How can you know when your title is right? The acronym “ACE” will help you create a memorable title.
“A” is for accurate. The title must truthfully reveal the focus of the article or book and also fit its tone. You wouldn’t put “Buffalo Bob Bites Bullet” on a serious crime story any more than the President would turn up for a televised press conference in a sweat suit.
“C” is for concise. Five to seven words are a typically good length. Active verbs, specific nouns, and bright adjectives help tighten the message.
“E” is for eye-catching. You have just a few words to convince the reader you can provide what he wants. So you appeal to his felt-need, whether that is for information, inspiration, consternation, or confirmation. One study showed that use of pronouns (“you,” “I,” “they”) and the “how-to” approach made for stronger titles.
Put a lot of thought in a title before sending your manuscript to an editor. The first person you need to impress is him, so he will publish your article or story.