We have all heard the saying: "Don't judge a book by its cover." However, every writer knows that an engaging title is what draws readers to books and hooks them into the story. Book covers, and therefore titles, are the first thing a reader sees, which is why they need to stand out. But, most writers face much pressure when trying to title their work in progress. Some writers even hate titling their novels. It can be hard to interest readers with just a few words. Even though it is difficult to come up with the perfect title for your book, it is not impossible. Here are the 5 best tips for titling your work in progress, plus 3 attributes of a good title.
Don't Rush It
The worst thing you can do when titling your piece is psych yourself out. Although titles are extremely important for fishing in readers and the success of your novel, there is no need to fret. If you have just begun writing your novel, don't worry about the title, instead focus on writing a solid piece of work. Titles are valuable and set the tone for your novel, so don't randomly decide on the title of your novel at the beginning of your writing process. Writing a novel is a long process, so you will have time to choose a title!
Create a List of Recurring Themes
Titling books based on themes are a common occurrence and for good reason. When choosing the title of your novel write a list of common themes or images in your novel. Some examples include friendship, romance, hatred, and royalty. These can be very helpful for narrowing down what theme you want your title to convey, but to take it a step further consider writing down words associated with each theme. These themes and ideas may lead to a plan for your title.
Consider Essential Settings and Characters
The setting is what can separate similar novels from each other. When creating the title of your novel, think about the time period and the setting. Including the setting in your story title may help produce ideas for your title and attract readers to your novel.
Pick out Interesting Lines
We have all read novels where the title is incorporated in the dialogue. When the novel's title is written within a novel it calls attention to the reader and can help direct them to certain themes or images. If you are wondering how to title your novel, contemplate looking through moments or important dialogue for an interesting line that could serve as the title of your novel. Incorporating the title into the text of a novel also gives the reader a satisfying "Aaaaah" moment.
Ask Others for Advice
Although no one knows your novel, as well as you do you may want to ask others for advice. Have friends or family members read a draft of your book or give them a summary to see what reaction they elicit. Listen to what they feel would best suit your novel and consider that when creating your title. The title of your novel is your choice, though input from early/beta readers can be beneficial.
The 3 Attributes of a Good Book Title
Short
Good book titles are typically short and unforgettable. Short titles are easy to remember and stay with you long after you read them. Short titles are often much more evocative and memorable. Where long and complicated titles are often forgotten or ignored.
Easy to Pronounce
Although the ability to pronounce something can be subjective, in general, your title should be easy to pronounce. If a book title is often butchered and hard to pronounce, readers won't recommend it or revisit it. Also, people are more likely to respond to words that they recognize and understand.
Attention-Grabbing
If the title does not stand out to readers, it is unlikely that it will sell. Book titles are the first thing readers see and if they're boring and don't catch the eyes of the public, they won't draw in readers. Make sure your title stands out and leaves a great first impression. Perhaps be controversial, silly, or exciting.
The title of a book is crucial and can influence readers to pick up a book. The title of a book is also important for letting the world recognize you as an author. So be sure to take advantage of the fact that the title of your book has power. Although it can be difficult, I hope these 8 tips are useful for creating the title of your novel.