EMAIL PREVIEWS
6 email preheader examples you can use
A preheader is the short preview line in an inbox. Use it to add a fact the subject leaves out. Put that fact first so it is less likely to get cut off.
In this guide
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See your two inbox lines together
The subject is the first line in the inbox. Preview text adds a little more below it. Write both lines and see them together.
Solara is an example store.
Compare with the starting example
Start with three small steps for your daily routine.
This is a rough preview. Email apps, screens and text sizes show different amounts. Send yourself a test email to check the real view.
What if both lines say the same thing?
Subject: “Your welcome code is here.” Preview: “Here is your welcome code.” That says the same thing twice.
Keep the subject. Try “Use WELCOME10 on your first order” for the preview. Now the reader sees the code and who can use it. This deal is made up. Use your own code and rules.
Shopify says to write the email first. Then let the subject and preview add to each other. Find one useful fact in your draft to use here.
Can the subject be fun?
Yes. Pair it with a clear preview. Try “A brighter kind of desk day” with “Meet the new Pocket Notebook colors.”
You can swap their jobs: “New Pocket Notebook colors” with “Find one for your desk.” One pair starts with a mood. The other starts with the news.
A code or key update may need the plain line first. A product launch gives you more room to play. Read the pair as if you have never seen this store.
How long should the preview be?
No one length fits every inbox. Mailchimp says most email apps limit the preview they show. Put the key fact first.
Cut “We wanted to let you know that the Field Pack is back in olive.” Try “The olive Field Pack is back.” Add more only if it helps.
Try the narrow inbox view above. Does the start still make sense when the end is cut off? Send a test to check your own inbox too.
Source: Mailchimp: where preview text comes from and how to write it
Why does it show “View in browser”?
Your preview field may be blank. Mailchimp says an inbox can take words from the start of the email instead. That may be a link you did not mean to show.
Fill in your email app’s preview field. Send yourself a test. Read the sender, subject and preview before you open it.
Then check what you promised. If the preview says “See the Mini Sling size,” the email or linked page must show it.
Source: Mailchimp: where preview text comes from and how to write it
Examples to make your own
Copy an example, then add your products, links and store name.
01 · Welcome after a promised offer
SubjectYour welcome code is here
Preview textUse WELCOME10 on your first order.
Thanks for joining Field Notes Studio. Here is the welcome offer you signed up for, with the eligible products and terms below.
Button textExplore the collection
The preview gives the code and who can use it. Replace this example offer with one your store has set up.
02 · A cart reminder
SubjectThe tote you had your eye on
Preview textTake another look at the Everyday Tote.
A little reminder of the Everyday Tote you selected. See the details again whenever you are ready.
Button textSee the Everyday Tote
The subject recalls what they viewed. The preview adds the item’s name; the button gives them a way back.
03 · A real restock
SubjectOlive is back
Preview textThe Field Pack is available in olive again.
The olive Field Pack is back in the collection. Take a look at the current options on the product page.
Button textSee the olive Field Pack
A writing example for a store with a real stock alert. The short subject works because the preview names the item.
04 · Help after a purchase
SubjectKeep your linen looking good
Preview textA quick care guide for your Weekend Shirt.
Your shirt’s care instructions, in one place. Check the label on your garment and use the guide for a closer explanation.
Button textRead the care guide
Use the item’s real care steps. Give the promised help before adding more items to buy.
05 · A collection launch
SubjectA brighter kind of desk day
Preview textMeet the new notebook colors.
The Pocket Notebook has a fresh set of colors. Take a closer look and find the one that belongs on your desk.
Button textSee the new colors
The subject adds some fun. The preview tells people what is new. Use it for a real launch.
06 · Product education
SubjectPocket-sized. What fits?
Preview textSee the Mini Sling dimensions and layout.
A closer look at the Mini Sling, including the dimensions and pockets. Compare it with what you carry before choosing.
Button textExplore the Mini Sling
The linked page needs to show these details. Check which items fit before naming a phone or accessory.