Technical Writing vs. UX Writing vs. Content Writing
Writing for the web comes in different forms, with different purposes and goals. In this article, we’ll go over Technical Writing, UX Writing, and Content Writing. Each writing style has a specific objective in conveying information for their users.
Technical Writing
Technical writing is defined as “… a type of writing where the author is writing about a particular subject that requires direction, instruction, or explanation.” Technical writing takes specialized topics and presents that information in a way that is easy to understand. It is a style of writing used for manuals, services, documentation, and even processes. To facilitate understanding of the subject matter, technical writing must be concise and accurate.
RTM: Why is Technical Writing Important?
Technical writing provides clarity. Users rely on technical writing and communication for direction on a product or process. Whether comprehensive reference or step-by-step instruction, clear explanations would help ensure the product is used as intended, anticipate the user’s needs, and help build a relationship between user and product.
UX Writing
Also known as micro copy, UX writing is copy for any interface that the user sees and interacts with. In this UX Booth article, it is described as “…the act of writing copy for user-facing touchpoints.” This may include pop-up windows, inline error messages, tool tips, 404 error messages, call to action messages, etc. As with its namesake, it is a style of writing that becomes part of the user experience. UX writing is “content embedded in products.” To help build the relationship with the user and company, the tone can be casual and narrative where appropriate.
Talk to Me: Why is UX Writing important?
Despite being the newest of the bunch, UX writing can be a part of enhancing the user experience connecting the product to customer. This writing style uses choice words to seamlessly bring clarity to the user at various parts of the interface and support the company’s voice.
Content Writing
Content Writing is, well, content about the company or product, typically for the web. This can include sales copy, blog content, social media content, and articles. Content writing leans more towards marketing, persuading the user on why the company or product would be useful and appealing.
Selling it: Why is Content Writing Important?
Content Writing helps build the company’s online presence and digital marketing strategy. This style of writing provides relevant information for the user, builds brand identity, and helps with SEO (or “Search Engine Optimization”). As a result, content writing takes into consideration keywords and phrases that are commonly used by people looking up relevant services or products online. That is, if someone were to search online using a certain phrase (Example: “Best places to eat in [your local city]”), then content writing would try to include that phrase into their text (Example: “Here are some of the best places to eat in [your local city]”).
Conclusion
Each writing style has a goal of connecting the user to the product, but in different ways. Online marketing and user experience are not just limited to specific writing styles. Content writing can be used to improve user relationship and trust, introduce the brand voice and identity, use SEO for improved online presence, and bring information to draw in the user. UX Writing can support the brand’s voice throughout the user’s interaction with the product, inform the user and continue to build trust. Technical Writing can also build user trust with good documentation, helping the user understand the product and reach their goals.
Different forms of writing on the web have different objectives. Technical Writing provides accurate instructions to help the user understand the product. UX Writing uses concise messaging for the user and help build the company tone. Content Writing involves marketing to persuade the user about the company and product. With the right direction, all three writing styles can work together cohesively to their strengths.
