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Why Short Copy Is Harder Than You Think

  • Writer: Helen Hickman
    Helen Hickman
  • Sep 5, 2024
  • 1 min read

Let’s get one thing straight: writing short copy is a blooming tough gig. Getting your message across in a few words is a whole different beast.


You’re not just writing - you’re distilling.


Why it's so challenging:

  • No room for fluff: every single word has to pull its weight. If it doesn’t, it’s out

  • Instant impact: you’ve got 2-3 seconds to grab attention. If your opening line doesn’t hook, you’re done

  • Laser focus on your audience: you absolutely need to know who you're talking to. There’s no room for guessing - your copy has to speak directly to their pain points.


And here’s the truth: short copy generally takes longer to write than long copy. Why? Because refining your message into just a few powerful words is harder than telling a long story.


Quick tip: the best short copy often comes from trimming long drafts. So start by writing more than you need, then cut the fat, and then cut the fat again.


So next time you’re struggling with short copy, don’t be hard on yourself. Take your time - it’s supposed to be hard!

 
 
 

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