Web text
A Web text is a text written specifically for use on a Web site. Web site texts are spread across multiple web pages, each with its own function and content. Web texts can be written offline and then posted online, or entered directly into the cms.
One of the challenges in writing Web copy is that, unlike a book, Web sites are not read from beginning to end. Each text stands alone, but the texts together form a whole. Also, the visitor 's attention span is usually relatively limited relative to the amount of information offered.
The following success factors apply when writing successful web copy:
- Shorter texts are read better;
- Avoid woolly language and complicated terms;
- Add headings and blank lines to make the text more scannable;
- Provide a clear structure (following the AIDA model, for example);
- Include internal links whenever possible;
- Use present formatting features of html, such as tables, bulleted lists and citation blocks.
Although texts on the Web are accessible to everyone, even when writing a Web text it is important to consider both the target audience and point of view as well as the purpose of the text.