Four steps to getting a better title

Why do academics choose useless titles for articles and chapters? Four steps to getting a better title.

A ‘cute’ title using ‘ordinary language’ words with a clear meaning, but taken radically out of context.

A ‘cute’ title that is completely obscure.

An ultra-vague, vacuous, completely conventional, or wholly formal title, preferably one that could mean almost anything.

An empty box title.

The look-alike, empty box title

The interrogative title, which must always end with a question mark.

Four steps to getting a better title

The first step is to look seriously, critically and comparatively at a range of possible alternatives.

The second step is to look at whether your title words are picked up in the abstract of the the article or chapter, and in the internal sub-headings.

A third step is to consider using a full narrative title, one that makes completely clear what your argument, conclusions or findings are.

a fourth step ... is to at least provide some narrative cues in your title, some helpful hints or signs for readers about the conclusions you have reached or the line of argument you are making.