Microcopy Samples
Overview
I participated in a UX writing challenge that included a series of prompts focused on key user moments—onboarding, error handling, confirmations, and more. Each one asked for clear, purposeful copy that supports the user experience. For each highlighted exercise, I’ve included a short note about the context and thinking behind my decisions.
In-Store to online: converting physical shoppers
Scenario: A user is in their favorite supermarket. They open the supermarket’s app on their phone to see what’s on sale and are greeted by a promotion.
Challenge: Write a promotional home screen for a subscription service that delivers groceries to the user once a month for a flat fee.
Headline: 45 characters max; Body: 175 characters max; Button(s): 25 characters max
Solution: Since the user is already in the store, I wanted the message to feel like a quick, friendly interruption. The headline “Doorstep Delivery!” is clear and benefit-first, highlighting exactly what’s being offered. The exclamation point adds light energy without feeling pushy.
In the body, I emphasized convenience (“skip the lines”), clarity (“flat fee”), and urgency (“try it this month”). The CTA “Learn More” keeps the ask low-friction—ideal for first-time users.
Safety alert: balancing urgency without panic
Scenario: It’s Monday. A user has just gotten into their car to drive to work. They plug their phone into the car and start driving.
Challenge: How would you let the user know there’s a fire happening in a nearby town that is causing road closures? The effect on their commute is unknown, but there is a definite danger if the fire gets closer. How do you communicate this to them? When? Write it.
Headline: 30 characters max; Body: 45 characters max
Solution: This alert is meant to be delivered right as the user starts their drive—early enough to reroute if needed, but without overwhelming them with worst-case language.
I chose “WARNING!” as the headline for maximum visibility, paired with a short, neutral message that conveys urgency without causing panic. “Check your route for safety” prompts the user to take action while leaving room for the situation to evolve. The message is intentionally brief to minimize distraction while driving.
SEO copy: trust-building for senior users
Scenario: An elderly user is doing a Google search to find an easy way to buy contact lenses online.
Challenge: Write a title and meta description for a website that sells subscription contact lenses delivered to a user every 30 days—convince them to try it.
Title: 60 characters max; Meta Description: 160 characters max
Solution: I opened with the price and service (“$40 monthly delivery”) to grab attention and communicate value immediately, which is especially helpful for older users comparing options.
The body uses plain, reassuring language to highlight convenience: automatic delivery, no need to reorder, and peace of mind. “Never run out” speaks directly to a common frustration, while “Try it now” invites action without pressure.
Data collection: reframing privacy concerns
Scenario: The user is trying to view a website to help them buy a car. But, the content can’t load without the user’s location. They need to enter their ZIP code and first name.
Challenge: Ask them where they live and who they are without sounding like you're unnecessarily mining their data.
Headline: 25 characters; Body: 45 characters; Button: 15 characters
Solution: The headline “Let’s find your dream car” shifts focus away from data collection and onto user benefit: what they’re here to do. It’s inviting, not transactional.
In the body, “Just tell us where to look & we’ll do the rest” frames ZIP and name entry as necessary for personalized help. It sets a helpful tone and builds trust. The CTA “See the possibilities” reinforces that this action leads directly to value.
Error recovery: maintaining creative flow
Scenario: The user works in graphic design. While critiquing a design in a mobile app, their phone abruptly turns off. When they restart the phone, they reopen the app.
Challenge: Write a message that the user will read immediately upon opening the app. What do they need to know? What steps (if any) do they need to take to recover their content?
Headline: 40 characters max; Body: 140 characters max; Button(s): 20 characters max
Solution: I wanted to acknowledge the error without triggering panic. “Oh snap!” keeps the tone casual and familiar—especially for creative users who are used to fast-moving tools.
The body gets to the point quickly: something went wrong, but nothing was lost. I focused on reassurance, confirming that their progress was saved and they can jump right back in. The CTA “Resume Work” is direct and calming—minimizing disruption and making the path forward feel easy.
Emotional connection: FOMO to feature benefits
Scenario: A user is a working parent and a big sports fan, in the midst of their favorite sports season, who can no longer attend games.
Challenge: Write a promotional screen for an app that lets a user choose teams, sends game reminders, real-time score updates, and highlight videos.
Headline: 40 characters max; Body: 175 characters max; Button(s): 25 characters max
Solution: I focused on empathy first. The user is juggling work, parenting, and missing out on live games. The headline acknowledges that tension and offers a solution. It promises emotional payoff—staying connected to their team, even when they can’t be there in person.
The body reinforces the value: real-time updates, reminders, and highlight videos, framed as something better than being there, not just second-best. The buttons offer two clear paths: immediate action (“Try Now”) or low-commitment curiosity (“See More”).