How to Customize the Back-Half of a Short URL?
Default short URLs are a random string of characters (e.g., ter.li/1gz9ex), which are hard to remember and don't provide any context about the link's destination. By customizing the "back-half," you can create branded, memorable, and readable links (e.g., ter.li/summer-sale) that build trust and improve click-through rates.
This article will show you two quick methods for customizing your short URLs.
Important Note: This feature is available only for URLs shortened with the built-in Terminus.app shortener (e.g., ter.li). It is not possible to customize the back-half for third-party shorteners connected to your account, such as Bitly.
Method 1: Quick Edit from the URL List
This is the fastest way to customize a short URL directly from the main URLs dashboard.
- Navigate to the URLs page from the main menu.
- Locate the URL you wish to customize in the list.
- Click the edit icon (pencil) next to the Short URL you want to change.
- This will open the Short URL editor panel.
- Type your desired custom keyword for the back-half in the Short Url text field.
Example: Change ter.li/9sc83k to ter.li/summer-jeans-sale
- Click the Save button to confirm your change.
Method 2: Customize While Creating or Editing a URL
You can also set a custom back-half when you are creating a new URL or editing the full properties of an existing one.
- On the URLs page, either click Create New URL or click the edit icon next to the main Destination URL you want to modify.
- This will open the full URL editor panel.
- Scroll down to the Short URL field.
- Type your custom keyword into the back-half portion of the URL.
- Click the main Save button at the bottom of the panel to apply your changes.
Best Practices for Custom URLs
- Be Unique: Every custom back-half must be unique for your short domain. If a keyword is already in use, the system will prompt you to choose another.
- Use Dashes: For multi-word keywords, use dashes (-) instead of spaces or underscores. For example, black-friday-deal is better than blackfridaydeal.
- Keep it Simple: The best custom URLs are short, descriptive, and easy to type. This makes them ideal for sharing on social media, in print, or verbally.
Customizing your short URLs is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your branding and make your links more appealing to your audience.