13 Title Format To Go Viral With On YouTube
Creating a viral video often comes down to how you package it, and a strong title can be the deciding factor between success and failure. In 2024, proven title formats have emerged that resonate with audiences across niches.
A video's packaging can determine whether a video goes viral, or flops.
However, with so much data available, finding the appropriate inspiration on YouTube can be overwhelming.
To help you go viral, here are 13 Title Formats that have been proven in 2024, across 3 different niches in each example.
1) “I Survived [TIME] With [PERSON/SITUATION]”
Why It Works
This title grabs attention because it promises an exciting or intense story. Words like “survived” make people curious about the challenge and how you got through it. Adding a specific time frame, like “24 Hours,” gives viewers a clear idea of the effort involved, making them want to see what happened. Whether it’s surviving without food, spending a day in an extreme environment, or dealing with a tricky situation, this title makes people wonder, “Could I do that?”
2) “I Tested [NUMBER] Years Of [SUBJECT]”
Why It Works
This type of title works because it saves people time. If you’ve spent years figuring something out and are now sharing the results, it’s like offering a shortcut. For example, “I Tested 5 Years Of Skincare Products” promises valuable insights people don’t have to discover on their own. It’s relatable and helpful, especially for audiences looking for tips, advice, or lessons learned the hard way.
3) “I Tried Every [SUBJECT]”
Why It Works
This title is fun and intriguing because it suggests you’ve gone all-in on something. By trying “every” version of something, like coffee flavors or fast-food items, you’ve done the hard work so viewers can find out the best (or worst) options without doing it themselves. It’s great for people who love comparisons, rankings, or quirky challenges that feel exhaustive but entertaining.
4) “The [SUBJECT] Tier List”
Why It Works
Everyone loves rankings, and a tier list makes things simple and fun to follow. It’s satisfying to see things grouped from “the best” to “the worst,” whether it’s movies, snacks, or video games. Titles like this work because they invite opinions—viewers want to agree, disagree, and debate your choices. It also feels approachable, like sitting down with a friend to talk favorites.
5) “[SUBJECT] You Won’t Believe Exist”
Why It Works
This title is perfect for sparking curiosity. The idea that something is so surprising you “won’t believe” it makes people want to find out for themselves. It works especially well for weird, unusual, or unknown topics—things that make people go, “How is that even real?” It’s like uncovering hidden gems or fascinating trivia, which many people love.
6) “Never [ACTION] Do This Instead”
Why It Works
This title grabs attention because it gives advice and warns against making mistakes. Saying “never” feels bold and urgent, and it makes people curious about what they might be doing wrong. The second part, “do this instead,” promises a solution, so viewers feel like they’ll walk away with something useful. It’s great for practical topics like health, money, or productivity.
7) “[LOW PRICE] VS [HIGH PRICE] [SUBJECT]”
Why It Works
People love comparisons, and this title is all about seeing whether a cheaper option can hold up against something expensive. It’s fun and relatable because everyone has wondered if the pricier version of something—like headphones, food, or clothes—is really worth it. Viewers enjoy the mix of entertainment and practical advice about spending their money wisely.
8) “Don’t Buy [SUBJECT] Until [CONDITION]”
Why It Works
This title catches your eye because it feels like a warning. Nobody wants to waste money, so when you say “don’t buy” something yet, it makes people curious to hear why. Adding the condition, like “until you watch this” or “until this sale,” encourages them to click and find out the key detail they need to know before making a decision.
9) “I Built The World’s [SIZE] [SUBJECT]”
Why It Works
Titles like this work because they’re all about extremes. Whether it’s the world’s biggest pizza or smallest car, people are naturally drawn to see something unusual. Plus, the fact that you built it adds a personal, creative touch, which makes viewers want to see the process and the final result. It’s exciting, inspiring, and fun to watch.
10) “[NUMBER] Things I Wish I Knew [SUBJECT]”
Why It Works
This title feels personal and helpful. By sharing what you “wish you knew,” you’re showing viewers that you’ve learned something valuable and want to save them from making the same mistakes. Using a number also makes the video feel organized and easy to follow. It’s perfect for topics like starting a new hobby, job, or life journey.
11) “If You’re [CONDITION], Watch This Video”
Why It Works
This title feels direct and personal because it speaks to a specific group of people. By calling out a condition like “If You’re Struggling With Weight Loss” or “If You’re A Beginner,” it makes the viewer feel like the video was made just for them. This targeted approach grabs attention and encourages viewers to stick around for advice that feels relevant.
12) “If You [ACTION] It, I’ll Pay For It”
Why It Works
This format is exciting because it offers a challenge with a reward. Whether it’s solving a puzzle or completing a task, viewers want to see what happens next and whether someone succeeds. The idea that you’re willing to pay adds stakes and makes the video feel fun and interactive, drawing in audiences who love challenges or social experiments.
13) “I Asked 100 [SUBJECT] [QUESTION]”
Why It Works
This title promises a range of opinions or answers, which feels interesting and credible. By asking a large group of people, like experts or strangers, you’re showing that the video has variety and depth. Whether it’s “I Asked 100 Chefs Their Favorite Dish” or “I Asked 100 People Their Biggest Regret,” viewers are curious to hear diverse perspectives and see the trends or surprises that emerge.
