Of course, you are familiar with using * headlines * to draw attention to web copies, brochures, articles, or documents. But * subheadings * can be just as effective in highlighting key points for your readers. And they also help make any document easier to read by breaking long blocks of text into easy-to-digest parts. (Hence my title “edible”. Hmm.)
Subtitles Break It Up
Captions are generally seen as gestures of goodwill towards your readers, as they are most often used to break lengthy articles into logical cuts. They can indicate a change of subject or simply divide a mass of type. Subheadings every four paragraphs or so allows readers to flick through your article or document and skip sections without losing track of their thoughts.
The next time you’re flipping through a magazine, watch your editors use subheadings for longer articles. Readers are very reluctant to read large blocks of text, so subtitles break everything down into small chunks.
Subtitles have “power of ideas”
Because captions grab the attention of your readers, you should use them to your advantage! Read your document or article to find out its main promotional points, then summarize the ideas as captions. This way, your readers absorb your main points in just seconds by flipping through the entire copy.
For best results, subheadings * should not * be read as a table of contents. For your captions to be attractive, it is important to include action or sales elements.
BORING SUBTITLES: “Our history”, “50 years in business”, “The success of our department”.
HOOKED SUBTITLES: “Five Customers Who Saved $ 10,000 With Us”, “The Industry’s Most Creative Solutions”, “Let Us Do All The Work For You!”
BONUS TIP: These types of captions also work wonderfully for * sales letters * and * proposals *. Experiment the next time you write a long letter; try watching it with and without subtitles. You will definitely see the difference!
Subtitle rule on the net!
When you’re writing a copy to post online, whether it’s in an email or on a website, it’s even more crucial to use captions! People don’t like to spend a lot of time reading online; eyestrain. Subheadings help readers read your main points and grasp your ideas quickly. And if they are looking for a particular piece of information, subtitles help them locate it faster.
If you’re writing an email that has more than one screen, try inserting captions every two to three paragraphs, if applicable. It only takes a minute, it helps you organize your information and your readers will love you for it!
Captions add interest
Even if your document is a white paper that’s as exciting as white rice, don’t be afraid to use ‘summary of everything’ captions to retain the reader’s interest and break up the copy. Remember, you want people to be drawn to reading your masterpiece, especially when it is a formal document!
Examples: “Excellent forecasts for the next quarter”, “Management improvements are needed” and “A 30% increase in sales is expected”.
So consider captions your new best friend, whether you’re writing an email, web copy, brochure, or report.
(c) 2000-2003 Alexandria K. Brown. All rights reserved.