Coming Up With A Good Title For A Research Paper: Effective Tips

After your research paper is finally completed, creating a suitable title doesn’t seem to be such a big deal. However, don’t be surprised if you find yourself stuck at this point. The title is the first thing your reader will see. It should not only summarize the gist of your paper but also capture the reader’s attention and make your piece differ from the similar works in the niche. Writing a title requires some serious thought, so don’t put the task off till the last moment.

How to Succeed in the Task

Consider the following tips to come up with an interesting title for your research paper:

• Use the keywords from your writing.

Your title should summarize your work. Therefore, use the keywords from your paper to help the reader understand what your project will be about. Playing on keywords may add some originality to your title as well.

• Apply the standard formula.

It is commonly recommended to divide the title into two parts with a colon: the first part should be creative and catchy while the second one should clearly explain what the author means.

• Use an apt quote.

If there is a quotation that effectively conveys the essence of your research, use it in your title. The quote can be taken from a credible scholarly source or a literary work being analyzed.

• Use a cliché or a clever play on words.

It’s great if you associate the topic of your paper with a well-known cliché and apply this trick in your title. Sometimes, a cliché on a similar theme may be reworked in a striking phrase that will efficiently hook the reader.

• Summarize your thesis in three words.

If you are not good at playing on words, think of three words conveying the meaning of your thesis, put a colon, and explain what your paper will be about.

• Be clear and simple.

Don’t use unnecessary words, complex terms, and unknown abbreviations when naming your work.

Examples of Good Research Paper Titles

• Living on the edge: the battle over regulations on the endangered species survival.


• Toil and trouble: exploring the theme of murder in Macbeth.


• Prudence and the pill: popular birth control trends of nowadays.


• Mandatory safety: why vaccinate my child?


• Stuck between life and death: attitudes towards assisted suicide.


• To smoke or not to smoke: isn’t it my human right?


• Self-expression or self-suppression: advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms.


• Discrimination in the workplace: why do patients prefer female nurses?


• Under-achievement or over-expectation: should educational standards be reviewed?