An email notification pops up as I’m sitting in front of my computer, working and not looking at celebrity news. Curious, I have to see what it is could be a job! It was about something I’d never heard about, UX Copywriting.

Of course, I had to discover what this was and why I should care.

After all, as a writer, I should stay in the know of the new trends. If anything, to build upon my skills.

So, what the heck is UX Copywriting?

What is UX Copywriting

UX copywriting is simply meant to use language to create a conversation between a brand and the user. Thus making branding experiences efficient by making the experience user-friendly.

One thing that is incredibly different about UX copywriting is it doesn’t mainly focus on selling, storytelling, or establishing a brand.

Ultimately, UX copywriting is used to get users where they need to be.

Interestingly enough, UX copywriting isn’t necessary in your face; you may not even realize it is there. The writing is typically focused on the parts of the copy that no one notices, this is often referred to as the “microcopy.”

What does UX Copy include?

Microcopy includes buttons, menu headings, 404 notices, pop-ups, instructions, page headers, and other small touches that will simplify and smooth the experience of the client exploring the website.

Understanding UX Copywriting

When I first heard about UX Copywriting I thought oh that seems simple enough but the more I researched and learned about it, the more I realized it was much more complicated than I first thought.

Some elements included in UX copywriting include:

•  The writing is short copy-approx. 2-3 word phrases
• Universally understood and consistent with the voice of the brand
• UX Copywriting is technical and not creative

How UX copywriting differs from Traditional Copywriting

Copywriting helps businesses, UX writing helps customers

While traditional copywriting centers around business, I should point out that it also keeps the customer in mind.

However, the difference between traditional copywriting and UX is helping users to understand how to navigate the website and know in simple terms/instructions what to do and where to go.

Copywriters aim to CTA where UX helps users complete a task

When you are on a website, such as this one, and you’re reading a blog, you will find there are CTAs (Call to Actions). Either sign up for the newsletter or read this blog post for more information. ETC.

With UX copy you are provided the tools to complete a particular action, such as what page you are looking for, or navigating the menu options.

Copywriting is about persuasion and storytelling

Speaking of CTA’s, the whole purpose of copywriting is the building of a brand and creating brand loyalty.

That is why storytelling is essential to the copy, as is creativity.

With UX writing you are creating an effective button that guides the user to click.

Making the experience of the audience easier to understand and enjoy.

In simple terms, copywriting is for marketing, while UX Writing is for digital product use.

UX copywriting is a skill that is essential for any copywriter to develop, especially if you are helping clients with landing pages or creating their websites.

The two are very different roles that require unique skills and strengths, but they are equally beneficial to the business owner, and the client.

UX copywriting isn’t going anywhere and learning about it only adds to your skill set, making you more desirable as a freelance writer. 

This little-known new trend UX Copywriting is what you should know and obviously experiment with.