How do you craft a catchy title for your journal cover letter?

1 Use keywords and phrases

One of the first things that the editor will look at is the title of your cover letter. It should contain keywords and phrases that match the scope and focus of the journal and your manuscript. For example, if you are submitting to a journal that publishes articles on environmental economics, you might use terms like "carbon tax", "green growth", or "climate change". Keywords and phrases also help your cover letter to be more searchable and discoverable online.

2 Be specific and concise

Another important aspect of your cover letter title is to be specific and concise. Avoid vague or general terms that do not convey the main idea or purpose of your manuscript. For example, instead of writing "A study on the effects of trade policy on welfare", you might write "How trade liberalization affects income inequality and poverty in developing countries". A specific and concise title will show the editor that you have a clear and focused research question and that you can communicate it effectively.

3 Avoid jargon and acronyms

While you want to use keywords and phrases that are relevant to your field and journal, you also want to avoid jargon and acronyms that might confuse or alienate the editor or other readers. Jargon is specialized or technical language that is only understood by a specific group of people. Acronyms are abbreviations that are formed from the initial letters of words. For example, you might want to avoid using terms like "OLS", "GDP", or "IV" in your cover letter title, unless they are widely known and accepted in your discipline. Instead, you might spell out the full terms or use more accessible synonyms.

4 Use a colon or a question

A common way to structure your cover letter title is to use a colon or a question. A colon can help you separate the main topic from the specific angle or perspective that you are taking. For example, you might write "Carbon tax and green growth: A dynamic general equilibrium analysis". A question can help you generate curiosity and interest in your manuscript and invite the editor to read more. For example, you might write "Does trade liberalization increase income inequality and poverty in developing countries?". Both methods can help you create a catchy and informative title for your cover letter.

5 Check the journal guidelines and examples

Before you finalize your cover letter title, you should always check the journal guidelines and examples. Different journals may have different preferences or requirements for the format, length, and style of your cover letter title. You should follow the instructions and suggestions provided by the journal to ensure that your cover letter meets their expectations and standards. You can also look at some examples of successful cover letters that have been published in the journal or in your field to get some inspiration and ideas.

6 Edit and proofread your title

Finally, you should edit and proofread your cover letter title to make sure that it is clear, accurate, and error-free. You should check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization mistakes that might undermine your credibility and professionalism. You should also check for consistency, coherence, and logic in your title and make sure that it matches the content and tone of your cover letter and manuscript. A well-written and polished title will create a positive impression on the editor and increase your chances of getting your manuscript accepted.