8 Tips for Writing Email Subject Lines Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Email, Messaging, & Video Calls > Email 66 66 people found this article helpful

8 Tips for Writing Email Subject Lines

Give recipients a reason to read your messages

By Heinz Tschabitscher Heinz Tschabitscher Writer University of Vienna A former freelance contributor who has reviewed hundreds of email programs and services since 1997. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on October 14, 2021 Reviewed by Ryan Perian Reviewed by Ryan Perian Western Governors University Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Email Yahoo! Mail Gmail Just as moviegoers determine whether they'll see a film based on the preview, email recipients prioritize messages based on the subject line, which appears before the message is opened. Messages that contain subject lines that are relevant or interesting are more likely to be read. To get your correspondents to pay attention, give your email subject lines the attention they deserve. Tara Moore/Getty Images

How to Write Effective Email Subject Lines

Here are a few tips on how to write email subject lines that convince recipients to open an email from you and read your message.

Keep it Brief

For practical reasons, keep the subject line brief. Most email clients only display the first 50 characters, so anything you write beyond that limit doesn't really matter.

Avoid Salesy Language

All caps, too many exclamation marks, and other symbols meant to draw attention are turn-offs for recipients. Also, overly promotional language, such as Buy Now, Limited Time Offer, or Free may be ignored. Emails that have subject lines with these phrases don't get read and are often automatically delivered to spam folders.

Use Plain Language

Strive for accuracy, rather than entertainment. Don't try to jazz up what's in your email message; tell the reader what to expect when they open the message.

Ask a Question

Questions pique curiosity and inspire readers to open an email in search of an answer.

Mention a Deadline If Applicable

Sometimes a deadline makes an email a priority. Tell the recipient when your offer expires or when you need an answer, such as This special offer is only available for one more week.

Use a Direct Call to Action

If you want your email to provoke action, use an imperative sentence that includes a benefit, such as RSVP now to get the best seats.

Put Your Name in the Subject Line

Most people look at the sender and the subject line when deciding whether to open an email. This is especially helpful when the recipient doesn't know you well.

Use Good Marketing Sense

If you're writing on behalf of your business or your employer, think about what your customers want and create a subject line that delivers it. For example, Exclusive sale for enews subscribers only — starts tomorrow. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Write the Perfect Email Subject How to Send Email From a PHP Script How to Send a New Email With iPhone Mail App How to Search Mail in iPhone Mail EOM: What It Means and How It Saves Time How to End an Email (Even When You Don't Know What to Say) How to Send Email to Undisclosed Recipients From Gmail How to Email Undisclosed Recipients in iPhone Mail How to View Full Message Headers in Mozilla Thunderbird 10 Best Free Email Accounts for 2022 How to Mind Your Email Manners The 8 Best Sites For Free E-cards How to Remove Paragraph Symbols in Outlook The 5 Best Secure Email Services for 2022 How to Fix It When Attachments Aren't Showing in Outlook How to Tell When Someone Reads Your Text Message Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies