How to Craft Engaging Email Subject Lines
The subject line is your first (and sometimes only) chance to make an impression. In fact, 47% of people open emails based on the subject line alone, while 69% mark them as spam based on the same reason.
That’s why crafting a compelling subject line is one of the most important parts of email copywriting.
In this article, we’ll walk through the essential strategies to create subject lines that grab attention, spark curiosity, and increase open rates.
1. Keep It Short and Focused
Most mobile devices cut off subject lines at 30–40 characters. Make every word count.
Examples:
“Big news inside”
“50% Off – Today Only”
“We’re going live in 1 hour”
Avoid clutter and get to the point.
2. Create Curiosity Without Being Clickbait
Curiosity drives clicks—but misleading subject lines lose trust.
Good Examples:
“You won’t believe what just launched”
“3 tricks you’re not using yet”
“What every freelancer should know…”
Avoid:
“You’ll NEVER guess!” (vague and spammy)
3. Add Personalization
Personalized subject lines feel more relevant.
Examples:
“Zakir, your SEO report is ready”
“A gift just for you”
“Is this your biggest email mistake?”
Using the recipient’s name or location (if possible) makes it feel tailored.
4. Use Numbers and Lists
Numbers stand out and promise a clear structure.
Examples:
“7 ways to boost your traffic”
“Top 5 tools we swear by”
“3 things we learned this week”
This also sets expectations for the email’s format.
5. Ask Questions
Questions invite the reader to mentally engage.
Examples:
“Are you doing email wrong?”
“Want more conversions this month?”
“What’s holding you back?”
Make sure the question relates to their interests or pain points.
6. Use Urgency or Scarcity (But Sparingly)
When used honestly, urgency can increase opens.
Examples:
“Last chance to save 30%”
“Only 3 hours left”
“Ending soon: Join the masterclass”
Don’t fake urgency—it damages trust.
7. Include a Clear Benefit
Let your reader know what’s in it for them.
Examples:
“Grow your email list in 10 minutes”
“Double your leads with one tweak”
“Get more clicks with better CTAs”
Think: What’s the value of opening this?
8. Avoid Spam Trigger Words
Words like “Free!!!”, “Buy now”, “Guaranteed”, and “Act fast” can land your emails in the spam folder.
Instead, use clean, honest language that reflects the actual value inside.
9. A/B Test Your Subject Lines
No formula works for everyone. Test different tones, lengths, and approaches to see what resonates with your audience.
Try testing:
Emojis vs. no emojis
Questions vs. statements
Personal vs. general
Use data to guide your decisions.
10. Match the Subject Line to the Email Content
If the subject line promises something exciting, the email must deliver. Otherwise, you risk high open rates but low engagement and trust.
Always be honest about what’s inside.
Conclusion
Your subject line is the gateway to your email. Make it count.
Use clarity, curiosity, personalization, and proven formats to make your emails irresistible to open.
Treat every subject line like a headline—because that’s exactly what it is.