Copy That! #1: Mastering UX Writing & Content Design: Essential Reads, Tips, and Laughs
Fresh UX Content, Hot Takes, and a Dash of Dry Humor
Welcome to Copy That! — the very first installment of our brand-new blog series where UX writing, content design, and a bit of wit collide. We’re here to cut through the fluff and deliver the kind of insights you can actually use. No buzzwords, no "synergizing" — just sharp takes, actionable advice, and maybe a laugh or two. Each post is designed to keep you in the know (and maybe a step ahead) when it comes to the ever-evolving world of content design.
This week, we’re kicking things off with a lineup of reads that’ll make you rethink your "friendly but firm" button copy. We’ve got battles of job titles, principles with receipts, and some chef’s kiss design examples to fuel your next big project. Estimated read times included, because your time is precious and your attention span’s on a Pomodoro clock. Let’s get into it.
📚 1. Content Design vs. UX Writing: The Battle Royale
Where we separate the content "designers" from the "writers" (but like, respectfully)
Read Time: 6 min
Why Read: Your boss just asked if you “can do a little UX writing on the side,” and you’re not about to be misunderstood. This article breaks down the subtle (and not-so-subtle) differences between the two roles and will arm you with a response for the next All Hands Q&A.
Hot Take: If you’re doing both jobs, congrats — you’re now a Content UX Designer Writer Specialist Generalist IV. Get that title update, friend. 📎 Read the Article
📚 2. The 6 Most Important Content Design Principles (With Receipts)
Finally, some design principles that aren’t just “Be Empathetic”
Read Time: 5 min
Why Read: You’ve been meaning to "level up" your content game but you’re still using that same button copy from 2019. This piece gives you six principles you can actually apply right now (like, literally right now).
Hot Take: "User-centered" design is cute, but "get-to-the-point" design is what’s really paying the bills. 📎 Read the Article
📚 3. 10 Content Design Examples That’ll Make You Go "Why Didn’t I Think of That?"
Good content design isn’t magic. It’s just stealing ideas (shh, don’t tell)
Read Time: 7 min
Why Read: You’re tired of "innovating" and just want to see what’s already working. This round-up of real-world examples will have you taking notes faster than an intern with something to prove.
Hot Take: Plagiarism is bad. "Taking inspiration" is a career strategy. 📎 Read the Article
📚 4. 7 UX Writing Guidelines To Save You From a Rewrite (or Your PM’s "Suggestions")
Simple tweaks to keep your PM out of your doc
Read Time: 4 min
Why Read: You’re tired of seeing "Can we make this sound friendlier?" in your comments. These tips will have your copy approved faster than a Slack emoji reaction.
Hot Take: Write like a human, edit like a robot. (Also, don't "add a little whimsy" unless you’re legally required to do so.) 📎 Read the Article
🎉 Final Thoughts
That’s it for this week’s roundup. If you’re feeling inspired, great. If you’re feeling like "wow, I’m doing all of this already," then congrats — you’re ahead of the curve. Just remember, every "little tweak" to a CTA is a win for the user (and for your next performance review).
Catch you next time. Same blog, same questionable puns.
— Copy That!