UX writing (User Experience writing) is about creating words that guide and inform users as they interact with digital products. Whether it’s a website, an app, or an online form, the words your users see can make or break their experience.
Think of UX writing as a tour guide for your digital space. It helps users find what they need, understand what to do next and feel good about their journey. From clear call-to-action buttons to helpful error messages, every word has a purpose: to make the user’s experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
What does a UX writer do?
A UX writer creates text that is clear, concise, and perfectly aligned with the user’s needs—words that feel natural and intuitive. But UX writing goes beyond creating copy. UX writers work closely with UX designers, taking a holistic view of the user experience to ensure that every interaction—from a simple button to a complex form—fits perfectly into the overall flow and design of a project.
When users struggle to navigate a site or app, it often signals a need for refined UX writing and design. By applying design-thinking skills, UX writers can anticipate user needs and shape content that guides users smoothly through each step. (For more on why UX writers benefit from design-thinking skills, see my article here.)
How to make your UX writing concise and clear
Imagine an error message like “Error 404: Page Not Found.” It’s confusing and leaves users wondering what to do next. Changing this to “Page not found. Check the URL or go to the homepage” is clear and actionable, helping users easily take the next step.
Here are some other common fixes that can greatly improve flow:
- Simplify terms: Change “Proceed” to “Next.”
- Be direct: Replace “Enter Details” with “Add Your Name.”
- Offer solutions: Instead of “Invalid Input,” use “Try Again.”
These small changes help users feel understood and offer a helping hand.
Adding personality to UX writing
Depending on your business, UX copy doesn’t always have to be serious. It can be fun and playful—as long as it aligns with your brand’s tone of voice. A touch of humor or warmth can make interactions more memorable. For example, instead of a standard error message like “Something went wrong,” try “Uh-oh, it looks like a hiccup! Let’s try that again.” Or, for a loading screen, swap “Loading…” with “Just a moment, we’re making magic happen!” These small touches add personality and keep users engaged.
Why invest in UX writing?
Good UX copy builds trust. The friendly voice reassures users when they’re stuck and celebrates with them when they reach a goal. At all costs, we want to avoid a frustrating experience and instead make users think, “That was easy!”
Investing in UX writing means creating a digital space where users feel guided and appreciated, leading to happier customers and better business outcomes.
Let’s improve your user experience together
If you want to make your digital product more user-friendly, let’s chat about how effective UX writing can transform how your customers interact with your brand. Get in touch today!