Writing for the Web Articles & Videos

  • Better Labels for Website Links: the 4 Ss for Encouraging Clicks

    4 guidelines for writing the link texts on websites to ensure users click the right options. Links should be Specific, Sincere, Substantial, and Succinct.

  • Text Scanning Patterns: Eyetracking Evidence

    Eyetracking research shows that there are 4 main patterns that people use to scan textual information on webpages: F-pattern, spotted pattern, layer-cake pattern, and commitment pattern.

  • The Layer-Cake Pattern of Scanning Content on the Web

    When headings and subheadings visually stand out on the page and are descriptive, users engage in an efficient scanning pattern that allows them to quickly find the information that they need.

  • "About Us" Information on Websites

    Users expect About Us sections to be clear, authentic, and transparent. They compare corporate content with third-party reviews to form a holistic opinion of a company before initiating business or applying for jobs.

  • Better Link Labels: 4Ss for Encouraging Clicks

    Specific link text sets sincere expectations and fulfills them, and is substantial enough to stand alone while remaining succinct.

  • Interface Copy Impacts Decision Making

    The language used in interfaces influences the decisions that our users will make. Manipulative copy nudges users towards making choices that are against their best interests.

  • Establishing Tone of Voice

    Learn how to establish tone of voice in your experience and evaluate the impression your copy leaves on users.

  • Why Chunking Content is Important

    Chunking makes content easier to comprehend and remember. Chunking text help users understand the relationship between content elements and information hierarchy.

  • Translation and Localization

    The language of your product is important when communicating with a global audience. Translation and localization are two different levels of adaptation.

  • Plain Language for Everyone, Even Experts

    In our usability study with domain experts, we discovered that even highly educated readers crave succinct information that is easy to scan, just like everyone else.

  • Inverted Pyramid: Writing for Comprehension

    Start content with the most important piece of information so readers can get the main point, regardless of how much they read. This style of writing is perfectly suited to writing for the web.

  • F-Shaped Pattern of Reading on the Web: Misunderstood, But Still Relevant (Even on Mobile)

    Eyetracking research shows that people scan webpages and phone screens in various patterns, one of them being the shape of the letter F. Eleven years after discovering this pattern, we revisit what it means today.

  • Exhaustive Review or “I Can’t Believe It’s Not There” Phenomenon: Evidence from Eyetracking

    Repeatedly scanning the same content can indicate confusion or engagement. Often, it happens because users’ expectations are not met.

  • Plain Language Is for Everyone, Even Experts

    Professionals want clear, concise information devoid of unnecessary jargon or complex terms. Plain language is a necessity and benefits both consumers and organizations.

  • F-Pattern in Reading Digital Content

    Eyetracking research shows people read Web content in the F-pattern. The results highlight the importance of following guidelines for writing for the Web.

  • "Get Started" Stops Users

    A generic Get Started call-to-action attracts clicks, but also misleads users and acts as a roadblock for those looking to get information about the company.

  • How to Present Scientific Findings Online

    To appeal to experts, provide concise titles and summaries, use clear headings, charts and figures, and don’t overdo visual design.

  • Writing Digital Copy for Domain Experts

    These tips for writing web content for specialized audiences will help you sound authoritative and bolster your credibility. Professionals want content that is easy to scan, factual, and verifiable.

  • 7 Tips for Presenting Bulleted Lists in Digital Content

    Bullet points help break up large blocks of text, make complex articles and blog posts easier to grasp, and make key information stand out.

  • Microcontent: A Few Small Words Have a Mega Impact on Business

    Well-written, short text fragments presented out of supporting context can provide valuable information and nudge web users toward a desired action.