If you’d like to learn how to write copy that sells, then this post is for you. Here’s why:
When you hear the phrase “copy that sells,” you might picture a slick salesperson or one of those over-the-top infomercials.
But writing copy that sells doesn’t have to feel like that. It’s all about connecting with your audience in a way that makes them say, “Yes! That’s exactly what I need!”
So, buckle up because I’m about to show you 101 ways to write copy that sells—without feeling like you’re selling your soul. Trust me, you’re going to love it.
How to Write Copy That Sells (101 Secrets)
Here we go; 101 ways to write copy that sells
1. Know Your Audience (Really Well)
The first step to writing copy that sells? Know your audience inside and out. You need to understand their problems, desires, and motivations. This will help you speak their language and hit the right emotional triggers.
- Research their pain points
- Identify what solutions they’re searching for
- Speak directly to their needs
If you understand your audience, your copy will practically write itself.
Learn how to research your target audience.
2. Write Conversationally
People buy from people, not faceless brands. So, write like you talk! This is one of the most important ways to write copy that sells—it helps your reader feel like they’re having a conversation with a friend, not a company.
- Use contractions (I’m, you’re, we’re)
- Keep it casual and friendly
- Avoid jargon and corporate-speak
Learn how to write conversational copy here.
3. Highlight the Benefits, Not Just the Features
It’s easy to fall into the trap of listing features. But features don’t sell. Benefits sell. You need to show how your product or service will improve your customer’s life.
For example, instead of saying, “This camera has 20 megapixels,” say, “Capture every moment in stunning detail with crisp, high-definition photos.”
Discover how to turn features into benefits.
4. Use Power Words
Power words trigger emotions and get people to take action. Words like “you,” “free,” “now,” “instant,” and “exclusive” are known to boost conversion rates.
- “Unlock exclusive access”
- “Get results fast”
- “Transform your life today”
Sprinkle these throughout your copy to give it a little extra oomph.
Here are over 250 power words to help you write better copy.
5. Keep It Simple
The simpler your copy, the easier it is to read—and the more likely people are to keep reading. Write short sentences and paragraphs. Break up your text so it’s not overwhelming.
Think of it this way: If your 12-year-old cousin can understand your copy, you’re doing it right.
6. Use Stories to Connect
Stories sell because they create an emotional connection. Share real-life examples or personal experiences to make your copy relatable and memorable.
For example, I once worked with a client who struggled to get people to buy their eco-friendly products. We rewrote their copy to include stories about real customers who were making a positive environmental impact, and their sales skyrocketed!
Learn how to use storytelling in your copy.
7. Create Urgency
Urgency is one of the most powerful tools in copywriting. If people feel like they need to act now, they’re more likely to make a purchase. Phrases like “limited time offer” or “only 3 spots left” create a sense of urgency.
- “Get 20% off for today only!”
- “This offer ends at midnight—don’t miss out!”
Learn how to use urgency to boost sales.
8. Use Social Proof
People are more likely to buy something if they see that others have already bought it. Social proof includes customer testimonials, reviews, case studies, or any data showing that your product works.
- “Over 1,000 happy customers can’t be wrong!”
- “Join our community of satisfied clients”
Learn how to use social proof to boost sales.
9. Focus on Clarity, Not Cleverness
It’s tempting to be clever with your copy, but clarity always wins. If your readers don’t understand what you’re offering, they’re not going to buy.
Say what you mean in the simplest way possible.
10. Ask Questions to Engage the Reader
Questions are a great way to pull readers in and make them think. For example:
- “Do you want to double your sales in 30 days?”
- “What if I told you there’s an easier way to achieve your goals?”
When you ask a question, it invites the reader to keep reading for the answer.
11. Use Numbers and Data
People love numbers. They make your copy feel more credible and specific. For example:
- “Increase your productivity by 50% in just 7 days.”
- “Our software is used by over 20,000 businesses.”
12. Create a Clear Call to Action
Don’t just assume your reader knows what to do next—tell them. Whether it’s clicking a button, signing up for a newsletter, or buying a product, your call to action should be clear, concise, and compelling.
- “Sign up today!”
- “Get started now!”
Learn how to write an effective call to action.
13. Avoid Fluff
Cut the fluff. Every word should have a purpose. If it doesn’t move your reader closer to taking action, it doesn’t belong.
14. Be Consistent with Your Brand Voice
Your brand’s voice should be consistent across all your copy. Whether you’re quirky, professional, or casual, stick to the same tone so your audience knows what to expect.
Click here to learn the importance of brand voice in copywriting.
15. Address Objections
Think about the reasons someone might hesitate to buy your product or service, and address those objections in your copy. This could be anything from price to trust issues.
- “Worried about cost? Our flexible payment plans make it affordable for everyone.”
- “Not sure if it’s right for you? Try it risk-free for 30 days.”
Learn how to address customer objections before they even surface.
16. Use Headings and Subheadings to Break Up Text
Headings and subheadings make your copy easier to scan, helping readers quickly find the information they care about. This also keeps your content organized and visually appealing, which is important for holding attention.
17. Appeal to Emotions Like Fear, Love, and Ambition
People often buy based on emotion and justify with logic. For example, selling insurance? Appeal to their desire for security (fear of the unknown). Selling a course? Appeal to their ambition for self-improvement.
Learn how to write emotional copy.
18. Add Testimonials for Credibility
Showcasing what others say about your product or service builds trust. It’s a form of social proof, and people are more likely to buy something if they see that others have had a positive experience.
Learn how to use testimonials to improve sales.
19. Offer a Money-Back Guarantee
By reducing the risk for your customer, you make the buying decision easier. A money-back guarantee eliminates the “what if it doesn’t work?” hesitation and boosts conversions.
Learn how to improve sales using powerful guarantees.
20. Write a Compelling Value Proposition
Your value proposition is the promise of value your product delivers. It should be clear and compelling, explaining why your product is better than alternatives and how it solves the customer’s problem.
Learn how to create a unique value proposition.
21. Use Scarcity Tactics (Limited Stock, Countdown Timers)
Creating a sense of scarcity makes people feel like they might miss out on something valuable. It encourages them to act quickly rather than delaying their decision.
Learn how to use scarcity to improve sales.
22. Personalize the Copy for Your Audience
When you personalize your copy, it feels like you’re speaking directly to the reader. Using their name, mentioning their specific needs, or tailoring the message based on past behaviors increases engagement.
23. Create a Sense of Exclusivity
Everyone wants to be part of something special. Phrases like “members-only,” “invite-only,” or “exclusive access” make people feel like they’re getting something others can’t, driving them to act.
Learn how to use exclusivity to boost profits.
24. Add Images & Videos to Improve Your Message
Images, infographics, and videos can enhance your copy by illustrating key points, breaking up the text, and making your message more digestible.
25. Make Your CTA Stand Out with Contrasting Colors
A call-to-action (CTA) button should be bold and easy to find. Contrasting colors help it pop from the rest of the page and grab attention, encouraging users to click.
26. Include Relevant Statistics
Statistics make your copy feel more credible and concrete. Instead of saying “This works for everyone,” say “90% of our customers saw results in 30 days.”
27. Create a Clear Buyer Persona
When you know who you’re writing for, your copy becomes laser-focused. A buyer persona represents your ideal customer, detailing their demographics, interests, pain points, and goals.
Learn how to create a buyer persona or customer avatar.
28. Write Like You’re Talking to One Person
Instead of writing for a broad audience, craft your copy like you’re talking to one specific person. This makes the message feel more personal and engaging.
29. Keep It Short and to the Point
People have short attention spans. Eliminate fluff and get straight to the benefits. Short, concise sentences and paragraphs keep readers moving through your copy.
30. Focus on Solutions, Not Problems
While it’s important to acknowledge your audience’s pain points, spend most of your time highlighting the solution your product or service provides.
31. Make It Scannable with Bullet Points
People don’t always read every word. Bullet points break up your copy and make key benefits or features easy to scan, allowing readers to find what’s important to them quickly.
32. Use Action-Oriented Language
Your copy should prompt the reader to take action. Use verbs like “buy,” “get,” “discover,” or “sign up” to encourage them to move forward with a purchase or inquiry.
33. Make Your Offer Irresistible
Sweeten the deal by adding bonuses, discounts, or free trials. These extra perks make your offer feel like a no-brainer.
Learn how to create an irresistible offer.
34. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Headline
Your headline is the first thing people see, so it needs to hook them in. Use bold statements, questions, or numbers to capture attention right away.
Learn how to write attention-grabbing headlines.
35. Use Humor to Connect
People like to laugh, and humor can make your brand more relatable. Just be sure it fits with your audience and message, and doesn’t distract from your overall goal.
Learn how to use humor in your copywriting.
36. Make It About the Customer, Not You
Shift the focus from “We offer” to “You’ll get.” Your audience doesn’t care about your company—they care about how your product or service benefits them.
37. Offer a Free Trial or Sample
A free trial or sample lets customers experience your product without commitment. It lowers the barrier to entry and increases the likelihood of a purchase once they’ve tried it.
38. Highlight What Makes You Different
Your unique selling proposition (USP) should be front and center. Whether it’s better pricing, faster delivery, or top-notch customer service, clearly explain why people should choose you over the competition.
Learn how to create a unique selling proposition.
39. Focus on the End Result
Don’t just tell people what they’ll get—show them what their life will look like after using your product. Paint a picture of the transformation they can expect.
40. Use Metaphors and Analogies to Simplify Complex Ideas
If your product or service is complex, simplify it by using metaphors or analogies. For example, “Our software is like a personal assistant for your business.”
Learn how to use metaphors and analogies to improve sales.
41. Lead with a Strong Hook
The first sentence should grab attention and make readers want to know more. Ask a question, share an intriguing fact, or make a bold claim.
Learn how to write hooks that work.
42. Avoid Passive Voice
Active voice is more engaging and direct. Instead of “The report was written by the team,” say “The team wrote the report.”
43. Use FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
Fear of missing out (FOMO) drives people to take action quickly. Highlight limited-time offers, exclusive deals, or fast-approaching deadlines to create a sense of urgency.
Learn how to use FOMO to boost sales.
44. Speak to Your Audience’s Aspirations
People often buy products because they want to become a better version of themselves. Write copy that speaks to who they aspire to be, not just who they are now.
45. Highlight Your Unique Selling Points (USPs)
Your USP should be woven throughout your copy. Whether it’s your exceptional service, innovative product, or competitive pricing, make sure people know why you stand out.
46. Test Different Versions of Your Copy
A/B testing lets you compare different versions of your copy to see which performs better. You can test headlines, CTA buttons, or even the layout to improve conversion rates.
47. Use Testimonials from Well-Known Figures in Your Industry
If you’ve worked with influencers, thought leaders, or industry experts, use their testimonials to boost credibility. People trust recommendations from recognizable names.
48. Address Pain Points Directly
Don’t dance around the problem your audience is facing—address it head-on. If your copy speaks to a specific pain point, people will feel like you understand them and are more likely to buy.
49. Be Authentic and Transparent
In an age of skepticism, people crave honesty. Don’t oversell or make false promises. Be clear about what your product does, and don’t be afraid to admit what it doesn’t do.
50. Break Long Paragraphs into Shorter Ones
Long paragraphs can feel overwhelming. Breaking them up into shorter sections makes your copy easier to read and less intimidating.
51. Offer Bonuses or Extras
People love getting more than they expected. Offering bonuses, free resources, or add-ons can sweeten the deal and encourage conversions.
52. Simplify Your Language
Complex words and jargon can confuse your audience. Stick to simple, everyday language that’s easy to understand.
53. Get Straight to the Point
Don’t waste time with long-winded introductions or fluffy language. Make your point quickly and clearly to keep your reader engaged.
54. Use Consistent Branding
Your copy should reflect your brand’s personality, whether it’s playful, professional, or laid-back. Consistency helps build trust and makes your brand memorable.
55. Write with Confidence
If you’re confident in your product or service, your audience will be too. Don’t be afraid to say “This is the best solution for you” or “You won’t find a better deal.”
56. Appeal to Logic and Emotion
Logic speaks to the brain, while emotion speaks to the heart. A successful copy should appeal to both, giving readers both a rational and emotional reason to buy.
57. Create a Sense of Belonging
People want to feel like they’re part of something bigger. Use language that builds community, like “Join thousands of satisfied customers” or “Become part of our growing family.”
Learn how to trigger a sense of belonging.
58. Use Real-Life Examples
Real-life examples or case studies give your copy credibility. They show how your product has worked for others, making it easier for potential customers to visualize themselves benefiting too.
59. Share Behind-the-Scenes Details
Sharing behind-the-scenes content makes your brand feel more human. Show how your product is made or introduce the team that makes it all happen.
60. Focus on Storytelling
People are naturally drawn to stories. Tell a story about how your product was developed, a problem it solved for a customer, or how it’s changing the world.
61. Give Them a Reason to Trust You
Build trust with certifications, awards, or security assurances like “100% secure checkout.” Trust is essential for online purchases.
62. Use Numbers to Add Precision
People are drawn to numbers because they add credibility. Instead of “hundreds of happy customers,” say “over 2,000 happy customers.”
63. Use Power Words to Evoke Emotions
Power words like “amazing,” “proven,” “guaranteed,” and “life-changing” evoke strong emotions and make your copy more persuasive.
64. Offer Flexible Payment Options
If price is a barrier for your audience, offering flexible payment plans can make your product more accessible and encourage purchases.
65. Write as If You’re Speaking to a Friend
The best copy feels like a conversation between friends. Keep it casual, friendly, and personal to create a strong connection with your reader.
66. Address Objections in Your Copy
Anticipate objections and address them upfront. If people often hesitate because of price, explain why your product is worth the investment.
67. Use Urgency to Drive Action
Urgency pushes people to take action. Words like “limited time,” “hurry,” and “while supplies last” create a sense of immediacy that encourages quick decisions.
68. Avoid Overused Phrases and Clichés
Phrases like “act now” and “don’t miss out” are so overused that they’ve lost their effectiveness. Instead, come up with fresh, original ways to convey urgency or value.
69. Write a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)
Your CTA should tell the reader exactly what to do next. Use clear, action-oriented language like “Buy Now,” “Start Your Free Trial,” or “Get Started Today.”
70. Emphasize the Benefit, Not the Feature
Features describe what your product does, while benefits explain how it helps the customer. Focus on the benefits to show why your product matters.
71. Create a Narrative Arc
Just like a story, your copy should have a beginning, middle, and end. The beginning hooks the reader, the middle explains the solution, and the end presents the offer or CTA.
72. Make Your Copy Mobile-Friendly
More people are reading on mobile devices, so make sure your copy is mobile-friendly. Use short paragraphs, large fonts, and clickable CTAs.
73. Use Similes and Analogies
Similes and analogies help simplify complex concepts. For example, “Our service is as easy as ordering a pizza” instantly conveys ease of use.
74. Give a Sneak Peek of What’s to Come
Tease what the customer can expect after purchasing your product. This builds excitement and anticipation, making them more likely to follow through.
75. Test for Readability
Before publishing your copy, run it through a readability checker to ensure it’s easy to understand. Aim for a 6th to 8th-grade reading level to reach the broadest audience.
76. Write for Humans, Not Robots
SEO is important, but don’t sacrifice readability for the sake of keywords. Your copy should feel natural and human, not stuffed with robotic-sounding phrases.
77. Add Urgent CTAs (Call-to-Actions)
Create CTAs with a sense of urgency to get readers to act quickly, like “Buy Now—Limited Time Offer!”
78. Use Social Proof
Showcase real customer reviews, case studies, and endorsements. Social proof builds credibility and shows potential buyers that others are satisfied with your product.
79. Include a Compelling Storyline
Incorporate storytelling in your copy by relating to a common problem or aspiration your customers face, and how your product helps them.
80. Leverage Emotional Triggers
Make sure your copy tugs at the heartstrings of your readers by leveraging emotions like happiness, security, love, or even fear to motivate them.
81. Be Specific and Precise
Vague copy like “We offer the best service” is less effective than specific claims like “We’ve helped over 10,000 people boost their sales by 30%.”
82. Personalize with Names
Whenever possible, personalize your copy with the reader’s name or a nod to their specific needs. This makes the message feel more intimate.
83. Avoid Jargon and Buzzwords
Unless you’re writing for a highly specialized audience, avoid industry jargon and buzzwords that can confuse or alienate readers.
84. Use Visuals to Complement Your Text
A picture is worth a thousand words. Use high-quality visuals, videos, or infographics to complement your copy and reinforce your message.
85. Write in Second Person (You)
Address your audience directly by using “you” instead of “we” or “they.” This makes your copy feel more personal and relevant to the reader.
86. Use Short Sentences for Clarity
Long sentences can be hard to follow. Keep your sentences short and to the point to maintain clarity and hold attention.
87. Make the Copy Easy to Skim
Many readers skim instead of reading word-for-word. Use headers, bullet points, and bolded text to make important points stand out.
88. Use Active Voice
Active voice makes your copy more direct and engaging. For example, instead of saying “The product was created by our team,” say “Our team created the product.”
89. Test Your Headline
Your headline is the first thing people see, so make sure it grabs attention. Test different versions to find the one that performs best.
90. Show the Value in the First Few Seconds
Capture your reader’s attention quickly by showing them the value of your offer within the first few sentences of your copy.
91. Highlight the Benefits of the Product
Rather than simply listing features, focus on how the product will improve the customer’s life, save them time, or solve a problem.
92. Add Scarcity to Increase Desire
Scarcity techniques like limited-time offers or limited stock can create urgency and push readers to take action before it’s too late.
93. Include Testimonials or Reviews
Testimonials build trust. Show real-life reviews or case studies to back up your claims and make your product more appealing.
94. Avoid Using Too Many Exclamation Points
Overusing exclamation points can make your copy look unprofessional or overly aggressive. Use them sparingly for emphasis.
95. Address Customer Pain Points
Clearly identify the customer’s problems or pain points, then present your product as the solution to those issues.
96. Write as if You’re Talking to a Friend
The best copy feels conversational and relatable. Write in a friendly, approachable tone as if you’re chatting with a friend.
97. Add Humor, If Appropriate
Humor can make your copy more engaging and memorable. Just be sure it fits your brand and doesn’t distract from the main message.
98. Create a Sense of Urgency
Urgency tactics like “limited-time offers” or “only 3 left in stock” encourage readers to take immediate action.
99. Appeal to Your Audience’s Emotions
Use emotional language to create a connection with your readers. People are more likely to act when they feel emotionally invested.
100. Create Curiosity
Entice readers to keep reading by creating curiosity. Pique their interest with questions, bold statements, or little-known facts that make them want to learn more.
101. Test Your Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Your CTAs should be clear and compelling. Test different phrasing, colors, and placements to see which drives the most conversions.
Final Thoughts on How to Write Copy That Sells
Feeling overwhelmed by all the ways to write copy that sells? Don’t worry, I get it!
Copywriting is both an art and a science, and it can take time to master.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to go it alone.
Our team of professional copywriters knows exactly how to create compelling, engaging, and effective copy that drives sales.
Whether you need help crafting the perfect email sequence, website content, or product descriptions, we’re here to help you grow your business.
Ready to take your copy to the next level? Contact us today, and let’s get started on writing copy that truly sells!