How to Write Email Subject Lines That Get Clicks
Your email subject line is the first—and sometimes only—chance you have to capture your audience’s attention. No matter how great your email copy is, it won’t matter if no one opens it.
Subject lines are like headlines for your inbox. They determine whether your email gets clicked or deleted.
Let’s explore how to write subject lines that stand out, spark curiosity, and boost open rates.
1. Keep It Short and Scannable
Most people check emails on mobile devices, where subject lines get cut off. Aim for 5–7 words or under 50 characters.
Example:
✅ “Boost Sales in 3 Simple Steps”
❌ “Here’s a full breakdown of how our solution improves conversion rates across all platforms”
2. Create Curiosity (Without Being Clickbait)
Curiosity encourages opens, but the content must deliver. Avoid misleading headlines.
Example:
✅ “You’re missing one important thing…”
❌ “Click here for something insane!!!”
3. Use Numbers and Lists
Numbers add clarity and attract attention.
Examples:
“7 Hacks for Better Email Copy”
“3 Mistakes Killing Your Conversions”
Odd numbers often perform better than even ones.
4. Ask a Question
A question invites engagement and feels conversational.
Examples:
“Struggling to get email clicks?”
“What if your emails wrote themselves?”
5. Include the Reader’s Name (If Possible)
Name personalization can slightly boost open rates.
Example:
“Zakir, this strategy could double your open rates”
Just make sure your list data is clean—nothing looks worse than “Hi [FIRSTNAME]”.
6. Create Urgency or Scarcity
When people feel they might miss out, they act faster.
Examples:
“Ends Tonight: 30% Off”
“Only 3 spots left for Thursday”
Be honest—don’t fake urgency.
7. Use Action Words
Start with strong verbs that drive clicks.
Examples:
“Discover your best email yet”
“Fix your open rates today”
8. Test Emojis (But Carefully)
Emojis can make your subject line stand out—but don’t overdo it.
Examples:
“🔥 5 subject line formulas that work”
“💡 Tips for better email writing”
Use them only if they match your brand tone.
9. Match Subject Line to Content
Misleading subject lines break trust. Your subject line should reflect the value inside the email.
Example:
If your subject says “Get the full guide,” don’t send a teaser—send the actual guide.
10. A/B Test Your Subject Lines
What works for one audience might not work for another. Test variations to see what your readers respond to.
Try changing:
Tone (casual vs. formal)
Length
Personalization
Use of numbers or emojis
Bonus: Subject Line Formulas You Can Steal
“How to [benefit] without [pain point]”
→ “How to Write Faster Emails Without Losing Quality”“The Secret to [desirable outcome]”
→ “The Secret to 50% Higher Open Rates”“What [audience] Needs to Know About [topic]”
→ “What Marketers Need to Know About Email Rules”
Conclusion
Your subject line is your first impression—and first impressions matter. Spend time crafting a headline that makes your audience curious, excited, or inspired to click.
Remember: even one word can make a difference. Test. Learn. Improve.
Keep your subject lines short, specific, and irresistible.