How to choose a title judges remember

Your title is the very first impression your story makes. A good title makes the reader curious; a weak one simply labels the story.

Avoid the obvious

“The Mystery”, “My Adventure” and “A Scary Night” tell the reader nothing and are used by hundreds of writers.

Use a specific image or object

“The Red Umbrella”, “Platform Zero”, “Paper Cranes”. A concrete detail sparks the imagination.

Raise a question

“Why Grandad Stopped Whistling”, “The Day the Clocks Ran Backwards”. The reader wants the answer.

Use a line from the story

A striking phrase from your story can make a great title, and gains extra meaning once the reader finds it.

Your title does not have to be the topic

In the Muzayrah Prize, your story responds to the topic, but your title can be anything you like. A fresh title helps your story stand out.

Choose it last

Many writers find their title only after the story is finished, once they know what it is really about.

Try it: write five possible titles for your current story, then ask a friend which one they would most want to read.