When it comes to writing engaging and informative content, every detail counts. From the choice of words to the formatting of the text, every element plays a crucial role in delivering a message effectively. Two terms that often cause confusion among writers are subheadline and subheading. While they may seem interchangeable, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the meaning of subheadline vs subheading and when to use each one.
It’s important to clarify the definitions of subheadline and subheading. A subheadline is a secondary headline that appears below the main headline and provides additional information about the content. It can be longer than the main headline and is meant to entice the reader to continue reading. On the other hand, a subheading is a smaller heading that appears within the body of the text. It is used to break up the content into smaller sections and provide a brief summary of what the following text will cover.
So, which one should you use? The answer depends on the context and purpose of your content. If you are writing a news article or a blog post that requires a catchy and attention-grabbing headline, a subheadline can be a great way to add more depth and intrigue to your main headline. However, if you are writing a longer piece of content, such as a report or an academic paper, subheadings can help break up the text and make it easier to read and navigate.
Ultimately, the choice between subheadline and subheading comes down to your specific writing goals and the type of content you are creating. By understanding the differences between the two, you can make an informed decision and create content that is both engaging and effective.
Define Subheadline
A subheadline is a secondary headline that appears immediately below the main headline of an article or webpage. It provides additional context and elaborates on the main headline, often in a smaller font size and with a different style. The subheadline is usually a sentence or two in length and serves to entice the reader to continue reading the rest of the content.
Define Subheading
A subheading, on the other hand, is a heading that appears within the body of an article or webpage. It is used to break up the content into smaller sections and to provide a clear structure for the reader. Subheadings are typically bolder and larger in font size than the surrounding text, making them stand out on the page. They can be used to introduce new topics or ideas, provide summaries of the content, or to simply make the text more readable.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to writing an article, it’s important to use the right terminology to convey your message effectively. Two commonly used terms are subheadline and subheading, but many people are unsure of how to properly use them in a sentence. In this section, we’ll explore the correct usage of both terms.
How To Use Subheadline In A Sentence
A subheadline is a secondary headline that appears below the main headline. Its purpose is to provide additional information or context to the reader. Here are some tips on how to use subheadline in a sentence:
- Use subheadline to provide a brief summary of the main article.
- Make sure that the subheadline is related to the main headline and the article content.
- Keep the subheadline short and concise, ideally no more than 10-15 words.
- Use subheadline to highlight a key point or to introduce a new topic within the article.
- Italicize or bold the subheadline to make it stand out from the rest of the text.
Here’s an example of how to use subheadline in a sentence:
Main Headline: The Benefits of Yoga for Mental Health
Subheadline: Discover how practicing yoga can improve your overall well-being and reduce stress levels.
How To Use Subheading In A Sentence
A subheading is a secondary heading that appears within the body of the article. Its purpose is to break up the text and make it easier to read, as well as to provide additional information or context to the reader. Here are some tips on how to use subheading in a sentence:
- Use subheading to introduce a new section or topic within the article.
- Make sure that the subheading is related to the main headline, subheadline, and the article content.
- Keep the subheading short and concise, ideally no more than 5-7 words.
- Use subheading to highlight a key point or to provide a summary of the section.
- Use a consistent formatting style for subheadings throughout the article.
Here’s an example of how to use subheading in a sentence:
Main Headline: The Benefits of Yoga for Mental Health
Subheadline: Discover how practicing yoga can improve your overall well-being and reduce stress levels.
Subheading: Reducing Anxiety and Depression
By following these tips, you can effectively use subheadline and subheading in your articles to provide additional information and make your content more readable and engaging for your readers.
More Examples Of Subheadline & Subheading Used In Sentences
In this section, we will explore more examples of how subheadline and subheading are used in sentences. These examples will help you understand the differences between the two and how they can be used effectively in your writing.
Examples Of Using Subheadline In A Sentence
- Subheadline: The Benefits of Regular Exercise
- Article Headline: How to Stay Healthy and Fit
- Sentence: The subheadline of the article highlights the specific benefits of regular exercise.
- Subheadline: The History of the Eiffel Tower
- Article Headline: Exploring Paris: A Guide to the City of Lights
- Sentence: The subheadline of the article provides readers with a glimpse into the history of the iconic Eiffel Tower.
- Subheadline: The Importance of Financial Planning
- Article Headline: How to Achieve Financial Freedom
- Sentence: The subheadline of the article emphasizes the importance of financial planning as a key component of achieving financial freedom.
- Subheadline: The Health Benefits of Green Tea
- Article Headline: The Ultimate Guide to Tea
- Sentence: The subheadline of the article highlights the specific health benefits of green tea, which is one of the most popular types of tea.
- Subheadline: The Future of Renewable Energy
- Article Headline: Powering the Future: A Look at Renewable Energy
- Sentence: The subheadline of the article provides readers with a glimpse into the future of renewable energy and its potential impact on the world.
Examples Of Using Subheading In A Sentence
- Subheading: Introduction
- Article Title: The Benefits of Meditation
- Sentence: The subheading of the article provides readers with an introduction to the topic of meditation and its benefits.
- Subheading: Types of Meditation
- Article Title: Exploring the World of Meditation
- Sentence: The subheading of the article provides readers with an overview of the different types of meditation that exist.
- Subheading: How to Meditate
- Article Title: A Beginner’s Guide to Meditation
- Sentence: The subheading of the article provides readers with practical tips on how to meditate, which is especially useful for beginners.
- Subheading: The Benefits of Mindfulness
- Article Title: Mindfulness: A Path to Inner Peace
- Sentence: The subheading of the article focuses specifically on the benefits of mindfulness, which is a key component of the practice of meditation.
- Subheading: Meditation and Stress Reduction
- Article Title: How Meditation Can Help You Reduce Stress
- Sentence: The subheading of the article highlights the specific ways in which meditation can be used as a tool for stress reduction.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to writing content, it’s important to understand the difference between a subheadline and a subheading. Unfortunately, many people use these terms interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and ineffective communication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Mistake #1: Using Subheadline And Subheading Interchangeably
One of the biggest mistakes people make is using subheadline and subheading interchangeably. While they may seem similar, they serve different purposes.
| Subheadline | Subheading |
|---|---|
| Provides a brief summary or explanation of the main headline | Divides the content into sections |
| Appears above the headline | Appears below the headline |
| Usually larger and bolder than the headline | Usually smaller and less bold than the headline |
As you can see, subheadlines and subheadings have distinct differences. Using them interchangeably can confuse readers and make your content less effective.
Mistake #2: Not Using Subheadlines Or Subheadings At All
Another common mistake is not using subheadlines or subheadings at all. This can make your content difficult to read and understand. Subheadlines and subheadings help break up your content into manageable sections, making it easier for readers to scan and find the information they need.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
To avoid these mistakes, follow these tips:
- Understand the difference between a subheadline and a subheading
- Use subheadlines and subheadings appropriately
- Make sure your subheadlines and subheadings are clear and concise
- Use formatting, such as bold or italics, to make your subheadlines and subheadings stand out
By following these tips, you can ensure that your content is easy to read and understand, and that your message is effectively communicated to your audience.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between subheadline and subheading, context is a crucial consideration. The choice between the two can depend on the type of content being written and the purpose it serves.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between subheadline and subheading might change:
- News Articles: In a news article, a subheadline might be used to provide a brief summary of the article’s main points, while subheadings could be used to break down the article into different sections.
- Academic Papers: In an academic paper, subheadings are often used to organize the content and help readers navigate through the material. Subheadlines, on the other hand, may be less common in this context.
- Marketing Copy: In marketing copy, subheadlines are often used to grab the reader’s attention and entice them to keep reading. Subheadings may be used to break down the content into different sections, but they may not be as attention-grabbing as subheadlines.
Ultimately, the choice between subheadline and subheading depends on the writer’s goals and the context in which the content will be read. By considering these factors, writers can choose the most effective option for their particular piece of content.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using subheadline and subheading are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:
1. Single-page Articles
In single-page articles, the use of subheadlines and subheadings might not be necessary. This is because there is no need to break up the content into sections as the entire article is displayed on one page. However, if the article is lengthy, it might still be helpful to use subheadlines and subheadings to guide the reader through the content.
2. Creative Writing
In creative writing, the rules for using subheadlines and subheadings can be more flexible. Depending on the style and tone of the piece, subheadlines and subheadings can be used to add emphasis or to break up the content in a unique way. For example, a poem might use subheadings to separate stanzas or to create a visual effect.
3. Branding And Marketing
In branding and marketing, the use of subheadlines and subheadings can vary depending on the company’s style and branding guidelines. Some companies might prefer to use subheadlines and subheadings consistently throughout all of their content, while others might only use them for certain types of content, such as blog articles or landing pages. In some cases, a company might choose to use a different term altogether, such as “section headers” or “chapter titles.”
4. Non-english Content
In non-English content, the use of subheadlines and subheadings might not be applicable at all. This is because different languages have different rules for grammar and sentence structure, which can affect the way content is organized and presented. For example, in some languages, such as Japanese or Chinese, it is common to use vertical text for headings instead of horizontal text.
Overall, while the rules for using subheadline and subheading are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind. By understanding these exceptions and adapting your use of subheadlines and subheadings accordingly, you can create content that is both informative and engaging for your audience.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have discussed the differences between subheadlines and subheadings, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Below are some exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of these two elements in sentences.
Exercise 1: Identify The Subheadline Or Subheading
For each of the following sentences, identify whether the bolded text is a subheadline or a subheading:
- Subheadline: How to Improve Your Writing Skills
- Subheading: Step 1: Read Widely
- Subheading: Step 2: Write Every Day
- Subheadline: The Importance of Grammar in Writing
- Subheading: Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid
Answer Key:
| Sentence | Answer |
|---|---|
| How to Improve Your Writing Skills | Subheadline |
| Step 1: Read Widely | Subheading |
| Step 2: Write Every Day | Subheading |
| The Importance of Grammar in Writing | Subheadline |
| Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid | Subheading |
Exercise 2: Create Subheadlines And Subheadings
Now it’s time to practice creating your own subheadlines and subheadings. Use the following sentences as a base and add a subheadline or subheading to make the content more organized and easier to read:
- Your Guide to Planning a Successful Event
- 10 Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Vacation
- The Benefits of Yoga for Your Mind and Body
Answer Key:
| Sentence | Subheadline/Subheading |
|---|---|
| Your Guide to Planning a Successful Event | Key Steps for Planning Your Event |
| 10 Tips for Saving Money on Your Next Vacation | Tip 1: Book Your Flights in Advance |
| The Benefits of Yoga for Your Mind and Body | How Yoga Can Improve Your Mental Health |
By practicing these exercises, you’ll be able to confidently use subheadlines and subheadings in your own writing, making your content more organized and easier to read for your audience.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between subheadlines and subheadings, it is clear that these two terms are often used interchangeably, but they serve different purposes in writing. While subheadlines are designed to grab the reader’s attention and provide a brief overview of the article’s content, subheadings are used to organize the text and make it easier to read.
It is important to use both subheadlines and subheadings effectively in order to create a well-structured and engaging piece of writing. By using descriptive and attention-grabbing subheadlines, writers can draw readers in and encourage them to continue reading. Meanwhile, clear and concise subheadings can help readers navigate the text and find the information they need more easily.
Overall, the key takeaway from this article is that subheadlines and subheadings are both important tools in the writer’s arsenal, and they should be used strategically to enhance the readability and impact of the text. By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, writers can improve their writing skills and create more effective and engaging content.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.