10 Top Tips for YouTube Title Length: Clickable and Optimized Titles

Your YouTube video title is one of the most critical factors for attracting viewers. It not only influences your click-through rate (CTR) but also helps your content rank better on YouTube and Google. Finding the right title length is essential for engaging your audience and maximizing visibility. Below are some actionable tips for determining the ideal YouTube title length and writing titles that perform.

1. Keep Titles Under 60 Characters

YouTube typically displays the first 60 characters of a title before truncating it. Staying within this limit ensures your title is fully visible across all devices, including mobile, where most users browse. A concise and clear title delivers your message without overwhelming the viewer.

Example:

• Too Long: “10 Amazing Tips to Boost Your YouTube Views and Subscribers in Record Time”
• Optimal: “10 Tips to Boost YouTube Views Fast”

2. Lead with Important Words

Place the most critical information or keywords at the beginning of your title. This strategy ensures viewers and algorithms immediately understand the video’s topic, even if the title gets cut off.

Example:

• Better: “Free Workout Plan: Lose Weight Fast”
• Worse: “Lose Weight Fast with This Free Workout Plan”

3. Include Keywords for SEO

Optimizing your title for search is crucial for discoverability. Use relevant keywords that align with your audience’s search queries. A well-optimized title helps your video rank higher in search results and reach a broader audience.

Example:

• Target Keyword: “YouTube Title Tips”
• SEO-Friendly Title: “Top YouTube Title Tips to Boost Views”

4. Create Intrigue with Power Words

Words like “ultimate,” “shocking,” “proven,” and “easy” capture attention and entice clicks. Combine power words with actionable language to pique curiosity and encourage viewers to watch your video.

Example:

• Without Power Words: “How to Grow a YouTube Channel”
• With Power Words: “Proven Tips to Grow Your YouTube Channel Fast”

5. Avoid Clickbait

While it’s tempting to use sensational titles, misleading your audience damages your credibility and retention rates. Ensure your title accurately reflects the video’s content while still being engaging.

Example:

• Clickbait: “This Simple Trick Will Make You Famous Overnight!”
• Authentic: “5 Simple Tips to Grow Your Channel Quickly”

6. Use Numbers and Lists

Titles featuring numbers often perform better because they imply structured and actionable content. Additionally, numbers catch the eye and provide a sense of order.

Example:

• “7 Tips to Boost YouTube Engagement”
• “10 Video Ideas for Small YouTubers”

7. Optimize for Mobile Viewers

Over half of YouTube traffic comes from mobile devices, where space is even more limited. Ensure your titles are concise and impactful, prioritizing clarity and readability for smaller screens.

8. Use a Secondary Hook in Brackets or Parentheses

Adding extra context in brackets or parentheses can make your title more descriptive without adding clutter. This tactic works well to highlight key benefits or create urgency.

Example:

• “10 Best Editing Tips for YouTube (2024 Guide)”
• “How to Start a YouTube Channel [Step-by-Step]”

9. Test Multiple Title Variations

Experiment with different title lengths and styles to see what resonates with your audience. Tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ can help analyze your title’s performance and suggest optimizations.

10. Incorporate Emotional Triggers

Emotionally driven titles—whether they evoke curiosity, excitement, or fear of missing out (FOMO)—can significantly boost your CTR.

Example:

• Emotionless: “Common YouTube Mistakes”
• Emotional: “10 YouTube Mistakes You MUST Avoid!”

A great YouTube title can mean the difference between a viral hit and an overlooked video. By keeping your titles under 60 characters you can create clickable and optimized titles that draw viewers in. Test and refine your approach over time to discover what works best for your channel. The perfect title is not just about length—it’s about clarity, intrigue, and value!