Get people to click on your link by using these compelling headline formulas

If you want people to click on your links, you need to write headlines that pack a punch. Luckily, there are headline formulas that can help you do just that.

Headline formulas that will make people want to click on your links:

1. The how-to headline

Want to know how to do something? Just read this headline and find out. How-to headlines are great for giving readers a specific promise of what they'll learn by clicking through.

Example: How to Make the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie

2. The list headline

Who doesn't love a good list? Readers can skim through a list headline and know exactly what they're going to get by clicking on the link. Plus, lists are easy to digest and usually contain actionable tips that readers can implement right away.

Example: The Top 10 Healthiest Foods to Eat

3. The question headline

Questions pique our curiosity and make us want to know the answer. A great question headline will make readers want to click through to see if you have the answer they're looking for.

Example: Are You Eating Enough Fruits and Vegetables?

4. The surprising headline

We all love a good surprise. A headline that promises to reveal something unexpected is sure to get clicks. Just be sure that your surprise is truly surprising (and not just clickbait).

Example: You Won't Believe What This Dog Did When He Saw a Squirrel

5. The controversial headline

A controversial headline is designed to elicit an emotional response from the reader. If you can get people worked up, they're more likely to click on your link to see what all the fuss is about. Just be sure that your headline is accurate and not misleading.

Example: The One Simple Trick That Can Make You a Better Cook

6. The benefit-driven headline

Benefit-driven headlines are all about highlighting the value that readers will get by clicking through. If your headline promises a solution to a problem or a way to improve something, readers will be more likely to click on it.

Example: 5 Tips to Help You Get a Job in the Technology Industry

7. The curiosity gap headline

Curiosity gap headlines create suspense by leaving out key information. The goal is to get readers to click through to find out the answer to the question posed in the headline. Just be sure not to leave out too much information or your headline will be confusing.

Example: I Tried the Newest Diet fad and Here's What Happened

8. The “you” headline

Headlines that use the word “you” are addressing the reader directly, which can be very effective. These headlines make readers feel like the content is meant specifically for them, which can increase the likelihood of a click.

Example: You Won't Believe What This Teacher Did for Her Students

9. The "Best" headline

We all want to know what the best of something is, which is why "best" headlines are so effective. If you can promise to deliver the best tips, tricks, or advice on a topic, readers will be more likely to click on your link.

Example: The Best Tips for Planning a Successful Road Trip

10. The "Because" headline

The word "because" is a powerful trigger word that can compel people to take action. If you can explain why someone should do something, they're more likely to do it.

Example: Click Here Because We Need to Talk About That New Star Wars Movie

By using one (or more) of these headline formulas, you can write headlines that are more likely to get clicked on. Just remember to always keep your audience in mind and write headlines that are relevant to the content of your article.