7 Ways to Improve Your UI Writing

When people use an app or visit a website, they are often intending to accomplish some goals. It could be either to download a resource, sign up for a gift, learn some information or make a purchase.

Your goal with every design element on the page should be to gently guide the user to take the desired action. In addition to the visual cues on the page, it is also a UX best practice to write copies that tell the user the next action to take.

Here’s where a concise, clear writing comes in. The problem however is that most designers don’t consider themselves as writers. To change this or at least, improve your UI writing, here are 7 tips to keep in mind when writing.

1. Write in a clear and concise manner

   Clarity is key to getting users take the desired action. You don’t want users to get confused on what they are required to do.

   Be sure to use only words necessary without losing the meaning to make your points. Each word on the web page should earn their place.

   Don’t: You must sign up before you can download the file
   Do: Sign up to download the file

 

2. Double check for errors

   Misspellings and grammatical errors are probably one of UI writers’ worst nightmares. Unfortunately, there’s no hiding from incorrectly spelled words since most UI copies are short.

   Proofread your writing at least twice before handing it in. First, edit the text immediately after writing to catch incorrectly spelled words. Then after one or two hours go back to it again, this time check for flow and logic and make corrections where necessary. You may even find yourself rewriting whole sections and paragraphs.

   If, however, you often find it difficult to catch your own mistakes, you may want to consider asking a colleague to proofread the copy; or use the several cheap essay writing services and tools available to write and edit your copies.

 

3. Avoid blocks of text

   Blocks of text are hard to read. They are distracting and could make users abandon your site.

   People instinctively turn away from too much reading especially on the web. Users scan web pages for information, aim to make the copy as scannable as possible.

   Use short sentences and paragraphs to break up your copy. And include images and graphics were possible to illustrate your point. Remember, an image is better than a thousand words.

 

4. Be consistent

   Use consistent words throughout your copy. Using the same words ensure users are not confused and are able to understand you better. Avoid using words of similar meaning in the same copy.

   Suppose you have used “Schedule” earlier in the copy to mean allocating time for a meeting, don’t later in the same copy use “Book” to describe the same event.

   Another inconsistency you should look out for is using both “log in” and “sign in” in the same copy to request a user to enter their account information.

 

5. Avoid technical terms

   While it may be tempting to want to use technical terms in your copy, remember you are writing for the wider public. And, not all users are going to understand the terms.

   Technical terms can be frustrating for users and hamper their experience using your app. So, be sure to use simple, everyday words anyone can understand. The rule of thumb, is aim to write at the 5-grade level.

 

6. Write in the active voice

   One trick to write concise UI copies is to use active voice in your writing. The active voice describes the action of the subject. It is direct, punchy and the user is in no doubt about what to do next.

   Compare these two sentences:
   Don’t: The arrow below should be clicked to read the next chapter
   Do: Click the arrow below to read the next chapter

 

7. Avoid generic placeholders

   Using generic placeholders like ‘lorem ipsum’ can be confusing as it does not reinforce the action you want users to take.

   Instead of ‘lorem ipsum’ use actual words that describe what the user should do next.

   For example, if you want a user to fill a form, use “Your name” and your@email.com as placeholders.

 
In conclusion
The copy on your webpage and app plays an important role in how a user feels about using your solution. The words can help build trust, enhance their experience and ultimately turn them into customers. Or, it could make them not return again or worst, uninstall your app.

Your responsibility as a designer and UI writer is to create an intuitive, enjoyable and immersive experience for users. Hopefully, these 7 tips will help you write great UI copies.