headline-refiner

Headline Refiner

Transform weak headlines into compelling ones using the 5-Part Headline Framework.

Quick Example

Before: "Writing Tips" After: "7 writing habits that helped me publish 300 articles in 2 years"

Workflow

Step 1: Analyze the Current Headline

Identify which of the 5 components are present or missing:

• Number — How many things promised?
• What — Is the topic clear?
• Who — Is the audience explicit or implied?
• Why — Is there a positive or negative outcome?
• Twist — Are additional outcomes stacked?

For detailed guidance on each component, see references/framework-guide.md.

Step 2: Clarify the Content

Before refining, understand:

• What exactly is the reader getting?
• Who is the ideal reader?
• What outcome do they want? What do they want to avoid?

Step 3: Generate Refined Options

Produce 3-5 headline variations. Include at least:

• One with explicit audience naming
• One with positive outcome framing
• One with negative outcome framing
• One that "twists the knife" with stacked outcomes

Step 4: Validate and Recommend

Verify each option against the checklist in references/framework-guide.md. Select the strongest based on:

• Clarity (if confused, reader is gone)
• Specificity (concrete > vague)
• Relevance to target audience
• Platform constraints (if applicable)

Platform Constraints

When space is limited, prioritize in this order:

1. What (always required—clarity is non-negotiable)
2. Number (helps set expectations)
3. Who (if building an audience, name them)
4. Why (positive or negative outcome)
5. Twist (only if space allows)

YouTube Shorts: ~6 words | Email subjects: ~9 words | Full headlines: no limit