Byline vs. Headline: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A byline is the author's name indicating who wrote an article, while a headline is the title or summary at the top of an article.
Key Differences
A byline, typically found at the beginning of an article, identifies the author, whereas a headline, prominently placed at the top, provides a concise summary of the article's content.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Bylines are crucial for attributing authorship, offering credit and accountability, while headlines are designed to capture attention and succinctly convey the main point.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
In journalistic writing, the byline establishes the writer's identity and expertise, contrasting with the headline, which is crafted to engage readers and often uses persuasive language.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Bylines can contribute to a writer's reputation and credibility, differing from headlines which are key in determining a reader's initial interest in the article.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
The byline serves as a point of reference for the reader to understand who is responsible for the content, while the headline functions as a brief and impactful introduction to the article's theme.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Position in Article
Usually at the beginning, under the title
At the very top, as the title of the article
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Contribution to the Article
Adds credibility and accountability
Engages and attracts the reader
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Length and Style
Typically short and factual
Often catchy, persuasive, or informative
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Change in Different Media
Remains consistent across media
May vary to suit different audiences
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Byline and Headline Definitions
Byline
In journalism, a byline identifies the reporter or contributor.
The byline stated 'Reported by John Doe.'
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Headline
A headline is the title or summary atop an article.
Global Warming: An Imminent Threat.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Byline
Byline refers to the credit given to the writer of a piece.
The article's byline read 'Written by Jane Smith.'
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Headline
In newspapers, headlines are often in larger, bold font.
MASSIVE EARTHQUAKE ROCKS THE CITY.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Byline
A byline is the line in an article that names the author.
By John Doe.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Headline
Headlines can include puns or wordplay for effect.
Bakers Rise to the Occasion in National Competition.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Byline
A byline can indicate the author's expertise in the subject matter.
By Jane Smith, Technology Expert.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Headline
The title or heading of an article, especially in a newspaper, usually set in large type.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Byline
A line at the head of a newspaper or magazine article carrying the writer's name.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
A line at the head of a page or passage giving information such as the title, author, and page number.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Byline
(journalism) A line at the head of a newspaper or magazine article carrying the writer's name.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
To present or promote as a headliner
The Palace Theater headlines a magician.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Byline
A byline may include the writer's position or affiliation.
By John Doe, Staff Writer.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Headline
(journalism) The heading or title of a magazine or newspaper article.
The headline on today's newspaper reads "John Doe Wins Wood-Splitting Competition."
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
The line at the top of a page containing the folio or number of the page.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
To present as the main attraction; to have top billing, to be the main attraction.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
A title for an article in a newspaper, sometimes one line, sometimes more, set in larger and bolder type than the body of the article and indicating the subject matter or content of the article.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
A similar title at the top of the newspaper indicating the most important story of the day; also, a title for an illustration or picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Headline
Headlines are designed to capture the reader's attention.
Breaking News: Historic Peace Agreement Signed.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Headline
A headline provides a concise overview of the content.
Stock Market Hits Record Highs Amidst Economic Boom.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do all articles have bylines?
Most articles have bylines, but some, like editorials, may not.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Is the byline important?
Yes, it credits the author and adds accountability.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Can a byline include the author's title?
Yes, bylines can include the author's job title or area of expertise.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
What is a byline?
A byline is the line indicating the author's name in an article.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
What is a headline?
A headline is the title or summary at the top of an article.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
How should a headline be written?
Headlines should be concise, engaging, and relevant to the content.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Where is a byline found?
A byline is usually found at the beginning of an article, under the title.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
What is the purpose of a headline?
A headline's purpose is to summarize the article and attract readers.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Can there be multiple bylines in one article?
Yes, in collaborative pieces, there can be multiple bylines.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Are bylines used in all types of articles?
Most types, but some forms like anonymous editorials or collective works may not use them.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Can headlines be misleading?
Ethically, headlines should accurately reflect the content, but some can be sensational or misleading.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Are bylines a recent development in journalism?
No, bylines have been a part of journalism for a long time.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Do bylines appear in books?
In books, the author's name usually appears on the cover, not as a byline.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Can headlines use humor?
Yes, some headlines use humor or wordplay, especially in lighter news or features.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Do headlines change in different editions?
Yes, headlines may be updated or changed in different editions or platforms.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Do headlines vary in different media?
Yes, headlines may be tailored to fit the style and audience of different media platforms.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Are bylines used in online articles?
Yes, bylines are commonly used in both print and online articles.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Do headlines use complete sentences?
Not always; headlines often use a telegraphic style without complete sentences.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Can headlines contain opinions?
Headlines usually state facts, but opinion article headlines may reflect the writer's viewpoint.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Is the byline or headline more important?
Both are important for different reasons; the byline for credit, the headline for engagement.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 28, 2023
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Hifza Nasir
Shumaila Saeed
