Writing Email Subjects

Overview

Create a small set of subject line options that match the email’s intent and tone without adding new commitments or changing meaning.

When to Use

• You have the body (or a rough draft) but no subject line yet
• The current subject is vague (“Update”, “Quick question”) or too long
• You need variants for different tones (neutral vs. urgent) or audiences (internal vs. external)

When NOT to use

• The subject is fixed by a system/process (ticket IDs, legal notices)

Quick Reference

• Keep it short: ~3–8 words when possible
• Put the differentiator early (topic, date, action)
• Avoid spammy phrasing (ALL CAPS, excessive punctuation)