9/11/2025

 When looking at articles online, viewers often consider the article with an eye-catching or shocking headline. They look for keywords, phrases, and other factors that could pique their current interests. In the new age of technology, Google search engine optimization has taken away the need for endless searching online to find a compelling article. Google takes analytics and certain keywords and ranks them based on the likelihood to one's search. Holly Morris, in her National Public Radio article, explains that good headlines have to attract both the readers alone and the search engine results. This shows a need for the careful placement of words and phrases in a way that captures the eye while also falling into many searches. She explained that the headlines need to be concise yet conversational and to perhaps play around with detail or humor if appropriate. She explains that in order for Google to pick it up, it needs to be straightforward with plenty of keyword options.

This article shows not only the science but the psychological art behind article headline creation. They need to emotionally and mentally appeal to the audience while following strict keyword guidelines that allow it to be successful to the general public through Google search. She shows that there is a playful balance between these two elements and that there should be an even amount of human creativity and straightforward methodology. It means creating a headline that is smart and witty, while being findable online. 

Similar to before, my question revolves around the decision-making as a writer. How does a writer determine when to make the headline playful and compelling, or when to make it information dense and findable?

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