Web Copywriting that Works!

Recently, I was introduced to Udemy. I highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t already. Udemy features a number of online courses on various subjects. This month I set a goal for myself to improve my copywriting skills for the web. This is a skill that is important for anyone that has an online presence.
 
I chose to take class called Web Copywriting that Works. In my opinion it is good for any skill level. For beginners you will find a plethora of useful information. For those with experience with copywriting for the web, it will be a good refresher and offers useful tips that you may not have been aware of.
 
I wanted to share with you a few of my favourite take-aways from the course in hopes that you will also benefit and become better writers.
 

The Most Important Information Should be Above the Page Fold

Always place the most important content above the fold of the page. This is the section of the website before the reader has to scroll. This is the area of the page that will capture the reader’s attention so use it wisely.
 

One Idea Per Paragraph

Separate your content into multiple paragraphs, including only one idea per paragraph. This makes it easier for the reader to browse through the content and digest the information that is useful to them.
 

Say What You Need to Say in the Fewest Words Possible

Don’t be too wordy! Many people believe that it’s important to go into great detail, but it’s more important to say what you need to say without making things complicated. Make it as easy as possible for readers to digest the information you are providing them.
 

Think About the Hierarchy of Your Content

Always put the most important information at the top of the page. You want to be able to capture your audience’s attention. Also keep in mind that most people won’t read everything on the page.
 

You are Writing for Humans AND Software

It’s important to have a keyword strategy in place before you dive into copywriting. This will help you to develop content moving forward. Remember, you are writing for humans AND software. This means that you need to write in a way that your audience can relate, but also in a way that will improve your SEO.
 

Great Content Builds Backlinks

Put effort into what you are writing because it is a reflection of your business and also because others are more likely to share your content or link back to your site. This not only helps to improve your SEO ranking, but allows potential customers to become aware of you.
 

Link the Right Words

When linking to other web pages within your content it is suggested that 7-12 words are included within the hyperlink so that it is evident what the reader is clicking through to. It is suggested that you avoid linking to words that just say here. For example, “View our most recent blog post here.” This was a tactic used when the web was first introduced, but hyperlinks have become intuitive.
 
I highly recommend the Web Copywriting that Works course to anyone who is new to the web or even those looking to brush up on his/her copywriting skills.
 
You can also download our white paper: An Introduction to Copywriting for free useful tips.
 

Web Copywriting that Works!