The Clickbait Title Formula
Listicles (Numbers and Benefits)
“X [Actionable Steps, Tips, or Reasons] to [Achieve Desired Outcome]”
Example: “5 Ways to Boost your Productivity Today”
Example: “10 Reasons Your Marketing Strategy Isn’t Working”
Transformation or Revelation Titles
“The Moment I [Experienced X] and [What Happened Next]”
Example: “The Moment I [Experienced X] and [What Happened Next]”
Example: “The Day I Started Over—and Why You Should too”
Struggles and Solutions
“Why You’re Struggling with ;Problem]—and How to Fix It”
Example: “Why You’re Stuck in a Rut—and 3 Ways to Break Free”
Example: “Why Your Videos Aren’t Getting Views—and What You’re Missing”
Time-Base Hooks
“How to [Achieve Goal] in [Timeframe]”
Example: “How to Learn a New Skill in 30 Days”
Example: “How I turned My Side Hustle into $10K in 6 Months”
Contrast Titles (Before vs. After)
“What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business”
Example: “What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business”
Example: “What Nobody tells You About Content Creation”
Open Loops (Unfinished Stories)
“When [Situation Happens], This is What You Should Do”
Example: “When You’re Starting from Scratch, Here’s How To Build Momentum”
Example: “When You Feel Like Giving Up, Remember this”
Provocative or Challenging Statements
“You’re Doing [X] Wrong—and Here’s Why”
Example: “You’re Managing Your Tune All Wrong—And It’s Killing Your Results”
Example:”You’re not Using Social media Right—Here’s the fix.
Bonus Tips for Making These Titles Work:
Emotion: Use words like “Shocking”, “Surprising”, or “Unexpected”.
Example: “The Shocking Truth About Productivity Hacks”
Specificity: Be clear and direct about what’s in it for the audience.
Example: “How to Save $500 a Month Without Cutting Out Fun”
Mystery: Leave just enough unanswered to pull them in.
Example: “Why I quit My 9-to-5 Job—and What Happened Next”
