15 Tips to Write Catchy Email Subject Lines [+ Examples]

Crafting compelling email subject lines is an art—one that’s increasingly vital as inboxes overflow. Consider that 15.8% of emails disappear into spam filters or the void. With subscribers deciding whether to open an email in just a few seconds based on the subject line alone, writing ones that intrigue and inform becomes critical.

With the efficacy of email marketing constantly under threat, the ability to craft compelling subject lines that entice recipients into opening your messages is key to cutting through the clutter. This guide will explore 15 techniques to create a clickable, catchy email subject line that grabs attention.

You’ll learn what to write in the subject in email and how subtle tweaks like using numbers, urgency cues, personalization, emojis, brackets, curiosities, and more can optimize open rates.

What Is An Email Subject Line?

The email subject line is the short text that appears in the subject field when sending or receiving an email. Subject lines succinctly communicate what the email message is about. They serve an important role in email by allowing recipients to quickly identify important messages and their urgency or purpose without opening every email.

Pro-tip

Keep the email subject lines concise, relevant, and intriguing. Use action words and highlight the benefits readers will gain by opening your email. Consider responsive design as well, with subjects optimized for small mobile screens. Additionally, personalize subject lines to resonate with your audience. Incorporate humor, urgency, or curiosity to pique interest. Remember, testing and analyzing performance is key—A/B testing different subject line styles will help you understand what works best for your specific audience and refine your approach for maximum engagement.

Subject lines are typically limited to about 50 characters or less in length. This requires senders to craft clear, concise text that highlights core information. Effective subject lines improve the chances of an email being opened and read by giving recipients context on its content before they engage further.

Subject lines also aid in the organization and searchability of emails by topic. With inboxes constantly receiving new messages, the email subject line is critical for cutting through the noise.

Why Are Email Subject Lines Important?

You must be wondering how to write a subject in an email. But let’s start with why these are important. Email subject lines are incredibly important for several reasons:

• They inform recipients about an email’s content at a glance, helping them decide if and when to open messages. Clear subject lines reduce confusion and give essential context.
• Good subject lines improve open and response rates because they signal relevance, urgency, or value to recipients. This increases engagement with email content.
• Subject lines make scanning and searching inboxes much easier by summarizing what each message pertains to. This improves the organization.
• Subject lines can convey tone, emotion, or intent through word choice and formatting like urgent (!) or question marks (?). This adds further contextual clues.
• Mobile email previews typically display the subject line first. So, on small screens, subject lines become even more vital for engaging readers.

In the noisy inbox environment, subject lines are the first and possibly only chance to convey important information about an email. Thoughtful subject line writing is critical for higher open rates, click-throughs, and recipient understanding of message contents or purpose.

What Are Some Best Practices For Writing Email Subject Lines?

Email subject lines play a crucial role in determining whether a message gets opened or ignored. With the proliferation of digital communications, inboxes have become increasingly crammed, making it more important than ever for subject lines to stand out and catch readers’ attention.

Statistics highlight email’s continued importance as a marketing channel. An overwhelming 89% of marketers now rely on email as their primary lead-generation tool. However, with so many messages competing for limited attention, poorly crafted subject lines can doom emails to the trash before being read.

Here are some best practices that can help boost open and click-through rates by writing good subject lines that entice customers to open your emails:

1. Hook Readers Instantly with Intrigue

Immediately grab attention by highlighting tangible benefits, asking a fascinating question, or including an intriguing statistic. Spark curiosity right away to boost open rates. For instance, “See how this 5-minute routine can relieve your back pain” piques interest in the solution.

2. Have Fun with Creative Wordplay

Make subject lines more memorable by incorporating alliteration, rhyme, wordplay, or cultural references. For example, “Act fast to score big savings in our Summer Sales Spectacular!” combines rhyme and urgency. Ensure tone aligns with your brand identity, avoiding frivolity for professional contexts.

3. Use a Friendly, Conversational Tone

Write subject lines conversationally with contractions, relatable voice, and easy readability. An approachable, casual tone invites dialogue even for serious companies. “We’re here to answer your billing questions” conveys accessibility. Formality should align with the brand voice.

4. Prompt Action with Direct Offers

Combine a clear call to action with a compelling incentive to maximize response. Phrases like “Get your 20% off coupon when you shop today” provide explicit directions. Ask readers to claim offers, act now, sign up, etc.

5. Pose Intriguing Questions

Spark interest by asking about problems your audience faces or information they want to know. For example, “Looking for affordable summer camps?” or “Need help planning a dream vacation?” Questions create instant curiosity.

6. Highlight Scarcity and Urgency Tactfully

Note limited-time offers or closing dates to activate urgency, but avoid vague “act soon” language. Directly state scopes like “72-hour flash sale ends Tuesday” or “Today only: 50% off shoes.” Scarcity prompts a response if the parameters are clear.

7. Explore Punctuation for Emphasis

Strategically use punctuation like parentheses, dashes, and exclamation points to highlight or enhance key points. Periods convey authority, whereas exclamations increase excitement. Test subtle punctuation differences with A/B testing.

8. Personalize with Direct “You” Language

Immediately address readers by speaking directly to their needs or goals. “Your guide to avoiding billing errors” drives relevancy better than vague third-person language. The personal “you/your” keeps focus on individual value.

9. Provide Clear Context and Value

Intrigue sparks interest but clarifies the value readers will actually get to maximize relevancy. Describe informational content or exclusive offers transparently. “Get insider tips for remodeling your bathroom on a budget” promises relevant savings advice.

15 Tips For Creating Good Email Subject Lines 

Writing an email subject line might seem small, but it’s a big deal. It’s like the title of a book—catchy and interesting, and it makes you want to read more.

In emails, the subject line is what makes people click and read. If it’s boring or confusing, people might ignore your email. Let’s learn some ways to make your email subject lines really stand out and get noticed.

Check out these tips for creating the best subject lines below!

1. Keep It Short

Nobody wants to read a long subject line. Just like marketing strategies to come up with a clever line for advertisement, you can use smart ideas for email marketing. Keep it under 50 characters so that a reader can quickly finish reading it.

But be sure that it includes simple words that are easy to understand. Your readers are not ready with a dictionary to find out the meanings of your emails. 

2. Keep It Simple 

Don’t use such email lines that can confuse the users. Readers are not dumb to click on an email that tries to lure users. State the main subject of your email in a simple line so that anyone who isn’t familiar with the products of your company can easily understand the topic at one glance. The easier it is, the more clicks it gets.

3. Shock The Readers

Ever gotten an email that had a crazy and shocking email subject line that forced you to click on it? Most of us have fallen under this persuasion as our mind forces us to know more about it.

But be careful so that the different subject lines match with the body of your email, or readers’ dissatisfaction will be seen. Some examples can be:

• Here’s why your marketing strategy sucks. 
• Why are you still not aware of this? 

Be careful about these as they will surely persuade people to click, but if the body of your email isn’t good enough, they’ll lose interest.

4. Scarcity 

Scarcity is a well-known marketing strategy that has been proven to work well. World-famous marketing teachers have always stated the effectiveness of scarcity in a marketing strategy. 

When someone has thought of missing out on something good, they always tend to focus on it. This strategy increase sells at a great level.

Some examples are:

• Pay $20 for [product] – Available for 48 hours. 
• ONLY TODAY! Buy now to get a 20% discount. 
• ONLY FOR 5 HOURS! Enjoy our services with a 50% discount. 

Don’t spam readers with these types of emails as they’ll find out your strategy. Only send these types of emails once and post another one after a certain period of time. 

5. Personalization 

Everyone likes it when you call them by their name. It has a psychological effect on their brain and makes them feel better. By calling them by their name, you can be seen as a familiar figure, and it increases the possibility of being viewed or clicked. Use “you” to make the email friendlier.

You can also use the location of a user to provide a more personalized email, but be sure that it isn’t creepy. 

6. Avoid Using False Promises 

Do not use false promises for your email subject lines. It brings a bad reputation to your company, and readers lose their trust. If you have written about an offer in the subject line, but it is not present in the body of the email, it will irritate the reader as he will think he has wasted his time.

Furthermore, such a bad experience will take a long time to recover, and your business will undoubtedly face a terrible time. 

7. Use Compelling Questions 

You can ask a compelling question that relates to your business so that interested people can click on it. It is useful because only interested people will click on it, and the sells will be higher. You do not only want people to read your email but also buy your product or service. A lot of businesses use the compelling question, so be sure that your subject stands out.

Some examples can be:

• Have you tried these SEO techniques? 
• Are you familiar with the most effective marketing techniques? 

Again, be sure that the question relates to your email’s body, and people can see an idea about your email. 

These seven tactics are beneficial for email marketing. With variations in your emails, you can attract more ‘interested’ people who will be willing to buy your products or read your blog post. 

Big corporations are now using email marketing, so it can be slightly hard to stand out. But with the right strategies, you can have success. 

8. Tailor Your Audiences for Targeted Impact

One of the most effective ways to boost subject line engagement is through audience segmentation and personalization.

Email subject lines that directly speak to specific subscriber groups see higher open rates. Analyze your list to identify customer personas, interests, and demographics to target.

For example, an e-commerce site could have a great email subject line like:

• [First Name], fresh trends perfect for spring are here!
• New arrivals in [their category preferences] clothing
• 30% off weekend flash sale on [brand she loves]

Testing tailored subjects against more generic ones will reveal which resonates most per segment. Avoid assumptions by letting data guide decisions.

Subject personalization should steer clear of overfamiliarity and demonstrate you know your subscribers without being creepy. Segmenting and targeting ensure relevancy that pays off in increased opens.

9. Create Intriguing Preview Text for Engagement

Including descriptive preview text underneath email subjects generates more intrigue to open. Keep preview content concise at around 40-50 characters. Summarize key details or highlight specific content included in the email to pique curiosity.

For instance, a hotel could write:

• Memorable Getaways Await You This Spring
• Discover deals at our tropical beachfront resorts

A webinar invite might include:

• [Webinar Title] – Airing [Date]
• Reserve your spot and receive the recording.

A vivid preview copy entices subscribers to open for the full details. Ensure the preview specifically supports the headline rather than generically labeling the content as an e-newsletter. Descriptive previews demonstrate relevancy at a glance.

10. Maintain a Balance and Tone in Punctuation

When using punctuation in email subjects, try to strike the right tone. Periods feel instructional, exclamation points convey excitement, and question marks solicit a response.

Using them appropriately for your brand voice and content strengthens engagement. However, over-punctuation looks unprofessional and can trigger spam filters.

A newsletter may state:

• A new quarterly newsletter is available
• While a promotional offer exclaims:
• Flash sale this weekend only!

Aim for balance – some subjects can forgo punctuation when it doesn’t suit the tone. Avoid excessive exclamation points or strings of question marks. Punctuation can add personality when used judiciously based on context and audience expectations.

11. Leverage AI

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing email subject line creation. AI-powered tools analyze data to generate high-performing subject line options that you can customize.

AI looks at variables like word choice, structure, length, sentiment, and more to create smart recommendations. It uses natural language processing to turn concepts into catchy, clicks-driving subject lines.

Consider using AI to:

• Get new subject line ideas you’d never think of
• Optimize subject lines specifically for your recipients and industry
• Save time over writing subject lines manually
• Improve open and click-through rates

12. Sidestep the Spam Trap

Many common tactics like ALL CAPS and over-punctuation !!! It can trigger spam filters, preventing email delivery. Avoid these and other risky practices:

• All or mostly capital letters
• Excessive punctuation like !!! And????
• Odd spellings or repeating letters
• Deceptive claims like “free money.”
• Misleading dates/times like “flash sale ends tonight!”
• Overuse of trigger words like “alert” or “bonus.”

Instead, build reader interest with honest, clear language:

Non-spammy subject line examples include:

• From: “Get 20% off your purchase this Friday.”

13. Consider Responsive Mobile Display

Email usage has shifted tremendously towards mobile over the past decade. According to statistics, over 85% of all emails are now opened on mobile devices. As such, the subject line needs to be maximized for tiny mobile screens.

Keep the subject line short at around 50 characters or less so it does not get truncated on small displays. Use fewer words and emphasize impactful keywords that maintain relevance when shortened.

Test different subject line variants by previewing how they appear on your phone to ensure a clear call-to-action at a glance, even in a thumbnail view inside email apps and lock screens.

With so many emails left unread due to small print, crafting mobile-optimized subject lines is paramount for cutting through the clutter and getting your message noticed regardless of device.

14. Conduct Subject Line Trials through A/B Testing

To continuously improve subject line performance, test different versions using email service provider tools for real-time A/B tests. Start by reviewing top-performing campaigns and brainstorm fresh angles derived from best practices.

Then, craft a new wave of subject line variants targeting the same list. Examples to test include modifying the tone from casual to urgent, altering keywords, or adjusting punctuation.

Launch the new split test series and compare metrics like open and click-through rates to find the most tantalizing teaser. Keep refining underperforming lines through trials to maximize engagement.

Over time, A/B testing provides valuable insight into your target audience’s preferences. Continued subject line optimization ensures every email lands with impact to drive more conversions through curiosity and intrigue.

15. Re-engage with Your Recipients Strategically

After the initial opt-in, ongoing email relevance relies on strategic re-engagement over time and plans regular cadences, whether weekly, monthly, or seasonal, with subjects hooking past readers back in. One approach is reacting to major news within your industry or niche.

Holidays also offer an opportunity to creatively brief clients. However, avoid repetitive seasonal greetings after the first few years. Consider tailored “Just For You” campaigns thanking loyal customers by name. Polls or quizzes can spark interaction, then reward it with exclusive offers.

It’s also wise to set aside reactivation emails for those who drifted with value propositions to renew their interest. Periodic reconnection reminds recipients of your expertise and prompts them to take needed action on your call to communicate in subject lines.

Email Subject Lines Examples

Creating the best email subject lines that drive email opens and clicks is a fine art. We’ve discussed the importance of optimization tactics like A/B testing, etc. But truly understanding email subject line best practices involves examining real-world examples from high-performing brands. Sample subject lines can offer a wealth of ideas to spark your creative process.

Let’s start looking at the best email subject lines that have proven results we can learn from –

1. Curiosity Subject Lines

• We Have Good News to Share
• Another Task Completed Successfully
• I Couldn’t Contain My Excitement…
• Seemed Like a Good Idea Back Then…
• Try This Ten-Minute Project – It’s Worth It!
• Dear {Name}, I’m Trying Something New
• Think Twice Before Opening This Email
• Last Chance to Discover Our Mystery Email
• Is This the Hottest Marketing Career?

2. Personalized Subject Lines

• Guess What? Check Out These Specially Selected Looks for You, (Name)
• Happy Birthday, (Name)! There’s a Surprise Waiting from (Company Name)
• Hi (Name), Do You Remember Me?
• Hey Mary, Didn’t See Your Name in the Comments!?
• (Name), A Crazy Invitation – Dinner’s On Me!

3. Funny Email Subject Lines

• Nature’s not playing fair today! ⚽
• I’m not so great at business.
• Get ready to laugh out loud!
• Nope, not turning into a food blog…haha
• The Good, the Bad, and…I need a nap
• A little secret: We found your dancing video!
• Cute Animals and Pizza. Need we say more?
• Pizza Lovers, Rejoice Free Pizza Alert!
• Extra Nap Time Approved by Your Boss!

4. Catchy Email Subject Lines

• Surprise Sale Alert! Up to 50% Off Tomorrow!
• Our Prices Beat the Cold Outside – Come Shop!
• Discover Game-Changing Tips You’ll Love!
• Exclusive Offer Inside – Don’t Miss Out!
• New Product Alert: Grab Yours Now!
• Earn More Rewards with Every Purchase!
• Game-Time Gear Savings – Last Call!
• [Event] Ending Soon – Sale Continues!

5. FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out Email Subject Lines

• Hurry! Offer Ends Today
• Get an Exclusive First Look at [Product/Event]!
• Act Fast! Limited Stock for [Product] – Grab Yours!
• Hey! Only One Day Left to Watch This!
• Time’s Ticking: Your 7-Figure Plan Ends at Midnight!
• Urgent: Grab This NOW, Weekend Special!
• 🎁 Don’t Miss Out, (Name)! Freebies Going Away Tonight!

6. Welcome Email Subject Lines

• Hey [Name], You’re Now Part of [Business]
• You’re Almost There! Finish Your [Product] Registration ✅
• Join the Club and Enjoy Your Exclusive Coupon!
• Great Choice! 😎 You’re Now Subscribed to [Service/Product]”
• Welcome Gift Ready for You!
• Welcome ❤ Free Goodies Await You for Joining the Fun!
• Greetings and Welcome to My Tribe! Open for Something Special!
• Thanks for Joining the Mailing List – Your Appreciation Gift Is Waiting!

Bottom Line

With these 15 best email subject line tips in your toolkit, you have the strategies needed to write personalized subject lines that will get your messages opened. Always lead with value to build trust with subscribers. Prioritize clarity and keep subjects concise.

Sprinkle in creativity once you’ve mastered the fundamentals. Personalization, urgency cues, bracketed phrases, emojis, and more all help subject lines stand out but avoid overusing gimmicks.

Remember to tailor approaches based on your industry, audience preferences, and campaign goals. Test different options and analyze open rates to determine what resonates most. Creating relevant, benefit-driven subject lines that speak directly to your subscribers’ needs will serve your email marketing well. Best of luck crafting irresistible subjects that cut through the noise.

Jainy patel

Jainy Patel is a content editor having over 7 years of experience in the B2B & SaaS industry. With a keen eye for detail, she’s always striving to create content that resonates with the target audience. Her interests include reading, traveling, and staying up-to-date with the latest marketing trends.