How to Write a Good Research Title

Cite this article as: Sani, A-U. (2023). How to Write a Good Research Title. https://www.amsoshi.com/2023/11/how-to-write-good-research-title.html. 

How to Write a Good Research Title

Abu-Ubaida Sani

Department of Languages and Cultures
Federal University Gusau, Zamfara, Nigeria
Email 1: abuubaidasani5@gmail.com
Email 2: abu-ubaidallah@fugusau.edu.ng
Phone: +2348133529736

Introduction

The title of a research paper is often the first thing readers see, and it plays a crucial role in attracting their attention. A well-crafted research title can pique curiosity, convey the essence of your study, and provide a clear roadmap for what readers can expect in your paper. While it might seem like a minor detail, the research title is, in fact, a critical element of your work. So, how do you write a good research title? Here are some essential tips to help you craft an effective and compelling title for your research paper.

Be Clear and Concise

The primary purpose of a research title is to communicate the subject of your study quickly and clearly. Avoid vague or overly complex language that may confuse or mislead your audience. Instead, aim for a concise and straightforward title that accurately represents the focus of your research. A good research title should be able to stand on its own and give readers a clear idea of what your paper is about.

Example:

Unclear Title: "An Investigation into the Various Factors Impacting Student Performance in Education Institutions"

Clear and Concise Title: "The Effects of Teacher-Student Interaction on Academic Achievement"

Use Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords into your research title. Keywords are the terms or phrases that are central to your research topic and are frequently used in your field. Including keywords in your title can enhance the discoverability of your paper in online databases and search engines. It can also help readers understand the subject matter of your research at a glance.

Example:

Generic Title: "Educational Outcomes in Schools"

Keyword-Enriched Title: "Assessing the Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Outcomes in Urban High Schools"

Be Specific

A good research title should be specific and not overly general. Avoid titles that are too broad or vague. Instead, focus on narrowing down your research topic to a specific aspect or question. A specific title is more likely to attract readers who are interested in your precise area of study and less likely to attract those looking for unrelated information.

Example:

Broad Title: "Environmental Pollution and Public Health"

Specific Title: "The Impact of Airborne Particulate Matter on Respiratory Health in Urban Areas"

Highlight the Research Method

If your research employs a specific methodology, it can be beneficial to include it in the title. For instance, if you are conducting a case study, a survey, or an experimental study, mentioning the research method can provide valuable information to your audience. Including the research method in the title can also signal the rigor and approach of your research.

Example:

Generic Title: "Consumer Preferences in the Digital Age"

Method-Inclusive Title: "A Survey of Online Shopping Behavior among Millennials"

Emphasize the Key Variables

If your research focuses on particular variables, concepts, or factors, consider including them in the title. This can help potential readers understand the key elements of your study and generate interest among those who are interested in those specific variables. Be careful not to overload the title with too many details, but choose the most crucial ones.

Example:

General Title: "Economic Growth and Sustainability"

Variable-Focused Title: "The Role of Renewable Energy Investment in Promoting Economic Growth and Environmental 

Avoid Jargon

While it's important to use field-specific keywords, it's equally important to avoid jargon and technical terms that may be unfamiliar to a broader audience. Your title should be accessible to a wide range of readers, including those who may not be experts in your field. If you must use technical terms, ensure that they are essential for understanding the research and provide explanations or definitions when necessary.

Example:

Jargon-Heavy Title: "Quantum Computing Applications in Cryptography"

Jargon-Free Title: "Enhancing Data Security: Exploring Quantum Computing's Potential in Cryptography"

Consider the Tone

The tone of your research title can influence the perception of your paper. Depending on your research topic and audience, you can opt for a formal, academic tone, or a more creative and engaging one. Consider the preferences of your target readers and the conventions in your field when choosing the tone for your title.

Example:

Formal Title: "A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Economic Indicators"

Engaging Title: "Unraveling the Economic Enigma: A Fascinating Exploration of Key Indicators"

Make It Engaging

While clarity and specificity are crucial, a good research title should also be engaging and intriguing. An interesting title can capture the attention of potential readers and entice them to explore your paper further. You can use wordplay, alliteration, a thought-provoking question, or a surprising fact to make your title more engaging.

Example:

Dry Title: "A Study of Urban Traffic Congestion"

Engaging Title: "Navigating the Gridlock: Tackling Urban Traffic Chaos with Innovative Solutions"

Proofread and Edit

Before finalizing your research title, carefully proofread and edit it for spelling and grammar errors. A well-written title reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which can positively impact your paper's reception.

Example:

Title with Errors: "The Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculure"

Polished Title: "The Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture"

Seek Feedback

It's a good idea to seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues on your research title. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions to help you improve the title and make it more effective.

In conclusion, a good research title is not just a label for your paper but an important tool to capture the interest of potential readers and convey the essence of your study. By following these guidelines, you can craft a research title that is clear, concise, specific, and engaging, increasing the visibility and impact of your research within your field and the broader academic community. Remember that the title is the first impression your research paper makes, so invest time and effort into getting it right.

References

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.

Swales, J. M., & Feak, C. B. (2012). Academic writing for graduate students: Essential tasks and skills (3rd ed.). University of Michigan Press.

Day, R. A. (1998). Scientific English: A guide for scientists and other professionals. ABC-CLIO.

Zeiger, M. (2000). Essentials of writing biomedical research papers (2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill.

Gopen, G. D., & Swan, J. A. (1990). The science of scientific writing. American Scientist, 78(6), 550-558.