UX Writing: Strengthen User Experience with Words
Every text you see when opening an app — button labels, error messages, empty state text, onboarding steps — was written by someone. These texts directly affect user experience. UX Writing is user-focused copywriting for digital products.
What Is UX Writing?
UX Writing is the practice of designing all text (microcopy) in digital products to improve user experience. Every word matters, every sentence serves a purpose.
Why UX Writing Matters
- Speeds up user decision-making
- Reduces errors
- Builds trust
- Reflects brand voice
- Increases conversion rates
- Reduces support tickets
UX Writing Principles
1. Clear
Users should immediately understand what to do.
| Bad | Good | |-----|------| | "Operation could not be performed" | "Wrong password. Try again." | | "Error 404" | "This page no longer exists" | | "Could not send" | "Check your internet and try again" |
2. Concise
Every word must be earned.
| Bad | Good | |-----|------| | "Operation completed successfully" | "Saved!" | | "Please fill out the form below" | "Enter your info" | | "Are you sure you want to delete your account? This action cannot be undone." | "Delete your account? This cannot be undone." |
3. Useful
Tell users what to do next.
| Bad | Good | |-----|------| | "Invalid email" | "Enter an email like name@company.com" | | "Password not suitable" | "At least 8 characters, 1 uppercase, and 1 number" |
4. Human
Talk like a person, not a robot.
| Bad | Good | |-----|------| | "User authentication failed" | "Could not log in. Forgot your password?" | | "Data retrieval failed" | "Something went wrong. Please try again." |
UX Writing Areas
Button Text
- Use action verbs: "Sign Up", "Go to Checkout", "Download"
- Avoid ambiguity: "Send Message" instead of "Submit"
- Set expectations: "Start Your 30-Day Free Trial"
Error Messages
- Explain what happened
- Explain why it happened
- Show how to fix it
Empty States
- Guide first-time users
- Provide motivation
- Show the first step
- Example: "No projects yet. Click to create your first one."
Onboarding
- Step-by-step guidance
- Progress indicator
- Skip option
- One piece of info per step
Form Design
- Clear labels
- Helper text (placeholder and hints)
- Inline validation messages
- Success message
UX Writing Checklist
Ask for every text:
- Can users understand this?
- Can I write it shorter?
- Does it tell users what to do?
- Does it match the brand voice?
- Is the tone right? (friendly, professional, serious)
UX Writing Tools
| Tool | Use | |------|-----| | Hemingway Editor | Readability check | | Grammarly | Grammar check | | Figma/Sketch | Text in designs | | Google Docs | Collaboration | | Notion | Content guides |
Conclusion
UX Writing is as important as visual design. The right text improves user experience, increases conversion rates, and reduces support tickets. Every word matters as much as every pixel.
For UX writing and user experience consulting, get in touch: info@cagribilgehan.com. Check out my projects: cagribilgehan.com