The subject is the first, and sometimes only, thing read.
Direct answer
A good subject line is specific, short and action-oriented. Put key information first and say if action is needed and by when. Avoid vague words like "Hi" or "Question" and avoid spammy phrases.
Formulas
- Action + deadline: "Approve budget by Friday"
- Topic + detail: "Project Atlas: launch date moved to 14 May"
- Question: "Can you attend the 3pm review?"
- FYI: "FYI: new expense policy"
Before and after
| Before | After |
|---|---|
| Update | Sales update: Q2 results attached |
| Meeting | Moving Monday's meeting to 3pm |
| Request | Need your sign-off on invoice 1042 by Thu |
Where Teyro fits
Teyro's Clear Writing at Work course turns this into short lessons you can play in a few minutes a day. It has 50 lessons, and you can start free.
The bottom line
Tell the reader why they should open it.
