5 tips for effective UX Writing
In the world of design, the importance of writing as a valuable skill is gaining recognition. John Maeda, in his influential Design in Tech 2017 report, went beyond the traditional focus on coding and identified writing as another “unicorn skill” for designers. This revelation doesn’t surprise anyone involved in web, product, or digital design, as many UX agencies or designers have long understood the significance of incorporating content into their creative process. The parallels between UX design and writing have been widely acknowledged, leading to insightful articles discussing the benefits of writing for designers. As the industry continues to appreciate the value of writing in design, this article aims to present a selection of my favorite writing tips with easy-to-grasp examples. So, let’s dig in!
What is UX writing?
Creating textual content or copy for digital products is loosely defined as UX writing. It is a key means of user communication and plays a big role in users’ interaction with products. In essence, while pixels convey messages to users in UX design, words act as eloquent storytellers, skillfully guiding users in their journey of using and engaging with the product. Well-written UX copy at different user touchpoints can make digital products easy to navigate and use.
How to get better at UX writing?
Now that you’re ready to dive in and become an efficient UX writer, the following tips can serve as your guiding principles, conveniently summarized as the 5 Cs, as depicted in the image below. These tips are designed to make your journey smoother and more effective.
- CLEARly convey the message
Similar to exceptional design, outstanding writing possesses the power of invisibility. But why is this invisibility desirable? When the text is crystal clear and intuitively understandable, it transforms the user’s entire journey into a seamless and effortless experience. This avoids unnecessary distractions. Therefore, an effective UX copy prioritizes clarity above everything else. Any lack of clarity in the content results in the loss of potential customers. On the other hand, when the text is clear, it reassures users that they are on the right path, fostering a sense of trust and confidence.
Look at the image of the sign-in button below. The left UI copy lacks clarity, as it employs words such as “registrate” instead of the familiar “sign-in” to communicate its purpose to users.
2. Be CONCISE
Ensure that your UX copy is concise and succinct. Recognize that users are often on a mission, seeking to accomplish tasks swiftly and effortlessly, with minimal mental effort. Therefore, strive to keep your copy brief, the shorter the better! Your users will appreciate your consideration.
In the image below, observe how the screen on the left side has an excessive word count. Remember that users are time-constrained, and bombarding them with excessive text will only hinder effective communication. Make the copy short as on the right UI and you have the users onboard!
3. CONSTRUCTIVE messaging
Have a clear understanding of the purpose of your writing and the specific message you aim to convey — these two objectives should guide your selection of UX copy. Remember, if the message does not offer value or usefulness to users, it becomes mere fluff.
The screen below effectively informs users about subsequent steps and available options using minimal words. It demonstrates how concise and informative copy can be delivered efficiently.
4. Make it CONVERSATIONAL
Since humans are the ones who will interact with the product, it is natural for them to prefer a conversational and friendly tone. To ensure your UX copy resonates with users, try reading it aloud. If it sounds robotic, it’s a clear indication that editing is necessary. On the other hand, if the copy possesses a human touch, you can rest assured that you’re heading in the right direction.
Let’s consider the image provided below as an example. The user is encountering an unpleasant experience. Now, the question arises: how can we effectively convey this message? One approach is to adopt a casual and friendly tone, which can help uplift the mood of the users and create a more positive experience. By using a tone that is approachable and light-hearted, we can enhance user engagement and provide users with a more enjoyable interaction.
5. Maintain CONSISTENCY
Consistency in UX writing refers to maintaining uniformity and coherence in the language, tone, and style of written content across different touch points within a user interface. It involves using consistent terminology, phrasing, and messaging throughout the product, ensuring a cohesive and seamless user experience. Consistency in UX writing not only helps users understand and navigate the interface more easily but also strengthens the brand identity and establishes a sense of trust and familiarity.
Look at the image below. The left interface shows a lack of consistency by using the words “reserve” and “book” interchangeably for the same action. This inconsistency can lead to confusion and uncertainty among users, potentially hindering their ability to understand and navigate the system smoothly.
UX writing: Designing conversation
UX writing stands as a powerful and essential mode of communication in an era where most processes are automatized and streamlined. It places humans at the center and greatly enhances the portrayal of our services. The tips outlined in this article serve as a valuable addition to your arsenal of UX writing techniques, aimed at improving the overall user experience.
The key objective is to truly understand the needs and requirements of the users. From there, strive to be straightforward, concise, captivating, and friendly in your writing. Over time, through observation and user feedback, you will gain valuable insights into what truly resonates with your audience and effectively helps in their user flow and journey map. This continuous learning process will allow you to refine your approach and create a remarkable user experience.
