Microcopy a UX writing are concepts that have become key in the field of digital products and web design in recent years. Both focus on the texts that users read when interacting with a website, application or software. Although these are short texts, their impact on user experience (UX) is huge.
What is microcopy
Microcopy are short texts in the interface that help users to navigate and make the right decisions. Typically these are:
- text on the buttons (e.g. "Send", "Continue"),
- labels and help for forms,
- error messages,
- confirmation message ("Your account has been successfully created"),
- small tips and hints in the apps.
The power of microcopy is that it eases the user's journey and removes unnecessary obstacles. When a microcopy is written wrong, the user is confused, uncertain, or may make a mistake.
What is UX writing
UX writing is a broader discipline that encompasses the design of all text in digital products. While microcopy addresses individual elements, UX writing looks at the overall communication strategy within the user experience. The UX writer tries to make the entire product consistent, understandable and friendly.
UX writing includes:
- overall naming of sections and functions,
- the tone and style of brand communication in the app,
- navigation elements (menus, links),
- information texts and onboarding,
- notifications and system messages.
The difference between microcopy and UX writing
- Microcopy = small, specific texts that facilitate individual interaction.
- UX writing = a complex discipline that addresses how the entire product "talks" to its users.
Microcopy is therefore part of UX writing. If we want to have a well-designed app or website, both approaches must work together.
Why microcopy and UX writing matters
- Increase usability - the user doesn't have to think about what to do.
- They build trust - clear and friendly communication increases the feeling of security.
- Reduce error rates - good error messages and hints prevent frustration.
- Support conversions - a properly formulated button or form can substantially increase the number of completed actions.
Examples of good microcopy
- Error message: instead of "Error 404", "Page could not be found. Please try another link."
- Button: instead of "Send", I prefer "Create account".
- Form: instead of "Enter your password" prefer "Your password must be at least 8 characters".
How it differs from copywriting
Copywriting has a different goal than microcopy or UX writing. While microcopy and UX writing focus on improving usability and guiding the user through the product, copywriting focuses mainly on marketing and persuasion. It is typically used in advertisements, emails, sales texts or landing pages.
| Area | Microcopy and UX writing | Copywriting |
|---|---|---|
| Primary objective | Facilitate orientation, improve user experience | Convince, sell, motivate to action |
| Form of texts | Short texts in the interface (buttons, messages, labels) | Longer texts (articles, advertising slogans, campaigns) |
| Location | Applications, websites, software environment | Advertisements, websites, newsletters |
| Communication style | Clear, simple, practical | Creative, emotional, sales |
Summary
Microcopy and UX writing are key disciplines of modern digital design. Even the smallest texts can significantly influence how the user perceives the product, how he or she navigates it and whether he or she decides to take the desired action. Those who underestimate microcopy and UX writing risk confused users and lower conversions.
