What does a headline do? Headlines are designed to grab a reader's attention and hook them into the story. The job of a headline is to ultimately “tell and sell” so it must tell the reader enough to attract their attention but leave them wanting to know more so they read the full story.

What is the function of a headline?

A headline's purpose is to quickly and briefly draw attention to the story. It is generally written by a copy editor, but may also be written by the writer, the page layout designer, or other editors.

What is the purpose of headline in a newspaper?

The main functions of headlines are not mutually exclusive. Many headlines attempt to summarize, generate interest, satisfy immediacy needs, and direct attention. As the first taste of a news story, the headline is a first impression and a critical barometer for news readers on the information that is to follow.