Writing a book but having no idea how to come up with a good title that instantly grabs readers' attention?
This blog uncovers the 14 secret tips to help you name your book something fabulous.
Choosing the book title is one of the essentials you must consider as an author, as this is the chance to attract potential audiences and convince them to write your book.
However it's not that easy! You have to brainstorm, narrow down many ideas before you choose a permanent title.
Have you ever heard of the quote Never judge a book by its cover?
Well, it's not true!
Speaking for myself, I chose a novel that has an alluring title.
Hence if you want to impress others, here's your chance. Follow these 14 tips now and come up with something interesting.
Top 14 Tips for Choosing the Good Book Title
Choosing a good book title can be tricky. You need something that quickly intrigues readers while ensuring it's memorable and conveys the tone for the book. Furthermore, you want to attract potential book publishers online. I am sure this has you worried. But don't be! Instead, just follow these tips to come up with an excellent title.
Tip 1: Keep It Simple
Picture this: You saw a book with a long title. Now will you be able to remember it?
No!
Exactly! Therefore always choose the title which is concise. I would say 3 to 5 words are more than enough.
Just make sure it is able to convey the book's message clearly. Furthermore if you think the message is not clear, you can add a subtitle.
For example, in A Book Thief by Markus Zusak,
Tip 2: Attract the Target Audience
Your book might have a certain target audience. Therefore your topic must be according to this.
For example, if you're writing a story based on science fiction, the audience will be science individuals.
Similarly, the title must not be too sensational if you are writing a non-fiction book.
Tip 3: Bring Originality
Remember your book will compete with hundreds or even thousands of other books with similar stories.
Hence you have to stand out.
Therefore bring your inner creativity out and think outside the box. Don't be afraid to play with words or phrases. If you are wondering how to write novel titles that instantly grab the reader's attention without sounding too familiar, here is how you can do it:
For example, if you are writing about how to start a business:
Here are some incredible ideas for you:
- A Start-Up Survival Guide: Advice from the Experts
- Overcome the Fear of Starting A Business: A Step Guide for Successful Leaders
- Dream Big, Start Small: A Practical Guide to Launching Your Business.
Tip 4: Make It Easy to Remember
As I said earlier, you have to create a book title that is etched in the reader's memory for a long time.
For this, ensure the titles you come up with are easy to remember.
The more simple, the engaging it will be. It even makes it easier to say while purchasing a book. Just make sure to include the relevant keywords which relate with the important character or place.
Tip 5: Don't Forget to Write Down The Ideas
I am sure you must have hundreds of ideas swirling through the back of your mind. So, to make sure that you don't forget them, jot down on a piece of paper.
Remember it's okay if you still haven't finalised the title. Some authors prefer leaving it till the end as it gives them a chance to explore various plotlines.
So write whatever comes to your mind, even if you think they are ridiculous.
Tip 6: Have Brainstorming Sessions
Do you have a friend who is a big novel reader or writer?
Call them up for brainstorming.
Summarise the story to them or provide them with a blurb to read so they can contextualise what you are talking about. You can ask them to give you some fun and interesting story title ideas. Ask them to read yours too and make changes. Trust me! It works like a charm.
Tip 7: Don't Forget to Browse Similar Genres
The Internet is filled with books based on your genres. So don't forget to explore them. For example, if you are writing non-fiction books, look for the ones related to your genre.
Furthermore, stay updated on industry trends to see what's currently grabbing readers' attention.
Don't copy-paste the ideas. Remember, it's only to spark ideas in your mind.
Tip 8: Read, Read and Read
Once you have a list of novel ideas, take your time to read them. See how it sounds. Furthermore, remove the ones that no longer sound appealing.
Here are some things you need to consider:
- Is it easy to pronounce?
- Do the words flow logically?
- See if you can make any changes to enhance the titles.
Tip 9: Experiment with the Book Generator Tools
Yup! There are many book title generator tools available in the market.
So why not experiment with this?
It will help you generate potential ideas to elevate your book titles.
Don't know which one to use? Well, here are some popular ones:
- Self-publishing for non-fiction
- Writing Exercises for Fiction
- UK Rifter for Sci-fi and Fantasy
Tip 10: Use Numbers to Make A Great Impact
Is your book going to be a series?
Then use numbers in your title to make a great impact. It doesn't matter if it's fiction or non-fiction.
Here are some famous books that make a significant impact:
- 7 habits of highly effective people
- 1884
- 101 essays that change the way you think
Tip 11: Include Relevant Keywords
Search engines can really boost the chances of your book reaching the right audience. The only key is to use relevant keywords.
While the title is sensational and engaging, it must also be relevant to what people might search for on the Internet.
Tip 12: Read Your Book
After you have drafted the book, take your time to review it. See what core message it conveys, and try picking a related topic.
Furthermore, consider what inspired you to write the book and what themes it explores. Then, brainstorm the ideas.
Tip 13: Check for Copyright
Are you using any content or images in the title of your book?
Well, don't forget to check for the copyright. Remember there is a thin line between fair use and copying.
So it is better to have permission from the person you use the work.
Tip 14: Add Emotive Words
Do you want to grab your reader's attention?
Consider using adjectives, emotions and adverbs in your title. This will help attract the audience, compelling them to read your book at any cost.
Wrapping Up!
That's a wrap! I hope this blog is a valuable guide if you are wondering how to develop a good book title.
Choosing a book title can be tricky, however, with the right strategies like keeping it simple, using numbers, and brainstorming with friends. Adding emotions, exploring different genres and bringing originality, you can definitely create a title that quickly attracts your readers.
So, what are you waiting for?
Follow these tips now and bring your ideas for the world to see.