When reading books, especially fiction, do you prefer the chapters to be titled or simply numbered?
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Acrylic (
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June 3rd, 2023
Knowing I’m like years, almost decades even, behind the trend, but finally gave in and started reading Harry Potter yesterday. Not sure why, just suddenly decided to give J. K. Rowling a chance for some reason. A few chapters in, and must admit it’s far better than I expected so far.
Anyway, can’t help but notice that the chapters are titled, not just numbered. I’m sure one reason is because I’m a bit older than her pre-teen to teen target audience, so it’s to help to understand what’s going on better. Maybe, though, I do know some books for a “more mature” audience also has titled chapters. I go back and forth on this, not sure if I prefer titled over numbered, but maybe OK either way as long as the chapter title doesn’t give away too much plot in the story.
Still, am really enjoying this work by the one and only J. K. Rowling. Not sure if I’ll read the many, many sequels, but will definitely finish The Socerers Stone.
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8 Answers
Only if the character perspective is changing, or where there is time-lapse that needs to be addressed.
Immaterial. The chapter title (if any) is just a short label, and often has nothing to do with the plot of that chapter.
Numbers or words – no difference to me.
Non-fiction, however, is a whole different kettle of fish.
I like the chapters to be titled as well as numbered if it is a book I could put down and not pick up again for a few days (and if I don’t have a bookmark). I remember where I was more easily if I have a phrase to remember instead of just a number.
It makes no difference to me.
The only preference I have is if the story jumps to different times in different chapters. I have been reading a good bit of WWII fiction, and it helps when the story goes from 1943 to 1988 to 1943 to 1988, etc.
I’ve never thought about it and, even now after thinking about it, still have no preference.
Doesn’t matter to me. Either or.
A named chapter can help a reader understand what, if any, preconceived intentions the author has for the reader…
Numbers. They always seem just like a good stopping point. Not so much a milestone, or turning point in the story…
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