There are some common rules you may or may not follow, I will just list what I know. 1) Numbers are 4 times better than words in the title, it is 100% sure, they just catch 2 times more eyes as compared to plane text 2) Using superior, intriguing and eye-catching descriptions is recommended. Just try to avoid miraculous and wonderful ones, we do not live in a fairy tale 3) Playing with words can lead to great results. Title should sound or read funny. For example title for your phot can be "Keep your eyes on my eyephone 5, not on my 36D sized bra" 4) A title may give a short explanation of the article below and should contain keywords, it will have better chances to go up the search results. However, if you are going to concentrate on viral advertising - sound titles mean more than keywords there. If I am not right and somebody knows better - I will be glad to hear their point
You should take a copywriting course, it will pay off in the long run. Focus on grabbing the readers attention straight away. Look at keywords that are proven to attract readers in your niche. Also have a look at what similar articles in your niche are doing.
Oh I bet you will! Here are a few things that you should consider in your title. Promises and Big Claims the Use of Power Words Create Controversy state a Benefit
You should start with a swipe file. It's basically a collection of headlines, emails, sales letters, ads, etc. The headlines from these advertising pieces will give you fast inspiration for creating a good title post.
I started reading this book 'Cashvertising' and almost done and so far I was very happy with the useful information. It has helped me improve my copywriting skills, which we're nil beforehand, and might be something of interest in the topic of creating enticing titles.
Do a search for something on Google and then take a look at the titles in their paid ads. Usually (not always) those are the most concise, attention grabbing titles you can find.
Honestly, if you are going to use hyperbole in your title – I hate you. There is nothing more frustrating than a title that promises everything but delivers on nothing. People remember that. Use clear and concise language and get to the point – that is my recommendation for a topic.
Make you article short yet contains complete though, like "3 Steps On Becoming Healthy", something like that.
Focusing on Headlines, Context, Content its 50% time consuming and 90% important now. It doesn't matter how you do it, but what result you get after.
What I do is to go to sites like Reddit or SumbleUpon and see what's is getting the most views copy the heading twit is to match my post and upload to my site. That way I don't have to waste time thinking what title to use for my post.
Exaggerated headlines do caught a good number of attention specially if it is tied with a very entertaining image.
I guess it isn't enough to create a catchy title, because it is quite easy (keep it short, use numbers, play with words, etc.), but the title is not everything, you have to attract the reader's attention but then you have to keep him interested with your content.
You are right, benedictator headlines is the headturner but the content is what the visitors keep coming back