving research, critical thinking, and time management. As with most projects, the best place to start with an essay is the beginning.
As obvious as that sounds, a strong start will help ensure a strong finish. Though it will take more than just a good start to complete a strong essay, everyone needs to begin somewhere.
We reached out to the popular essay writing service Write My Essays for advice. After all, who understands how to write an essay better than a professional essay writer?
Review the directions
This may seem obvious, but before starting the essay, it’s important to review the directions provided by the professor. The directions should include all the important points, such as spacing, fonts, and the expected layout of the content.
The contents will depend on the subject. Different fields use different methods of citation for their sources, as one example, and that needs to be taken into account. Understanding the guidelines will help direct focus and energy in the right direction, ensuring time isn’t wasted on improper settings or sources.
The amount of detail within the directions can vary greatly, depending on the level of the course, the subject matter, and the inclination of the professor. Do not be afraid to ask for advice from on-campus resources or the professor themselves to ensure the directions are fully and properly understood.
Make an outline
Before working on the paper itself, it is a good idea to create an outline. This might be a part of the assignment requirements, even, or possibly an assignment all its own. Regardless, outlining the essay’s contents and key points will make writing the essay easier.
Outlines aren’t for everyone, but even if they are not required, they are also a useful tool. Having an idea of the direction of the essay before writing it will help with the writing process and makes for a handy way to start the work before the essay is even written.
Format the document
Before actually writing the essay, formatting the document to the required guidelines first will save a lot of time and effort on fixing issues during the revision process. Revising is arduous enough without having to take typesetting issues into account, especially with how easy document formatting has become.
Standard requirements for an essay are an easy-to-read font at a standard size like 12, with one-inch margins, indented paragraphs, and double spacing for ease of reading. Actually, requirements may vary, which is why it’s so important to review them, especially if working on multiple projects in different classes at the same time.
Set up the first page
Depending on the requirements, the first page may simply be a title page with the assignment, class number, and student’s name. Some of that information may be on a second page, with just the title on the first page. These pages generally do not count towards page lengths and are meant to help prevent padding.
Setting up the title page is part of formatting, but at least it’s finally putting words on a page. This is also a good point to save the document, ideally in a folder created for the various coursework of the related class so that it is easy to find, load, and, eventually, submit.
How to begin the paper
Finally, with the document formatted and necessary first page organized, the actual writing of the essay can begin. Presumably the required research and other pre-writing prep has been completed. So, it’s time to actually put some words to virtual paper and start writing the essay in earnest.
The question is how to start the paper, that is, the actual contents and not just the title or document itself. The guidelines from the professor might have some notes on this matter, and those should be adhered to when required. If the requirements lack such guidelines, the students have some freedom on how to open their essay.
Open with a quote
Oftentimes, a relevant quote, especially from a source cited throughout the essay, can help set the tone and ground the reader with what to expect. A proper quote will help set expectations and bring an idea of the content ahead in a quick and quirky format.
The quote also sets the tone, as previously mentioned. Serious issues will merit a more serious quote, while lighter subjects can get away with pithier wording. Depending on the subject, sources, and topic of the paper, the quote need not be from a serious source. As long as it is cited, a relevant book or movie quote could also be used to set the opening.
Pose a question
Another option to open the essay is with a question. This is a direct way to bring the main topic of the essay to the forefront, by immediately leading with the thesis question, the answer to which is generally the entire point of the essay.
This does not work for all essays, but the question need not be that powerful. A simpler question to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into the topic at hand can work just as well. Just like with an opening quote, the question sets the tone and leads into the introductory paragraph, which is generally a basic summary of the essay as a whole.
Also as with a quote, the question can be as serious or irreverent as possible when writing scholastic works, depending on the subject matter, the class, and, occasionally, the demeanor of the professor. Though it is ill advised to think about it too much, at the end of the day, most essays are read by two people, and only two people: the student who wrote them, and the professor who reads and grades them accordingly.
Start with the Thesis Statement
It will need to be stated in the introductory paragraph anyway, and beginning with it can provide a strong hook to the start of an essay. While the first paragraph is an essential foundation for the essay, the thesis statement is the base for the first paragraph and the assignments as a whole.
The thesis statement states the thesis of the essay, hence the name. The sooner it is mentioned, the better, and, as with many aspects of the paper, it will likely be mentioned in the guidelines for the essay. Either way, starting with the thesis statement sets a strong tone for the rest of the paper.
Such a strong start can be a little daunting to live up to over the course of finishing the essay, but if that turns out to be the case, it can be moved. If nothing else, though, starting with the thesis statement gets it stated quickly and efficiently.
The introductory paragraph
The first paragraph of an essay is usually referred to as the introductory paragraph. This paragraph, as previously noted, is extremely important for the essay. It provides the reader with a basic summary of the essay’s contents. From the original question, hypothesis, thesis statement, antithesis, theory, synthesis, and potentially even cited sources, this paragraph sets the tone for the entire paper.
That is a lot of pressure to put on the beginning of an essay, but it also helps guide the direction of the essay moving forward. Along with tone, it is a handy reference for the rest of the essay. The reader, i.e., the professor, will expect the paper to follow the outline set forth in the first paragraph.
Though the introductory paragraph is the first and most important aspect of an essay in several regards, it is also the easiest to revise. If the sources and data take the paper in a direction different from what was originally intended, then the first paragraph is relatively easy to adjust to fit the new information.
As with other aspects of the essay, the assignment brief may have instructions on how to format the introductory paragraph, as well as potential guidelines regarding its contents. This will help with writing the first paragraph, and thus starting the essay, a little easier.
Conclusion
Depending on the chosen course load, essays will likely be a large part of a student’s work throughout their academic career. Learning how to properly plan, format, write, and revise essays will help ensure an easier time over the semesters and years.
Eventually, writing essays will become second nature thanks to the developed skills. Still, with each essay, turning a blank document into a completed and submitted assignment can be a daunting prospect.
With proper planning, review of the sources and assignment description, and a good handle on the thesis statement, starting an essay can become as second nature as writing the overall essay. With various ways to begin, mixing it up every now and then will also help fight the tedious nature such papers can garner after the tenth time, and beyond.
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How to make a video essay: A guide for beginners
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What type of content do you primarily create?
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Video essays are an incredibly popular genre on YouTube, and many new creators are eager to have their views heard on topics in culture and politics. But making a video essay involves a lot more than just sitting in front of a camera and pressing record. This guide is intended for beginners who don’t quite know where to start.
What is a video essay?
A video essay’s primary defining feature is that it sets out to make an argument. It is, to put it simply, like an essay you wrote in school. Video essays often cover politics, popular media, or science.
But unlike the essays you wrote in school, video essays need extensive visual accompaniment, whether that’s footage (or B-roll ), still images, or animation.
Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Craft a thesis
Good video essays will have a central thesis explored throughout the piece. If you can’t summarize your thesis in a sentence (sometimes two), you’ve still got work to do. The best theses immediately leave the viewer wanting to know more. Test it on friends: If you state your thesis to friends and get reactions of curiosity or excitement you’re on to something.
Consider one of my favorite video essays, whose thesis is right in the title: "Why Snowpiercer is a sequel to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory."
Sometimes, a thesis is a little more subtle, but nonetheless important. In Yhara Zayd’s video on horror movies, she argues that horror has always been a genre for social criticism.
The rest of your video isn’t just proving that thesis, though that’s important. You'll want to explore the twists and turns of the idea. What questions does your thesis raise? What are the big doubts about your thesis, and how do you address them? How can we zoom out from your thesis and ask even bigger questions?
Step 2: Determine your audience
Your audience will dictate what level of complexity and detail you should cover in your video. If you’re an engineering channel, maybe you want to appeal to working engineers who understand the jargon of the profession. But if you’d like a broader audience, you’ll need to take the time to define terms and give background information. The best video essays usually appeal to both—their topics are unique enough to be interesting to people with prior knowledge of the topic, while accessible enough to be understood to a casual viewer.
Step 3: Organize your research early
Your video essay should have lots of supporting evidence. Aside from the usual list of articles and books, video essays can also use visual evidence.
If you’re commenting on media, that means hyper-specific shots and lines of dialogue. If you’re commenting on history, that means old news clips. Filmed interviews are a great resource regardless of the topic.
Whenever I'm trying to cover a show, I’ll watch the show (sometimes twice), take extensive notes, pause to write out lines of dialogue, and mark where specific moments supported various themes, motifs, or ideas.
I've always regretted telling myself I’d remember a specific line or shot because I'd find myself spending an hour to hunt it down later in the process.
Whether you’re commenting on news footage, video games, or film and TV, I cannot stress enough how much extensive notetaking will improve your video essay later in the process.
The same advice goes for any books or news articles you might cite: annotate extensively and cite them in your piece.
Step 4: Familiarize yourself with "fair use"
Many video essays source footage from the news, TV, and film without licensing them. I'm not here to give advice on the legality of that, but I do think any video essayist should familiarize themselves with fair use .
Fair use is a set of criteria that a creator can use to defend their use of copyrighted work. It's not a license to freely use copyrighted work if you think you fit those standards; it’s a series of tests a judge should weigh in court.
Usually, it doesn’t come to that. Most copyright issues go through YouTube’s copyright claim system , which you should also read up on. A film studio may claim your content, or block it altogether, for using their copyrighted material. YouTube allows you to appeal these claims , but if both parties won’t give up, the question can only be settled by a judge (in the US, at least).
Step 5: Start your script
Be sure to use a two-column script, rather than just writing out everything as if it were a traditional essay.
In one column, you’re writing what you’re saying, or what the footage is saying. In the other, write what you plan to show. Your notes here should be specific enough to help you later in the editing process. You may want to add a third column for notes, or sources to cite later.
Writing a video essay follows some different rules than what your English teacher might have expected. Most video essays use a conversational style, and include words, phrases, and grammar that would never fly with the written word. Sometimes that includes filler words, like starting a sentence with “so” or putting an “um” for effect. Just don’t overdo it.
Other writing rules still apply. Be concise, use active verbs, and otherwise just make sure you sound like a human.
Step 6: Film (or record)
You don’t need a $10,000 filming setup to make good video essays. Plenty of people start with just a microphone, completely avoiding the camera altogether in what's known as a faceless YouTube video .
The two most important things to recommend: get good sound, and be natural. People can tolerate a lot of visual sins, but usually won’t put up with bad audio quality. Similarly, you don’t need to have the charisma of a talk show host, but people have no tolerance for on-screen performances that seem forced or fake.
That is all to say, get a decent microphone and be yourself. If you’re on-screen, buy a cheap teleprompter setup for your phone or camera.
Step 7: Start editing
There are many options for video editing software out there (and Descript is a great one), even for people with limited video editing experience. This article isn’t long enough to be an editing guide , but a few quick tips for a true novice:
- Don’t linger on any one visual for too long. Instead, mix up the visual interest of your video.
- Emphasize important concepts with text on screen.
- Take the time to learn a little about color grading .
- Clean up any noticeable background noise .
Step 8: Figure out your title and thumbnail
This may be the last step of this article, but it should often begin while you’re brainstorming. Your title and thumbnail should generate intrigue without giving it all away. Video essays often lean on titles with “How” and “Why.” Lessons from the Screenplay is a good example:
But video essays can also make provocative statements that make the viewer curious about how you’ll back it up. Consider Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell’s “ Smoking is Awesome ,” which I promise is not pro-tobacco.
Step 9: Publish
Finally, it's time to put your video out into the world and see how it fares. Your first video essay won't be perfect. It's important to put your work in public, take in feedback, and move on to your next project. Like all things, skill comes with time.
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How to cite ChatGPT
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We, the APA Style team, are not robots. We can all pass a CAPTCHA test , and we know our roles in a Turing test . And, like so many nonrobot human beings this year, we’ve spent a fair amount of time reading, learning, and thinking about issues related to large language models, artificial intelligence (AI), AI-generated text, and specifically ChatGPT . We’ve also been gathering opinions and feedback about the use and citation of ChatGPT. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and shared ideas, opinions, research, and feedback.
In this post, I discuss situations where students and researchers use ChatGPT to create text and to facilitate their research, not to write the full text of their paper or manuscript. We know instructors have differing opinions about how or even whether students should use ChatGPT, and we’ll be continuing to collect feedback about instructor and student questions. As always, defer to instructor guidelines when writing student papers. For more about guidelines and policies about student and author use of ChatGPT, see the last section of this post.
Quoting or reproducing the text created by ChatGPT in your paper
If you’ve used ChatGPT or other AI tools in your research, describe how you used the tool in your Method section or in a comparable section of your paper. For literature reviews or other types of essays or response or reaction papers, you might describe how you used the tool in your introduction. In your text, provide the prompt you used and then any portion of the relevant text that was generated in response.
Unfortunately, the results of a ChatGPT “chat” are not retrievable by other readers, and although nonretrievable data or quotations in APA Style papers are usually cited as personal communications , with ChatGPT-generated text there is no person communicating. Quoting ChatGPT’s text from a chat session is therefore more like sharing an algorithm’s output; thus, credit the author of the algorithm with a reference list entry and the corresponding in-text citation.
When prompted with “Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that although the two brain hemispheres are somewhat specialized, “the notation that people can be characterized as ‘left-brained’ or ‘right-brained’ is considered to be an oversimplification and a popular myth” (OpenAI, 2023).
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
You may also put the full text of long responses from ChatGPT in an appendix of your paper or in online supplemental materials, so readers have access to the exact text that was generated. It is particularly important to document the exact text created because ChatGPT will generate a unique response in each chat session, even if given the same prompt. If you create appendices or supplemental materials, remember that each should be called out at least once in the body of your APA Style paper.
When given a follow-up prompt of “What is a more accurate representation?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that “different brain regions work together to support various cognitive processes” and “the functional specialization of different regions can change in response to experience and environmental factors” (OpenAI, 2023; see Appendix A for the full transcript).
Creating a reference to ChatGPT or other AI models and software
The in-text citations and references above are adapted from the reference template for software in Section 10.10 of the Publication Manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, Chapter 10). Although here we focus on ChatGPT, because these guidelines are based on the software template, they can be adapted to note the use of other large language models (e.g., Bard), algorithms, and similar software.
The reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:
- Parenthetical citation: (OpenAI, 2023)
- Narrative citation: OpenAI (2023)
Let’s break that reference down and look at the four elements (author, date, title, and source):
Author: The author of the model is OpenAI.
Date: The date is the year of the version you used. Following the template in Section 10.10, you need to include only the year, not the exact date. The version number provides the specific date information a reader might need.
Title: The name of the model is “ChatGPT,” so that serves as the title and is italicized in your reference, as shown in the template. Although OpenAI labels unique iterations (i.e., ChatGPT-3, ChatGPT-4), they are using “ChatGPT” as the general name of the model, with updates identified with version numbers.
The version number is included after the title in parentheses. The format for the version number in ChatGPT references includes the date because that is how OpenAI is labeling the versions. Different large language models or software might use different version numbering; use the version number in the format the author or publisher provides, which may be a numbering system (e.g., Version 2.0) or other methods.
Bracketed text is used in references for additional descriptions when they are needed to help a reader understand what’s being cited. References for a number of common sources, such as journal articles and books, do not include bracketed descriptions, but things outside of the typical peer-reviewed system often do. In the case of a reference for ChatGPT, provide the descriptor “Large language model” in square brackets. OpenAI describes ChatGPT-4 as a “large multimodal model,” so that description may be provided instead if you are using ChatGPT-4. Later versions and software or models from other companies may need different descriptions, based on how the publishers describe the model. The goal of the bracketed text is to briefly describe the kind of model to your reader.
Source: When the publisher name and the author name are the same, do not repeat the publisher name in the source element of the reference, and move directly to the URL. This is the case for ChatGPT. The URL for ChatGPT is https://chat.openai.com/chat . For other models or products for which you may create a reference, use the URL that links as directly as possible to the source (i.e., the page where you can access the model, not the publisher’s homepage).
Other questions about citing ChatGPT
You may have noticed the confidence with which ChatGPT described the ideas of brain lateralization and how the brain operates, without citing any sources. I asked for a list of sources to support those claims and ChatGPT provided five references—four of which I was able to find online. The fifth does not seem to be a real article; the digital object identifier given for that reference belongs to a different article, and I was not able to find any article with the authors, date, title, and source details that ChatGPT provided. Authors using ChatGPT or similar AI tools for research should consider making this scrutiny of the primary sources a standard process. If the sources are real, accurate, and relevant, it may be better to read those original sources to learn from that research and paraphrase or quote from those articles, as applicable, than to use the model’s interpretation of them.
We’ve also received a number of other questions about ChatGPT. Should students be allowed to use it? What guidelines should instructors create for students using AI? Does using AI-generated text constitute plagiarism? Should authors who use ChatGPT credit ChatGPT or OpenAI in their byline? What are the copyright implications ?
On these questions, researchers, editors, instructors, and others are actively debating and creating parameters and guidelines. Many of you have sent us feedback, and we encourage you to continue to do so in the comments below. We will also study the policies and procedures being established by instructors, publishers, and academic institutions, with a goal of creating guidelines that reflect the many real-world applications of AI-generated text.
For questions about manuscript byline credit, plagiarism, and related ChatGPT and AI topics, the APA Style team is seeking the recommendations of APA Journals editors. APA Style guidelines based on those recommendations will be posted on this blog and on the APA Style site later this year.
Update: APA Journals has published policies on the use of generative AI in scholarly materials .
We, the APA Style team humans, appreciate your patience as we navigate these unique challenges and new ways of thinking about how authors, researchers, and students learn, write, and work with new technologies.
American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000
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Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Raygun, displayed some … unique moves as she competed in a field with breakers half her age. The judges and the internet were underwhelmed.
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By Dodai Stewart and Talya Minsberg
Reporting from Paris
Breaking made its debut as an Olympic sport Friday, and among the competitors was Dr. Rachael Gunn, also known as B-girl Raygun, a 36-year-old professor from Sydney, Australia, who stood out in just about every way.
By day, her research interests include “dance, gender politics, and the dynamics between theoretical and practical methodologies.” But on the world’s stage in Paris, wearing green track pants and a green polo shirt instead of the street-style outfits of her much younger fellow breakers, she competed against the 21-year-old Logan Edra of the United States, known as Logistx.
During the round robin, as Raygun and Logistx faced off, Raygun laid on her side, reached for her toes, spun around, and threw in a kangaroo hop — a nod to her homeland. She performed a move that looked something like swimming and another that could best be described as duckwalking. The high-speed back and head spins that other breakers would demonstrate were mostly absent.
The crowd cheered Raygun politely. The judges weren’t as kind. All nine voted for Logistx in both rounds of the competition; Logistx won, 18-0.
Online, Raygun’s performance quickly became a sensation, not necessarily in a flattering way.
“The more I watch the videos of Raygun, the Aussie breaker, the more I get annoyed,” one viewer posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “There’s 27.7 million Australians in the world and that’s who they send to the Olympics for this inaugural event??? C’mon now!”
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Rachael Gunn, known as B-girl Raygun, displayed some … unique moves as she competed in a field with breakers half her age. The judges and the internet were underwhelmed.