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What Is a Writing Title and Why It Matters: In-Depth Analysis

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

The Importance of a Writing Title: Grabbing the Reader’s Attention from the Start

Defining a writing title: what it is and how it works for your article, how the right writing title can boost the success of your piece, why the right writing title can boost the success of your piece, analyzing the key elements of an effective writing title, elements to consider in an effective writing title, crafting an eye-catching writing title: tips and tricks, the role of keywords in writing titles: optimizing for search engines, strategies to captivate your audience with a riveting writing title, harnessing the power of a well-crafted writing title: a step towards success, frequently asked questions, in conclusion.

When it comes to writing, you might think that the title is just a small part of the overall content. However, you couldn’t be more wrong! The title of your piece plays a crucial role in attracting and engaging your readers from the very beginning. A captivating title is like a magnet that pulls people in and makes them want to explore what lies within your words. Here’s why a well-crafted title should never be underestimated:

• First Impressions Matter: Your title is often the first thing that catches a reader’s eye. Just like meeting someone for the first time, a strong title leaves a lasting impression. It sparks curiosity and makes the reader want to delve further into your work.
• Relevant and Informative: A well-chosen title concisely summarizes the essence of your writing. It provides a glimpse into what readers can expect, setting the stage for the content to come. It should be relevant, accurately reflecting the main theme and capturing the core message of your work.

However, grabbing attention is not the only purpose of a captivating title. It also serves the practical function of making your work more discoverable. When writing online, where content is abundant, a title that stands out can greatly increase the chances of your piece being noticed and clicked on. So, don’t underestimate the power of a compelling title! Spend time brainstorming and crafting one that captures the essence of your writing and entices readers to embark on a captivating journey through your words.

Choosing the perfect writing title is crucial, as it sets the tone for your entire article and captures the interest of your readers. It serves as a concise summary that gives them a glimpse into what the content holds. An effective writing title should be descriptive, intriguing, and relevant to the subject matter. It should convey the main idea of your article in a catchy and memorable way.

When crafting a writing title, consider the following key factors. Firstly, it should accurately reflect the content and be specific enough to avoid misleading readers. Avoid generic titles that fail to give readers a clear idea of what they can expect to read. Secondly, a successful title is concise yet attention-grabbing. It should capture readers’ attention and make them want to delve further into the article. Lastly, incorporating keywords relevant to your topic can enhance the title’s visibility on search engines and help attract the right audience to your article.

To create an engaging writing title, you can experiment with different techniques. One effective approach is using strong action words or power verbs that convey a sense of urgency or excitement. Another method is using intriguing questions or thought-provoking statements that pique readers’ curiosity. Additionally, employing literary devices such as alliteration, metaphors, or puns can make your title more memorable and enjoyable. Remember, crafting an effective writing title takes time and brainstorming, but the effort will be rewarded with increased readership and engagement.

Crafting the perfect writing title is often underestimated but plays a crucial role in determining the success of your piece. A well-crafted title serves as the initial hook that captures your readers’ attention and entices them to explore further. It is the first impression that can make or break your content’s visibility and engagement. So, what makes a title stand out and boost the success of your piece? Let’s delve into the key reasons:

• Grabbing attention: An intriguing and eye-catching title piques readers’ curiosity, compelling them to click and read your content. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question, a captivating statement, or using power words, a title that grabs attention increases the likelihood of your content being read and shared.
• Setting expectations: A well-written title conveys what your piece is about, setting clear expectations for readers. This helps them evaluate whether the content aligns with their interests and needs. When your title accurately represents the content, readers are more likely to continue reading, resulting in higher engagement and satisfaction.
• Improving search engine visibility: Crafting a title that strategically incorporates relevant keywords can improve your content’s search engine optimization (SEO). When your title includes relevant keywords, it becomes more likely to rank higher in search engine results , driving organic traffic to your piece and increasing its chances of success.

Avoid underestimating the significance of creating an impactful writing title. By grabbing attention, setting expectations, and improving search engine visibility, you can boost the success of your piece and ensure that it reaches your intended audience effectively.

An effective writing title plays a crucial role in catching the reader’s attention and engaging them from the start. To ensure your title stands out and effectively represents your content, consider these key elements:

• Relevance: A title must be relevant to the content it represents. It should clearly reflect the main topic, theme, or message of your writing. This helps the reader understand what to expect and whether the piece aligns with their interests.
• Conciseness: A concise title is powerful. It should be succinct while conveying the essence of your writing. Avoid lengthy or convoluted phrases that may confuse the reader or dilute the impact of your title. Opt for concise wording that piques curiosity without divulging too much.
• Clarity: Clarity is vital to ensure your title is easily understood. Choose words and phrases that are clear, specific, and straightforward. Aim for simplicity without sacrificing the depth or complexity of your writing. A clear title helps readers navigate your content with ease.
• Originality: In a sea of content, originality is a game-changer. A unique and creative title grabs attention and stands out from the crowd. It should give readers a sense of your distinct perspective, enticing them to explore the ideas presented in your writing.

By carefully considering these elements, you can craft an effective writing title that captivates your audience and sets the tone for the rest of your piece. Remember, a well-crafted title has the power to intrigue, inform, and entice readers to delve deeper into your content.

When it comes to grabbing the attention of readers, a compelling title can make all the difference. Whether you’re writing an article, blog post, or even a social media caption, a well-crafted title can draw people in and make them eager to read what you have to say. To help you create eye-catching titles that captivate your audience, here are some tips and tricks to consider:

• Be concise and impactful: Keep your title short and sweet, focusing on the most enticing aspects of your content. By using powerful words and including keywords that resonate with your target audience, you can instantly grab their attention and make them curious.
• Use numbers and lists: Including numbers in your title not only adds a sense of structure but also implies that your content is organized and easy to digest. A title like “7 Essential Tips for…” or “Top 10 Secrets to…” immediately signals value and piques curiosity.
• Evoke emotion: Appeal to the emotions of your readers by using words that trigger their curiosity, excitement, or even a sense of urgency. Crafting a title that sparks an emotional response can entice readers to click and dive into your content.

By incorporating these tips and tricks into your title creation process, you can greatly increase the chances of your writing capturing the attention it deserves. Remember, a well-crafted title not only sets the tone for your content but also acts as a gateway to your ideas, making it a crucial element in engaging your readers.

When it comes to writing titles for online content, incorporating keywords is essential for optimizing your content for search engines. Keywords are words or phrases that people use when searching for information on a specific topic. By including relevant keywords in your title, you increase the chances of your content being found by search engines and ranking higher in search results.

One important aspect of using keywords in titles is to ensure they accurately reflect the content of your article or blog post. Search engines are becoming increasingly sophisticated at understanding context and relevance, so it’s crucial to use keywords that are not just popular, but also directly related to your content. This not only helps with search engine optimization (SEO) but also enhances the user experience by providing them with accurate and useful information. When selecting keywords for your title, it’s a good practice to perform keyword research to identify the most relevant and frequently searched terms in your niche. Using tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush can provide valuable insights into popular keywords and help you choose the ones that align best with your content.

Strategies to Engage Your Audience with a Compelling Writing Title

Diving deeper into the art of crafting attention-grabbing writing titles, we unravel effective strategies that will captivate your audience from the get-go. By following these proven techniques, you can ensure that your content stands out and resonates with your readers on a deeper level.

1. Brainstorm impactful keywords: Start by brainstorming a list of powerful keywords that accurately represent the core message of your content. Consider the emotions you want to evoke in your readers or the problem you aim to solve. These keywords will serve as the foundation for your catchy title.

2. Incorporate curiosity: Humans are naturally curious creatures. By adding an element of mystery or posing a captivating question in your writing title, you can instantly pique the interest of your audience. For example, “Unlock the Secrets Behind Human Psychology: How Do Our Brains Really Work?” .

3. Craft it with brevity: A succinct and to-the-point writing title can often make a stronger impact than a lengthy one. Aim to convey the essence of your content in as few words as possible, while still maintaining clarity. Boldly condense your ideas into a concise title that draws the reader in.

4. Utilize vivid language: Inject your writing title with vivid and descriptive language that paints a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. Invoke emotions and sensory details to engage your audience right from the start. For instance, “Unleash Your Inner Creativity: Ignite a Symphony of Imagination.”

With these strategies under your belt, you are armed with the tools to craft compelling writing titles that hook your audience and leave them hungry to consume your content. Experiment, have fun, and let your creativity soar as you uncover the power of the perfectly crafted title.

Creating a captivating and effective writing title is a strategic move that can greatly impact the success of your content. A well-crafted title acts as a gateway, capturing the attention of your readers and enticing them to delve into your writing. Here are some key points to consider when harnessing the power of a well-crafted writing title:

• Make it concise and specific: A title that is too lengthy can be overwhelming and lose its impact. Instead, focus on crafting a title that succinctly conveys the essence of your content. Specificity is key, as it ensures that your target audience knows exactly what to expect.
• Incorporate keywords: Including relevant keywords in your title can greatly improve its visibility in search engines. Research popular keywords related to your topic and try to organically integrate them into the title, making it both informative and optimized for search engine optimization (SEO).
• Utilize curiosity and intrigue: Engaging your readers’ curiosity is an effective way to make your title stand out. Consider incorporating a question, a provocative statement, or a unique angle that piques their interest.

Mastering the art of crafting compelling writing titles takes time and practice, but the rewards are well worth the effort. A well-executed title can attract more readers, improve the visibility of your content, and ultimately lead to greater success in your writing endeavors. Remember to experiment, analyze the impact of different titles, and always keep your target audience in mind as you venture into the realm of powerful writing titles.

Q: What is a writing title and why does it matter? A: A writing title is the headline or name given to a piece of writing, such as an article, blog post, or essay. It serves as the first point of contact that readers have with your work. A well-crafted title can capture their attention, pique their curiosity, and compel them to read further. In essence, the title sets the stage for your content and can significantly impact its success.

Q: How does a writing title impact the overall success of an article? A: The writing title plays a vital role in determining whether or not your article will be read. It acts as a gateway to your content, influencing a reader’s decision to click on your link or scroll past it. An engaging and attention-grabbing title can significantly increase the number of people who choose to read your article. On the other hand, a bland or poorly chosen title may leave your words unnoticed, regardless of how remarkable your writing might be.

Q: What are the key elements of an effective writing title? A: An effective writing title should be concise, yet descriptive enough to give readers a clear idea of what to expect from the article. It should also utilize strong, compelling language that evokes an emotional response or creates intrigue. Additionally, including relevant keywords or phrases can help your article rank higher in search engine results. Crafting a unique title that stands out from the competition is equally important, as it helps your article to be distinct and memorable.

Q: Does the length of a writing title matter? A: Yes, the length of a writing title does matter. Roughly 50-60 characters is considered the optimal length for a title, as it allows for easy readability and avoids truncation in search engine results. Titles that are too long may appear cluttered or overwhelming, while overly short titles might not provide enough context or fail to capture attention. Sticking to a concise and focused title length can greatly enhance the overall impact of your writing.

Q: How can writers create effective writing titles? A: Crafting effective writing titles requires careful consideration and creativity. Start by identifying the main theme or core message of your article. Then, brainstorm attention-grabbing phrases or keywords related to your content. Experiment with different combinations, wordplay, or even posing a question to pique curiosity. It may be helpful to seek input from others or conduct some research to understand how effective titles in your niche are constructed. Finally, analyze and revise your title until it accurately represents your content and has a captivating appeal.

Q: Are there any common mistakes to avoid when creating writing titles? A: Yes, there are a few common mistakes to avoid when creating writing titles. Firstly, avoid misleading or clickbait titles as they may lead to disappointment and damage your credibility. Additionally, be cautious of dense or jargon-filled titles that could confuse readers rather than entice them. Lastly, refrain from using overly generic titles that fail to distinguish your content from others. Striving for clarity, relevance, and uniqueness will help you steer clear of these common pitfalls.

Q: Can writing titles be changed or revised after an article is published? A: In most cases, writing titles can be changed or revised even after an article is published. For online platforms, it is common practice to optimize titles over time, especially if the initial title isn’t generating the desired engagement. However, major changes to a title after publication may require consultation with an editor or considerations for potential SEO implications. It’s important to strike a balance between making improvements and maintaining consistency with the article’s content and overall tone.

Q: How can writers measure the effectiveness of their writing titles? A: Measuring the effectiveness of writing titles can be done by monitoring key metrics such as click-through rates, time spent on page, or social media engagement. These metrics offer insights into how well your titles are resonating with readers and whether they are successfully driving traffic to your content. Additionally, seeking feedback from readers or observing the response to your titles within your specific writing community can provide valuable feedback on their impact. Regularly evaluating and analyzing these indicators will help writers refine their skills in crafting impactful titles.

Q: In conclusion, why does the writing title matter and what should writers keep in mind? A: The writing title matters because it is the first point of contact readers have with your work and significantly impacts whether or not they choose to engage with it. A well-crafted title can attract attention, generate interest, and ultimately increase the readership of your article. Writers should aim for concise, descriptive, and unique titles that accurately reflect the content while sparking curiosity. By avoiding common mistakes and actively seeking feedback , writers can refine their title-writing skills and maximize the potential success of their articles.

In conclusion, a writing title is essential as it sets the tone, captures attention, and helps convey the main message of the piece.

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Title Generator

Unleash your creativity with our AI-powered title generator! Simply enter your text below and hit the button to get the perfect title.

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Our versatile tool is tailored to aid in crafting titles for a variety of texts. Ideal for different users like bloggers in search of eye-catching headlines, students working on essays, or professionals preparing detailed reports, it employs AI technology to generate a range of title options. This is possible through your input, ranging from a title idea or summary to your entire text.

This free service's AI is designed to generate titles closely aligned with your content's theme. The technology aims to grasp the essence of your text, offering titles that are not only unique but also relevant to your work. The goal is to provide titles that not only fit well with your content but also have the potential to engage your target audience effectively.

The service offers a simple and intuitive user experience. After inputting your text, the AI quickly produces several title options. You can easily copy these for immediate use or save them for later. The interface is straightforward, allowing for easy management of saved titles. If the initial titles aren't quite right, you have the option to generate additional suggestions.

Envisioned as more than just a simple tool, this tool is designed to be a collaborative partner in your writing process. It aims to enhance your work by providing well-suited and engaging title options that complement your content. We encourage you to experiment with the Title Generator to see how it might enhance your writing tasks and support your creative processes.

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Story Titles: Mastering the Art of Engaging First Impressions

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on September 7, 2023

Categories Writing , Creative Writing , Storytelling

Story titles are the first thing a reader encounters when discovering a new literary work. They have the power to intrigue, inspire, and even set the entire tone of the story. Understanding the essential elements of title creation is crucial for authors who want their work to reach the largest possible audience.

Good story titles shouldn’t only be catchy, they should also provide a glimpse into the core theme of the story, while evoking an emotional response from potential readers.

Creating compelling and evocative titles is both an art and a science. Authors must consider various factors, such as character, setting, genre, and keywords when crafting a title.

The writing process also plays an integral role, as authors may find inspiration for their title while developing the plot or characters.

Skilled title creators employ tools like humor, clever wordplay, and audience expectations to pique interest and entice their readers.

Key Takeaways

• Story titles are crucial for capturing readers’ attention and setting the tone.
• Successful title creation involves considering character, setting, genre, and keywords.
• Authors often find title inspiration during the writing process or by using tools like humor and wordplay.

Understanding Story Titles

When crafting a story, the title plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of your audience. It is important to understand the purpose of a title and how to create one that is both relevant and intriguing.

A well-constructed title sets the tone for your story and provides readers with a hint of what to expect. It should be concise, yet convey the essence of your narrative while piquing the interest of your target audience.

To create a captivating title, consider these factors:

• Clarity: Opt for a title that is easy to understand and remember. It should give readers a sense of what your story is about without requiring any additional explanation.
• Relevance: Your title should be closely connected to the main theme or central plot of your story. This will help your audience understand the purpose of your narrative and establish a sense of consistency throughout your work.
• Impact: Create a title that evokes emotion or curiosity. Use strong language or compelling imagery to make a lasting impression on your readers.

Remember, a well-chosen title has the power to draw attention and set your story apart from countless others. Taking the time to understand and develop a captivating title is well worth the effort, as it contributes significantly to the overall impact and success of your narrative.

Effect of Titles in Various Genres

In romance, titles play a crucial role in setting the mood and expectations of the target audience. They often include words that evoke emotions and passion, such as “love,” “heart,” or “kiss.” This helps readers identify the genre immediately. For example:

• Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
• The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

Fantasy titles often include elements of the storyline or world-building aspects to draw in the reader. This may involve terms related to magical creatures, kingdoms, or other elements of the fantastical setting. Examples include:

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
• A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Science fiction titles frequently showcase technological, futuristic, or extraterrestrial concepts. They capture the essence of imagining a different reality or timeline. Some successful sci-fi titles are:

• Neuromancer by William Gibson
• The Time Machine by H.G. Wells

Mystery titles tend to be intriguing and often reflect an element of suspense or surprise. They might include hints or clues about the central plot, leaving the reader with a desire to learn more. Notable examples:

• The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Adventure titles generally convey a sense of excitement and exploration, often featuring keywords around journeys, quests, or discovery. Titles in this genre aim to spark curiosity and inspire readers to follow the protagonist’s adventure. For instance:

• Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
• Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne

Horror titles focus on creating a sense of dread, apprehension, or fear. They might involve words or phrases that describe typical horror settings or supernatural beings to entice the reader. Some examples are:

• Dracula by Bram Stoker
• Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin

By understanding these genre-specific nuances, you can create effective story titles that encapsulate the essence of your narrative and capture the interest of your target audience.

Creating Book Titles

Creating a captivating book title is crucial for drawing readers to your story. A good book title should engage your audience’s curiosity and hint at your book’s content. Here are some strategies to help you generate unique book titles.

Free writing : One way to come up with book title ideas is to free write. Jot down any words, phrases, or concepts that come to mind related to your story. Don’t worry about organizing or filtering these ideas; the goal is to generate as many possibilities as possible. Afterward, you can review your list and combine elements that resonate with your story’s theme and tone.

Title generators : If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, consider using a book title generator. These tools can generate a diverse range of book titles and can be especially useful for specific genres, such as fantasy, science fiction, or nonfiction. Some popular book title generators include:

• Nonfiction Book Title Generator from SelfPublishing.com
• Fantasy Novel Title Generator
• Pulp Sci-Fi Title-O-Tron

By utilizing these generators, you can find inspiration that may lead to your perfect book title. Remember, you can always tweak and modify the generated titles to better suit your story.

Research similar book titles : Look at other books in your genre and see what kind of titles resonate with readers. This research will give you a better understanding of what works and doesn’t work for your target audience. Be careful not to copy existing titles, but use them as a springboard for generating your own unique book titles.

Get feedback : Share your book title ideas with friends, family, or writing groups. They might have suggestions or insights that you hadn’t considered. Be open to criticism and use their input to refine and improve your book titles.

No matter which method you choose, keep in mind that your book title should be intriguing, memorable, and relevant to your story. Experiment with different ideas, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. With some creativity and persistence, you’re sure to find the perfect title for your book.

Story Title Generation

When you’re in need of a compelling title for your story, a story title generator can be a valuable tool. These generators often come with a simple and user-friendly interface, featuring a generate button that allows you to quickly create unique, catchy titles. With just one click, you’ll be presented with a random story title that can kick-start your creative process and give your work an attention-grabbing name.

There are several advantages to using a story title generator. First, it can save you time and energy by providing a wide variety of title options in a matter of seconds. No more staring at a blank page, trying to come up with the perfect phrase to sum up your story! Just browse through the generated titles and pick one that resonates with your piece.

Another advantage is that a story title generator can inspire creativity by suggesting titles you might not have thought of otherwise. Sometimes, a randomly generated title can spark a new idea or direction for your story, helping you explore diverse and interesting narratives.

To get the most out of a story title generator, consider these tips:

• Keep an open mind: Even if the generated titles don’t sound perfect at first, they might still inspire a great idea or lead to a title that feels just right.
• Play around with keywords: Many generators let you input specific words or phrases, so experiment with different combinations to see what interesting titles you can create.
• Look for variations: If a generated title almost fits your story but needs some tweaks, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. The goal is to find a title that complements your work while still being engaging and memorable.

In conclusion, a story title generator can be an invaluable resource for writers looking to find the perfect name for their story. With its ease of use, creative inspiration, and the convenience it offers, you’ll be on your way to crafting an unforgettable title in no time. Happy writing!

The Influence of Main Characters on Titles

When crafting a story title, the main character often plays a significant role in the process. Strong and memorable titles can emerge from the protagonist’s name, personality traits, or central conflicts they face throughout the narrative.

Utilizing your main character’s name in the title can create an immediate connection between the reader and the protagonist.

Examples of this include classic novels such as “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë and “Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling. By featuring the main character’s name, the title conveys a sense of familiarity and suggests that the narrative will revolve around their unique perspective or journey.

Another approach involves highlighting the qualities or attributes of your main character. This can include personality traits, roles, or even physical characteristics.

A title like “The Reluctant Hero” underscores the nature of a character who is hesitant to embrace their destiny or accept their role in the story. By focusing on these aspects, you invite readers to explore how these traits influence the character’s actions and decisions, adding depth to their journey and engendering empathy.

Incorporating the main character’s core conflicts or struggles within the story title can also pique readers’ interest and set the stage for the narrative. For example, a title such as “The Time Traveler’s Dilemma” suggests that the protagonist grapples with the consequences or moral implications of their time-traveling abilities. By hinting at the central challenges faced by the characters, readers anticipate the hurdles and underlying themes they will encounter.

To effectively utilize main characters when developing story titles, consider their name, qualities, and central conflicts as possible touchpoints. By exploring these facets of your protagonist, you can create a captivating title that entices readers and reflects the essence of your narrative.

Incorporating Theme and Setting in Titles

When creating a story title that effectively captures theme and setting, it’s important to identify the key elements within your story that make it unique and engaging.

Theme refers to the underlying message or recurring ideas present throughout your story, while setting is the location and time period in which the story takes place. Incorporating these aspects into your title can make it more intriguing and reflective of the story’s content.

First, consider the theme of your story. Determine the central idea or message that you want to convey to your readers. Is it a story about love and loss, or about overcoming adversity? Identify the recurring motifs and symbols present within the narrative.

By incorporating elements of the theme into your title, your readers will have a better sense of the emotional journey they will embark upon.

Next, think about the setting of your story. Is it set in a specific location or time period that could be used as a focal point in your title? Descriptive words that evoke a sense of place or time can offer a hint of the atmosphere and surroundings that will be present within the story.

For example, naming a story “The Foggy Streets of London” immediately brings forth images of a specific time and place.

When combining theme and setting in a title, remember to keep it clear and concise. Aim for a title that is easy to remember and piques the interest of readers without giving away too much of the plot. Here are a few examples of titles that effectively incorporate theme and setting:

• “Pride and Prejudice” – A story about social class distinctions set in 19th-century England.
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” – A novel that addresses racial injustice in a small southern town.
• The Catcher in the Rye” – A coming-of-age story set in New York City.

Incorporating both theme and setting into your story title is a way to provide readers with a snapshot of the narrative. By focusing on the key ideas and sense of place present in your story, you can create a title that is engaging, highlights the essence of your work, and invites readers to dive into your world.

Role of Keywords in Titles

Incorporating keywords in your story titles plays a significant role in attracting readers and increasing visibility. As a writer, you should strive to make your titles stand out, especially in search results, where many potential readers will discover your work.

Using relevant keywords is essential in achieving this, as it helps boost your story’s search engine ranking and visibility.

When choosing keywords for your story title, consider what your target audience might be searching for. This could include the main theme, genre, or central idea of your story.

By including these in your title, you make it easier for readers to find your story in online searches, social media platforms, or digital libraries.

It’s crucial to strike a balance between using keywords effectively and keeping your title concise and engaging. To achieve this, you can:

• Use vital keywords that best represent your story’s content, without sacrificing readability.
• Keep the title length short, as longer titles may be cut off or disregarded in search results.
• Consider utilizing variations or synonyms of your chosen keywords to increase the chances of your story being discovered by different audiences.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you create titles that are not only search engine friendly but also appealing to readers.

By incorporating keywords in a clear and confident manner, your titles can effectively grab a reader’s attention and convey the essence of your story, increasing the likelihood of more readers enjoying your work.

The Writing Process

As a writer, you must be aware of the essential steps in the writing process. Having an engaging story title can pique your readers’ interest and set the tone for the rest of your work. Let’s look at the process you can follow to create a captivating story title.

Step 1: Brainstorm ideas Start by jotting down a list of potential titles. Don’t worry about finding the perfect title at this stage, focus on capturing your story’s theme, genre, and tone. You can draw inspiration from elements like the characters, plot, setting, or an impactful line from your story.

Step 2: Research Browse through royalty-free listings or download collections of titles from various sources. This can help you gain a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t. Take note of titles that capture your attention, and consider incorporating similar concepts or structures into your own title.

Step 3: Refine your options Narrow down your list by eliminating titles that don’t fit or aren’t engaging enough. Consider your target readers and what would appeal to them. Keep titles that are unique, thought-provoking, or evoke curiosity.

Step 4: Test your choices Share your shortlisted titles with a few trusted individuals, such as fellow writers or avid readers. Gather their feedback on which title resonates with them the most or represents the essence of your story. This step can provide valuable insights to help you make your final decision.

Step 5: Make the final decision After gathering feedback, choose the title you believe is the most engaging and fitting for your story. Ensure it is evocative and sets the right expectations for readers as they dive into your work.

Throughout this process, stay confident in your abilities and knowledge as a writer. Remember to keep your writing clear, neutral, and informative, so that your readers can enjoy a compelling and well-crafted story.

Finding Inspiration for Titles

Drawing inspiration for story titles can sometimes be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can generate captivating and memorable titles that not only grab readers’ attention but also give them a glimpse into your story.

Here are a few suggestions to help you find inspiration for your story titles.

First, consider the main theme or message of your story. What is the core idea or subject of your narrative? By identifying this, you can create a title that encapsulates the essence of your story, giving potential readers an idea of what to expect. This can be a powerful way to draw readers in and make them curious about what unfolds within your story.

Another way to find inspiration for your titles is by exploring your characters. Are there any distinctive traits or quirks your main character possesses? Think about how these could be incorporated into your title to give it a unique and personal touch. It could be their name, an adjective used to describe them or a nickname that defines their personality.

Similarly, the setting of your story can also serve as a source of inspiration. What locations, landscapes, or elements are significant to your story? These can be used to create a title that evokes the atmosphere and setting of your narrative. Reflect on the mood and tone of your story, and try to capture that feeling within your title.

A great method for coming up with title ideas is free writing. Spend some time jotting down any words, phrases, names, or adjectives that come to mind when thinking about your story. This process can help identify potential keywords or themes that you can later use to craft your title.

Lastly, take inspiration from existing book and story titles. Analyze the titles of popular books within your genre and identify patterns or elements that make them successful. By understanding what works for others, you can adapt those techniques and apply them to your own title.

Remember, your title should be confident, knowledgeable, and clear. Keep experimenting with different combinations and approaches until you find the perfect title that not only represents your story but also entices readers to dive into your world.

Making Use of Humor in Titles

Incorporating humor into your story titles can be a powerful way to engage readers and make your work stand out.

A humorous title sets a light-hearted tone and sparks curiosity, encouraging readers to explore your writing. Here are some tips for using humor effectively in your titles.

Firstly, consider your target audience and the kind of humor that will resonate with them. Different types of humor will appeal to different readers.

For instance, wordplay, puns, or witty references can make your title amusing while remaining sophisticated. Understanding your genre is crucial in choosing the appropriate style of humor for your story.

Next, keep it simple. A successful humorous title should be concise and easy to understand. Avoid excessively complicated jokes or references that could confuse the reader or make them feel left out.

Ensure that your humor is accessible, even to those who are not familiar with your genre or subject matter.

Remember to stay true to your story. While humor can be a fantastic tool, make sure your title still accurately reflects the content of your work.

A misleading title may disappoint readers who expect a different type of story. However, finding a way to incorporate humor that is relevant to your story can enhance the reader’s experience.

Lastly, don’t force it. As a writer, you need to trust your instincts and know when humor is appropriate. If a funny title doesn’t come naturally or feels out of place, opting for a non-humorous title might be a better choice.

A forced, awkward attempt at humor can be off-putting; it’s essential to maintain a genuine, natural voice for your title.

In summary, utilizing humor in your story titles can be a great way to draw in readers and set a fun, engaging tone for your work. Keep your humor relevant, accessible, and fitting to your target audience, and you’ll have a higher chance of making a lasting impression.

Impact of Titles on Children’s Books

When selecting a children’s book, the title plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of young readers. A well-crafted title can spark interest, inspire curiosity, and set the tone for the book. As you explore the significance of titles in children’s literature, consider incorporating some of these key factors.

Firstly, a compelling title should be engaging and memorable. Choosing a title that is catchy, rhymes, or includes repetition can help create a lasting impression.

By using simple language, you make the title more accessible and relevant to young readers. For instance, “Goodnight, Moon” is an easily remembered title that resonates with children and evokes a sense of familiarity.

Another important aspect is the connection between the title and the book’s content. Connecting the title to the story’s primary theme or main character will help children associate the book with its story. Carefully selected words can also provide a glimpse into the book’s setting, atmosphere, or genre.

For example, the title “The House at Pooh Corner” is specific to the book and would not apply to any other story, offering unique context and ensuring reader engagement.

Titles also have the potential to stimulate children’s imagination and provoke their curiosity. Providing a hint of mystery or a question to be solved, such as “The Secret,” can keep readers intrigued and eager to discover more.

Similarly, a title that expresses a sense of adventure, like “The Trap Door,” can excite young readers and encourage them to further explore the narrative.

Lastly, in some cases, the title may convey a message or value that is important to the overall narrative. An impactful title can connect with children on an emotional level, and subtly promote a positive lesson or idea that will enrich their reading experience.

In summary, the impact of titles on children’s books is significant, as it directly influences reader interest and engagement.

By considering key factors such as engagement, connection, curiosity, and message, you can craft a compelling title that resonates with your target audience. Remember that a captivating title is just the beginning of a great story that will leave a lasting impression on young readers.

Crafting Crime Story Titles

When creating titles for your crime stories, it’s crucial to first consider the essential elements of crime fiction such as mystery, intrigue, and tension. Try to craft a title that reflects the atmosphere and themes within your story.

Start by brainstorming key terms or phrases that relate to your story’s plot, characters, or setting. You can then develop a compelling title by combining these terms in an interesting way. For instance, incorporating your protagonist’s occupation or the location where the crime took place can spark intrigue.

To generate a list of potential titles, think about the following aspects of your crime story:

• The nature of the crime (e.g., murder, kidnapping, heist)
• The protagonist (e.g., detective, journalist, amateur sleuth)
• The setting (e.g., city, small town, historical period)
• A unique twist or hook (e.g., a secret society, an unusual weapon)

When you have a list of keywords, experiment with different combinations and structures for your titles. Here are a few title formats to get you started:

• “The [Adjective] [Noun]”: The Silent Witness, The Hidden Truth
• “A [Noun] of [Noun]”: A Game of Shadows, A Circle of Deception
• “The [Protagonist’s Occupation] and the [Noun]”: The Detective and the Crimson Key, The Reporter and the Vanishing Act

Remember to keep your title focused and concise while still being intriguing and evocative. You want readers to be curious about the story behind the title, so avoid being overly generic or predictable. Finally, once you have a list of potential titles, share them with friends or beta readers to get feedback and opinions. This can help you select the title that best represents your crime story and captures the attention of potential readers.

Saving Your Title Ideas

When you’re brainstorming story titles, it’s crucial to save your ideas in an organized manner. This way, you can easily refer back to them and choose the best option.

To start saving your title ideas, create a dedicated document or use a note-taking app. As you brainstorm, write down every title that comes to your mind, even those that may not seem perfect at the moment. Later on, you can refine and improve them.

You can also use the following methods to better structure your list of title ideas:

• Categorize the titles: Group your ideas based on themes, genres, or any other aspect that makes sense to you. This will make it easier for you to navigate and compare the titles.
• Prioritize the titles: Rank your ideas based on factors such as relevance, originality, and appeal. Assign a number or a label like “high,” “medium,” or “low” to each title, and use that as a reference when making your final decision.
• Use keywords: Identify the keywords that are particularly important or relevant to your story. Bold or highlight these words in your list of ideas to draw attention to the titles that incorporate them. This will help you focus on titles that effectively convey your story’s essence.

Once your ideas are well-organized, revisit them periodically. This will make it easier for you to refine, combine, or discard titles that don’t work. As you continue working on your story, you may also come up with new title ideas that you wouldn’t have thought of initially.

Ultimately, by saving and organizing your title ideas, you’ll have a valuable resource at your disposal when it’s time to select the perfect title for your story. Remember to be patient and confident in your ability to find the right title that accurately reflects your story’s themes and tone.

50 Title Seeds to Help Craft Your Next Title

Here are 50 “title seeds” or starting words that could help spark ideas for your next title:

• Revelations
• Transformation
• Breakthrough
• Behind the Scenes
• Confessions
• Exploration
• Imagination

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tips for creating engaging story titles.

To create engaging story titles, consider the following tips:

• Make it relevant to your story’s theme or plot.
• Use strong language or interesting words.
• Keep it short and memorable.
• Evoke curiosity or emotion.
• Test several options and ask for feedback.

How can I generate a unique title for my book?

You can generate a unique title for your book by:

• Brainstorming keywords related to your story.
• Combining or rephrasing words to create new phrases.
• Using wordplay, such as alliteration, metaphor, or puns.
• Considering cultural references, idioms, or famous quotes.
• Using online title generators for inspiration and further refinement.

What elements make a successful fantasy story title?

Successful fantasy story titles often:

• Reflect the story’s world or magical elements.
• Include creatures, objects, or places from the story.
• Convey a sense of wonder, adventure, or danger.
• Evoke the genre’s themes, such as heroism or destiny.
• Feel mysterious or intriguing.

How do you develop a captivating mystery title?

To develop a captivating mystery title:

• Use keywords related to crime, investigation, or secrets.
• Employ wordplay, like puns, or use metaphor to create intrigue.
• Make sure it reflects your story’s central mystery or plot.
• Create suspense or tension through language and phrasing.
• Test multiple options and gather feedback to find the most effective title.

What are some considerations for titling a Wattpad story?

When titling a Wattpad story, consider:

• Making the title stand out among many on the platform.
• Using relevant keywords to help readers find your story.
• Evoking the story’s key themes or genre to attract your target audience.
• Leaving room for ambiguity to spark curiosity.
• Making it easy to read, remember, and share.

How can I adapt a generator for specific story title ideas?

To adapt a generator for specific story title ideas:

• Modify generator settings or filters if available, such as length or genre.
• Make a list of keywords relevant to your story and input them into the generator.
• Combine or rephrase generated titles to better fit your story.
• Use the generated results as a starting point and experiment with your own ideas.
• Refine and test your top choices to find the best title.

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WEEKLY WRITING PROMPTS

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Begin or end your story with a character taking a selfie..

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Write about a character who sees a photo they shouldn’t have seen.

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Write a story about a character who risks their life to take a photo.

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Start your story with a character staring at a picture they don’t remember taking.

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Center your story around a photo that goes viral.

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Write a story where time functions differently to our world.

Write a story about a character who wakes up in space., write a story from the point of view of a non-human character., write a story with a strong sense of place. how is the setting of your world the same as, but different to, our own, write a story imagining 'what if' one historic invention had never happened. how would our world be different now, subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

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Start or end your story with a character who gets trapped inside a museum overnight.

Write about two characters who meet and/or fall in love in a museum., write about an art thief who is struggling to commit the perfect heist., write about someone who accidentally destroys a museum’s most valuable artifact., write about a gallery whose paintings come alive at night., write about a backstabbing (literal or metaphorical) gone wrong., start your story with an unexpected betrayal., set your story at a tense event where everyone is unsure whose side they’re on., write about someone who is stuck between two opposing sides and can’t decide which one to choose., write about someone who is convinced they’re going to be betrayed., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

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Creative Writing Prompts

When the idea to start a weekly newsletter with writing inspiration first came to us, we decided that we wanted to do more than provide people with topics to write about. We wanted to try and help authors form a regular writing habit and also give them a place to proudly display their work. So we started the weekly Creative Writing Prompts newsletter. Since then, Prompts has grown to a community of more than 450,000 authors, complete with its own literary magazine, Prompted .  

Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

Why we love creative writing prompts

If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

High School — Encourage teens to let their imaginations run free.

Want to submit your own story ideas to help inspire fellow writers? Send them to us here.

After you find the perfect story idea

Finding inspiration is just one piece of the puzzle. Next, you need to refine your craft skills — and then display them to the world. We've worked hard to create resources that help you do just that! Check them out:

• How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten-day course by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.
• Best Literary Magazines of 2023 — a directory of 100+ reputable magazines that accept unsolicited submissions.
• Writing Contests in 2023 — the finest contests of 2021 for fiction and non-fiction authors of short stories, poetry, essays, and more.

Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

While writing prompts are a great tactic to spark your creative sessions, a writer generally needs a couple more tools in their toolbelt when it comes to developing a rock-solid writing routine . To that end, here are a few more additional tips for incorporating your craft into your everyday life.

• NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Set word count goals. And make them realistic! Don’t start out with lofty goals you’re unlikely to achieve. Give some thought to how many words you think you can write a week, and start there. If you find you’re hitting your weekly or daily goals easily, keep upping the stakes as your craft time becomes more ingrained in your routine.
• Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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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:

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• 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.

👩‍🏫 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:

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• 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.

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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.

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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:

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.

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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Creative Writer Job Titles

Explore the most popular job titles, career levels, and alternative careers for Creative Writers

Getting Started as a Creative Writer

• What is a Creative Writer
• How to Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

Types of Creative Writer Jobs

Junior copywriter, content writer, technical writer, screenwriter.

• Creative Director

Creative Writer Job Title Hierarchy

Junior creative writer, editorial assistant, creative writer.

• Staff Writer
• Copy Editor

Scriptwriter

Senior creative writer.

• Senior Copywriter
• Lead Content Strategist
• Senior Editor

Creative Writing Manager

• Writing Team Lead
• Editorial Manager

Director of Creative Writing

• VP of Content
• Head of Creative Services
• Chief Content Officer

Top Creative Writer Job Titles by Level

Entry level job titles, scriptwriting assistant, mid level job titles, senior level job titles, director level job titles, director of content strategy, director of editorial content, director of scriptwriting, director of copywriting, vp level job titles, vice president of creative writing, vp of content strategy, vp of brand storytelling, vp of editorial content, vp of creative and content development, how to advance your current creative writer title, master diverse writing styles, build an engaging online presence, network with industry professionals, refine your editing skills, continue your writing education, pursue publication and awards, similar creative writer careers & titles, content strategist, faqs about creative writer titles, how do creative writer job titles vary across industries, are there any emerging job titles for creative writers that are gaining popularity, which creative writer job title has the highest salary potential.

Creative Writer Work-Life Balance

Related Job Title Guides

Crafting compelling narratives, engaging audiences with powerful words and ideas

Crafting compelling narratives to drive brand engagement and consumer action

Shaping narratives, refining content to captivate audiences and uphold brand voice

Bringing sports stories to life, capturing the thrill and passion of the game

Translating complex tech jargon into clear, user-friendly content, bridging knowledge gaps

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When you choose to publish with PLOS, your research makes an impact. Make your work accessible to all, without restrictions, and accelerate scientific discovery with options like preprints and published peer review that make your work more Open.

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• How to Write a Great Title

Maximize search-ability and engage your readers from the very beginning

Your title is the first thing anyone who reads your article is going to see, and for many it will be where they stop reading. Learn how to write a title that helps readers find your article, draws your audience in and sets the stage for your research!

How your title impacts the success of your article

Researchers are busy and there will always be more articles to read than time to read them.  Good titles help readers find your research, and decide whether to keep reading. Search engines use titles to retrieve relevant articles based on users’ keyword searches. Once readers find your article, they’ll use the title as the first filter to decide whether your research is what they’re looking for. A strong and specific title is the first step toward citations, inclusion in meta-analyses, and influencing your field. 

What to include in a title

Include the most important information that will signal to your target audience that they should keep reading.

Key information about the study design

Important keywords

What you discovered

Writing tips

Getting the title right can be more difficult than it seems, and researchers refine their writing skills throughout their career. Some journals even help editors to re-write their titles during the publication process! 

• Keep it concise and informative What’s appropriate for titles varies greatly across disciplines. Take a look at some articles published in your field, and check the journal guidelines for character limits. Aim for fewer than 12 words, and check for journal specific word limits.
• Write for your audience Consider who your primary audience is: are they specialists in your specific field, are they cross-disciplinary, are they non-specialists?
• Entice the reader Find a way to pique your readers’ interest, give them enough information to keep them reading.
• Incorporate important keywords Consider what about your article will be most interesting to your audience: Most readers come to an article from a search engine, so take some time and include the important ones in your title!
• Write in sentence case In scientific writing, titles are given in sentence case. Capitalize only the first word of the text, proper nouns, and genus names. See our examples below.

Don’t

• Write your title as a question In most cases, you shouldn’t need to frame your title as a question. You have the answers, you know what you found. Writing your title as a question might draw your readers in, but it’s more likely to put them off.
• Sensationalize your research Be honest with yourself about what you truly discovered. A sensationalized or dramatic title might make a few extra people read a bit further into your article, but you don’t want them disappointed when they get to the results.

Examples…

Format: Prevalence of [disease] in [population] in [location]

Example: Prevalence of tuberculosis in homeless women in San Francisco

Format: Risk factors for [condition] among [population] in [location]

Example: Risk factors for preterm births among low-income women in Mexico City

Format (systematic review/meta-analysis): Effectiveness of [treatment] for [disease] in [population] for [outcome] : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Example: Effectiveness of Hepatitis B treatment in HIV-infected adolescents in the prevention of liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Format (clinical trial): [Intervention] improved [symptoms] of [disease] in [population] : A randomized controlled clinical trial

Example: Using a sleep app lessened insomnia in post-menopausal women in southwest United States: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Format  (general molecular studies): Characterization/identification/evaluation of [molecule name] in/from [organism/tissue] (b y [specific biological methods] ) 

Example: Identification of putative Type-I sex pheromone biosynthesis-related genes expressed in the female pheromone gland of Streltzoviella insularis

Format  (general molecular studies): [specific methods/analysis] of organism/tissue reveal insights into [function/role] of [molecule name] in [biological process]  

Example: Transcriptome landscape of Rafflesia cantleyi floral buds reveals insights into the roles of transcription factors and phytohormones in flower development

Format  (software/method papers): [tool/method/software] for [what purpose] in [what research area]

Example: CRISPR-based tools for targeted transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in plants

Tip: How to edit your work

Editing is challenging, especially if you are acting as both a writer and an editor. Read our guidelines for advice on how to refine your work, including useful tips for setting your intentions, re-review, and consultation with colleagues.

• How to Write an Abstract
• How to Write Your Methods
• How to Report Statistics
• How to Write Discussions and Conclusions
• How to Edit Your Work

The contents of the Peer Review Center are also available as a live, interactive training session, complete with slides, talking points, and activities. …

The contents of the Writing Center are also available as a live, interactive training session, complete with slides, talking points, and activities. …

There’s a lot to consider when deciding where to submit your work. Learn how to choose a journal that will help your study reach its audience, while reflecting your values as a researcher…

From 101 Creative Writing Exercises: Titles and Headlines

by Melissa Donovan | Apr 21, 2020 | Creative Writing Exercises | 6 comments

From 101 Creative Writing Exercises : Writing titles and headlines.

101 Creative Writing Exercises takes writers on an adventure through the world of creative writing.

The book is packed with writing exercises that are fun and practical. Not only will these exercises inspire you, they’ll impart helpful writing techniques and offer valuable writing practice.

Try your hand at fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, including freewriting, journaling, memoir, and article writing.

Titles and Headlines

A title or headline is the first point of contact that a reader will have with your writing. It’s your introduction, a chance to entice and intrigue readers so they want to buy your book or read your article. An effective title piques a reader’s curiosity and provides some idea of what the piece is about.

Some authors use titles as part of their brand. Sue Grafton worked her way through the alphabet with her Kinsey Millhone series, which includes the titles A is for Alibi , B is for Burglar , and so on (aff links). Many romance novelists use words like kiss, love, or dance in their titles. In the sci-fi realm, anything associated with space is fair game: galaxy, universe, Mars , and stars . And a well-placed mythological term, such as dragon or wizard clearly marks a fantasy novel.

In addition to book titles, many authors have a separate title for a series. This allows the author to use two different titles on a single piece of work. New readers will be drawn in by the book title while existing fans will gravitate toward the series title.

In poetry, titles can be more abstract. A poem’s title may seem irrelevant to the poem. Many poets take a word or phrase from the poem and use it as a title. Others will use a title that functions as part of the poem. The best poem titles evoke an image and give the reader an indication of what the poem will feel like.

Magazines use headlines prominently displayed on the front cover to entice customers. Newspapers use them to draw readers into a story, and bloggers, as many of you know, use headlines to generate buzz, links, and shares on social media.

The Exercise

Choose one of your writing projects or ideas and make a list of possible titles. Don’t run off a quick list. Take some time to contemplate each title and consider how it will resonate with readers and impact your project’s success. Make sure the titles and headlines you write represent the piece accurately. Avoid labels, words, and phrases that are misleading.

Tips: Look to some successful works by authors you admire to get ideas for titles. Peruse magazines, newspapers, and blogs for headline ideas.

Variations: If you don’t have any writing projects that need titles, then make a list of alternative titles for some of your favorite books, magazines, movies, TV shows, articles, and poems.

Applications: Every piece of writing has to be titled, and a title or headline is essential in selling the piece to its audience. Developing catchy, intriguing titles is an essential writing skill.

Titles are very important. It took me almost 18 months of playing with wording, while continuing to edit and rewrite, to come up with the title to my now (newly) published novel: (Marvin’s) World of Deadheads.

I finally chose those words and then it took me a while to realize: if there was to be a series of books with these same characters in this same world (book two was already rattling around in my head) Marvin needed to be in parentheses.

My short story (published in Patchwork Path: Treasure Box anthology) about a man dying of breast cancer took forever to figure out. The story kind of focused on how little they had as a family and what he’d inherited from his mother and what his daughter could now expect to inherit from him. I finally came up with the title: “Heirlooms of Misfortune.”

Don’t shortchange yourself when it comes to the title of your work(s). I’ve got a submission at The New Yorker that could get rejected because of a weak title – and I STILL haven’t been able to come up with anything better.

Titles and names are the single most challenging aspect of writing for me, so I feel your pain. There are works and characters with titles and names that I think are absolutely perfect, and I wonder how authors came up with them. I would love to know more about how successful authors find great titles and names!

For most – if not all – of my stories, I pick a title before I even have the details worked out. Heck, I name it before I have named the characters. With all of the ideas running through my head, it helps for me to have something to call it, besides “That one where…”

Word play has always been a strong-suit of mine, so many of my titles for anything have double meanings. For example, the words Business, Affairs, and Matters, all have multiple meanings. (All three are used in the titles of a trilogy I’m writing.) In the story The Deadliest Game by Richard Connell, the reader discovers that “Game” has a double meaning.

But of course, the names aren’t permanent. Plots change, and certain titles become irrelevant. Some titles may never even be written, if they’re main ideas aren’t as catchy as their name. And I can’t be the only one who does this, right?

Well, Molly, you’re right. A title is one of the first things I come up with, if only for the purposes of naming the Word file. And I do have quite a few that are currently collecting dust in the virtual file cabinet. But, before anything gets sent out, I wrack my brain playing with words and phrases. I write them all down – longhand – until I’ve exhausted possibilities. I choose those which seem to resonate. Then, with the help of my wife and a couple of friends who are aware of the plot and characters, I choose the final name.

I do the same thing: make lists of titles (and names). For example, in my story notebook, I keep a page (usually at the front or back of the notebook) that is dedicated to names.

It sounds like you often use what is called a working title for your projects. I do that too, sometimes, but usually the working title gets changed so often that I eventually drop it and revert to “that one where…” I love titles and names with double meanings. Those are definitely the best!

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11+ creative writing guide with 50 example topics and prompts

by Hayley | Nov 17, 2022 | Exams , Writing | 0 comments

The 11+ exam is a school entrance exam taken in the academic year that a child in the UK turns eleven.

These exams are highly competitive, with multiple students battling for each school place awarded.

The 11 plus exam isn’t ‘one thing’, it varies in its structure and composition across the country. A creative writing task is included in nearly all of the 11 plus exams, and parents are often confused about what’s being tested.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the plot of your child’s writing task is important. It is not.

The real aim of the 11+ creative writing task is to showcase your child’s writing skills and techniques.

And that’s why preparation is so important.

This guide begins by answering all the FAQs that parents have about the 11+ creative writing task.

At the end of the article I give my best tips & strategies for preparing your child for the 11+ creative writing task , along with 50 fiction and non-fiction creative writing prompts from past papers you can use to help your child prepare. You’ll also want to check out my 11+ reading list , because great readers turn into great writers.

Do all 11+ exams include a writing task?

Not every 11+ exam includes a short story component, but many do. Usually 3 to 5 different prompts are given for the child to choose between and they are not always ‘creative’ (fiction) pieces. One or more non-fiction options might be given for children who prefer writing non-fiction to fiction.

Timings and marking vary from test to test. For example, the Kent 11+ Test gives students 10 minutes for planning followed by 30 minutes for writing. The Medway 11+ Test gives 60 minutes for writing with ‘space allowed’ on the answer booklet for planning.

Tasks vary too. In the Kent Test a handful of stimuli are given, whereas 11+ students in Essex are asked to produce two individually set paragraphs. The Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CCSE) includes 2 creative writing paragraphs inside a 60-minute English exam.

Throughout the UK each 11+ exam has a different set of timings and papers based around the same themes. Before launching into any exam preparation it is essential to know the content and timing of your child’s particular writing task.

However varied and different these writing tasks might seem, there is one key element that binds them.

The mark scheme.

Although we can lean on previous examples to assess how likely a short story or a non-fiction tasks will be set, it would be naïve to rely completely on the content of past papers. Contemporary 11+ exams are designed to be ‘tutor-proof’ – meaning that the exam boards like to be unpredictable.

In my online writing club for kids , we teach a different task each week (following a spiral learning structure based on 10 set tasks). One task per week is perfected as the student moves through the programme of content, and one-to-one expert feedback ensures progression. This equips our writing club members to ‘write effectively for a range of purposes’ as stated in the English schools’ teacher assessment framework.

This approach ensures that students approaching a highly competitive entrance exam will be confident of the mark scheme (and able to meet its demands) for any task set.

Will my child have a choice of prompts to write from or do they have to respond to a single prompt, without a choice?

This varies. In the Kent Test there are usually 5 options given. The purpose is to gather a writing sample from each child in case of a headteacher appeal. A range of options should allow every child to showcase what they can do.

In Essex, two prescriptive paragraphs are set as part of an hour-long English paper that includes comprehension and vocabulary work. In Essex, there is no option to choose the subject matter.

The Medway Test just offers a single prompt for a whole hour of writing. Sometimes it is a creative piece. Recently it was a marketing leaflet.

The framework for teaching writing in English schools demands that in order to ‘exceed expectations’ or better, achieve ‘greater depth’, students need to be confident writing for a multitude of different purposes.

In what circumstances is a child’s creative writing task assessed?

In Essex (east of the UK) the two prescriptive writing tasks are found inside the English exam paper. They are integral to the exam and are assessed as part of this.

In Medway (east Kent in the South East) the writing task is marked and given a raw score. This is then adjusted for age and double counted. Thus, the paper is crucial to a pass.

In the west of the county of Kent there is a different system. The Kent Test has a writing task that is only marked in appeal cases. If a child dips below the passmark their school is allowed to put together a ‘headteacher’s appeal’. At this point – before the score is communicated to the parent (and probably under cover of darkness) the writing sample is pulled out of a drawer and assessed.

I’ve been running 11+ tutor clubs for years. Usually about 1% of my students passed at headteacher’s appeal.

Since starting the writing club, however, the number of students passing at appeal has gone up considerably. In recent years it’s been more like 5% of students passing on the strength of their writing sample.

What are the examiners looking for when they’re marking a student’s creative writing?

In England, the government has set out a framework for marking creative writing. There are specific ‘pupil can’ statements to assess whether a student is ‘working towards the expected standard,’ ‘working at the expected standard’ or ‘working at greater depth’.

Members of the headteacher panel assessing the writing task are given a considerable number of samples to assess at one time. These expert teachers have a clear understanding of the framework for marking, but will not be considering or discussing every detail of the writing sample as you might expect.

Schools are provided with a report after the samples have been assessed. This is very brief indeed. Often it will simply say ‘lack of precise vocabulary’ or ‘confused paragraphing.’

So there is no mark scheme as such. They won’t be totting up your child’s score to see if they have reached a given target. They are on the panel because of their experience, and they have a short time to make an instant judgement.

Does handwriting matter?

Handwriting is assessed in primary schools. Thus it is an element of the assessment framework the panel uses as a basis for their decision.

If the exam is very soon, then don’t worry if your child is not producing immaculate, cursive handwriting. The focus should simply be on making it well-formed and legible. Every element of the assessment framework does not need to be met and legible writing will allow the panel to read the content with ease.

Improve presentation quickly by offering a smooth rollerball pen instead of a pencil. Focus on fixing individual letters and praising your child for any hint of effort. The two samples below are from the same boy a few months apart. Small changes have transformed the look and feel:

Sample 1: First piece of work when joining the writing club

Sample 2: This is the same boy’s improved presentation and content

How long should the short story be.

First, it is not a short story as such—it is a writing sample. Your child needs to showcase their skills but there are no extra marks for finishing (or marks deducted for a half-finished piece).

For a half hour task, you should prepare your child to produce up to 4 paragraphs of beautifully crafted work. Correct spelling and proper English grammar is just the beginning. Each paragraph should have a different purpose to showcase the breadth and depth of their ability. A longer – 60 minute – task might have 5 paragraphs but rushing is to be discouraged. Considered and interesting paragraphs are so valuable, a shorter piece would be scored more highly than a rushed and dull longer piece.

I speak from experience. A while ago now I was a marker for Key Stage 2 English SATs Papers (taken in Year 6 at 11 years old). Hundreds of scripts were deposited on my doorstep each morning by DHL. There was so much work for me to get through that I came to dread long, rambling creative pieces. Some children can write pages and pages of repetitive nothingness. Ever since then, I have looked for crafted quality and am wary of children judging their own success by the number of lines competed.

Take a look at the piece of writing below. It’s an excellent example of a well-crafted piece.

Each paragraph is short, but the writer is skilful.

He used rich and precisely chosen vocabulary, he’s broken the text into natural paragraphs, and in the second paragraph he is beginning to vary his sentence openings. There is a sense of control to the sentences – the sentence structure varies with shorter and longer examples to manage tension. It is exciting to read, with a clear awareness of his audience. Punctuation is accurate and appropriate.

11+ creative writing example story

How important is it to revise for a creative writing task.

It is important.

Every student should go into their 11+ writing task with a clear paragraph plan secured. As each paragraph has a separate purpose – to showcase a specific skill – the plan should reflect this. Built into the plan is a means of flexing it, to alter the order of the paragraphs if the task demands it. There’s no point having a Beginning – Middle – End approach, as there’s nothing useful there to guide the student to the mark scheme.

Beyond this, my own students have created 3 – 5 stories that fit the same tight plan. However, the setting, mood and action are all completely different. This way a bank of rich vocabulary has already been explored and a technique or two of their own that fits the piece beautifully. These can be drawn upon on the day to boost confidence and give a greater sense of depth and consideration to their timed sample.

Preparation, rather than revision in its classic form, is the best approach. Over time, even weeks or months before the exam itself, contrasting stories are written, improved upon, typed up and then tweaked further as better ideas come to mind. Each of these meets the demands of the mark scheme (paragraphing, varied sentence openings, rich vocabulary choices, considered imagery, punctuation to enhance meaning, development of mood etc).

To ensure your child can write confidently at and above the level expected of them, drop them into my weekly weekly online writing club for the 11+ age group . The club marking will transform their writing, and quickly.

What is the relationship between the English paper and the creative writing task?

Writing is usually marked separately from any comprehension or grammar exercises in your child’s particular 11+ exam. Each exam board (by area/school) adapts the arrangement to suit their needs. Some have a separate writing test, others build it in as an element of their English paper (usually alongside a comprehension, punctuation and spelling exercise).

Although there is no creative writing task in the ISEB Common Pre-test, those who are not offered an immediate place at their chosen English public school are often invited back to complete a writing task at a later date. Our ISEB Common Pre-test students join the writing club in the months before the exam, first to tidy up the detail and second to extend the content.

What if my child has a specific learning difficulty (dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, ASD)?

Most exam boards pride themselves on their inclusivity. They will expect you to have a formal report from a qualified professional at the point of registration for the test. This needs to be in place and the recommendations will be considered by a panel. If your child needs extra arrangements on the day they may be offered (it isn’t always the case). More importantly, if they drop below a pass on one or more papers you will have a strong case for appeal.

Children with a specific learning difficulty often struggle with low confidence in their work and low self-esteem. The preparations set out above, and a kids writing club membership will allow them to go into the exam feeling positive and empowered. If they don’t achieve a pass at first, the writing sample will add weight to their appeal.

Tips and strategies for writing a high-scoring creative writing paper

• Read widely for pleasure. Read aloud to your child if they are reluctant.
• Create a strong paragraph plan where each paragraph has a distinct purpose.
• Using the list of example questions below, discuss how each could be written in the form of your paragraph plan.
• Write 3-5 stories with contrasting settings and action – each one must follow your paragraph plan. Try to include examples of literary devices and figurative language (metaphor, simile) but avoid clichés.
• Tidy up your presentation. Write with a good rollerball pen on A4 lined paper with a printed margin. Cross out with a single horizontal line and banish doodling or scribbles.
• Join the writing club for a 20-minute Zoom task per week with no finishing off or homework. An expert English teacher will mark the work personally on video every Friday and your child’s writing will be quickly transformed.

Pressed for time? Here’s a paragraph plan to follow.

At Griffin Teaching we have an online writing club for students preparing for the 11 plus creative writing task . We’ve seen first-hand what a difference just one or two months of weekly practice can make.

That said, we know that a lot of people reading this page are up against a hard deadline with an 11+ exam date fast approaching.

If that’s you (or your child), what you need is a paragraph plan.

Here’s one tried-and-true paragraph plan that we teach in our clubs. Use this as you work your way through some of the example prompts below.

11+ creative writing paragraph plan

Paragraph 1—description.

Imagine standing in the location and describe what is above the main character, what is below their feet, what is to their left and right, and what is in the distance. Try to integrate frontend adverbials into this paragraph (frontend adverbials are words or phrases used at the beginning of a sentence to describe what follows—e.g. When the fog lifted, he saw… )

Paragraph 2—Conversation

Create two characters who have different roles (e.g. site manager and student, dog walker and lost man) and write a short dialogue between them. Use what we call the “sandwich layout,” where the first person says something and you describe what they are doing while they are saying it. Add in further descriptions (perhaps of the person’s clothing or expression) before starting a new line where the second character gives a simple answer and you provide details about what the second character is doing as they speak.

Paragraph 3—Change the mood

Write three to four sentences that change the mood of the writing sample from light to gloomy or foreboding. You could write about a change in the weather or a change in the lighting of the scene. Another approach is to mention how a character reacts to the change in mood, for example by pulling their coat collar up to their ears.

Paragraph 4—Shock your reader

A classic approach is to have your character die unexpectedly in the final sentence. Or maybe the ceiling falls?

11+ creative writing questions from real papers—fictional prompts

• The day the storm came
• The day the weather changed
• The snowstorm
• The rainy day
• A sunny day out
• A foggy (or misty) day
• A day trip to remember
• The first day
• The day everything changed
• The mountain
• The hillside
• The old house
• The balloon
• The old man
• The accident
• The unfamiliar sound
• A weekend away
• Moving house
• A family celebration
• An event you remember from when you were young
• An animal attack
• The school playground at night
• The lift pinged and the door opened. I could not believe what was inside…
• “Run!” he shouted as he thundered across the sand…
• It was getting late as I dug in my pocket for the key to the door. “Hurry up!” she shouted from inside.
• I know our back garden very well, but I was surprised how different it looked at midnight…
• The red button on the wall has a sign on it saying, ‘DO NOT TOUCH.’ My little sister leant forward and hit it hard with her hand. What happened next?
• Digging down into the soft earth, the spade hit something metal…
• Write a story which features the stopping of time.
• Write a story which features an unusual method of transport.
• The cry in the woods
• Write a story which features an escape

11+ creative writing questions from real papers—non-fiction prompts

• Write a thank you letter for a present you didn’t want.
• You are about to interview someone for a job. Write a list of questions you would like to ask the applicant.
• Write a letter to complain about the uniform at your school.
• Write a leaflet to advertise your home town.
• Write a thank you letter for a holiday you didn’t enjoy.
• Write a letter of complaint to the vet after an unfortunate incident in the waiting room.
• Write a set of instructions explaining how to make toast.
• Describe the room you are in.
• Describe a person who is important to you.
• Describe your pet or an animal you know well.

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• university of new orleans
• campus news
• in memoriam: english professor and author carol gelderman

CAMPUS NEWS: MARCH 25, 2024

In memoriam, in memoriam: english professor and author carol gelderman.

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Carol Gelderman, former English professor and author known for her prolific writings, died March 8, 2024.

Carol Gelderman, an esteemed English professor at the University of New Orleans for more than three decades and the author of 10 books—including a biography of Henry Ford—died on March 8. She was 89.

After earning a doctorate from Northwestern University, Gelderman joined the University in 1972 and remained on the English faculty until her retirement in 2005. She was such a prolific and skilled writer that in 1993 she was named a Distinguished Professor, a prestigious title held by only five faculty members at any one time.  

Her 10 published books included two textbooks about business and professional writing. A passionate student of American politics, she analyzed presidential speech writing in “All the President’s Words: The Bully Pulpit and the Creation of the Virtual Presidency.” But Gelderman was best known for her biographies. A review of “Henry Ford: The Wayward Capitalist” made the cover of Business Week . Her biography of the writer Mary McCarthy, “Mary McCarthy: A Life,” was reviewed on the front page of the New York Times Book Review.    

She continued to write throughout her life. “A Free Man of Color and His Hotel: Race, Reconstruction, and the Role of the Federal Government,” was published in 2012 when she was 77. In it, she examined the life of James Wormley, a free Black man who owned and operated the most luxurious hotel in Washington, D.C., from the 1850s until the 1880s.

In his eulogy of Gelderman, former UNO provost, English professor and founder of the Creative Writing Workshop Rick Barton called her a “scholar and acclaimed writer, a cherished teacher, a caring colleague and a loyal friend.”

“Despite all the long hours of intellectual effort it took to research and write these amazingly dissimilar 10 books, Carol shined in other aspects of her life as well,” Barton said. “We all know university faculty who publish important books and articles but don’t bother to put the same effort into their teaching duties. Not Carol Gelderman. She was as devoted a teacher as she was a scholar.”

Before receiving master’s and doctoral degrees from Northwestern, Gelderman worked for the American Embassy in London for a year and in public television in Chicago, conducting on-air interviews of visiting VIPs for a show called “Profile Chicago.” In addition to her 10 books, she wrote dozens of articles on topics as varied as theatre, biography, politics and mutual funds.

“Carol Gelderman was a vivacious, gregarious and affable person. She had friends all over New Orleans,” Barton said. “Carol was beloved by so many of us because she never practiced self-aggrandizement. She was a literary star, but you’d never learn about that from her.”

Colleagues and friends are planning to hold a memorial for Gelderman on UNO’s campus. Those details are incomplete.

UNO Presents the 2024 Dr. Ivan Miestchovich Economic Outlook & Real Estate Forecast Seminar on April 9

University of New Orleans Partners With Bernhard to Launch Innovative Solar Array Installation

Doctoral Student Wins Counseling Association Research Grant