Copywriting Basics – Simple & Powerful Writing for Marketing
Module 1: Introduction to Copywriting (20 mins)
What is Copywriting?
-
Copywriting is the art of writing persuasive text (copy) that encourages the reader to take a specific action: buy, sign up, click, or follow.
-
Found everywhere: ads, websites, emails, product pages, etc.
Examples:
-
Flipkart Ad: “India’s Biggest Sale – Up to 80% Off. Shop Now!”
-
Zomato Notification: “Hungry? Your cravings are just a tap away.”
Topics Covered:
-
Purpose of copywriting
-
Where copywriting is used (ads, emails, landing pages, websites)
-
Why it matters in marketing
Activity:
Identify copywriting examples in your WhatsApp ads or Instagram feed.
Module 2: Content Writing vs. Copywriting (15 mins)
Key Differences:
Feature | Content Writing | Copywriting |
---|---|---|
Goal | Inform, educate, entertain | Persuade and get action |
Example | Blog on "Best Jeans for Men" | Ad: "Stretchable, Stylish, Just ₹999" |
Length | Long-form (blogs, guides) | Short and punchy (ads, banners) |
Style | Neutral, informative | Emotional, benefit-driven |
Analogy:
-
Content Writing = Teaching
-
Copywriting = Selling
Module 3: Copywriting Techniques (35 mins)
1. AIDA Formula (Attention – Interest – Desire – Action)
-
Example (Phone Ad):
-
Attention: “This Phone Has No Competition”
-
Interest: “Smoothest 120Hz Display + 108MP Camera”
-
Desire: “Stylish, Slim & Just ₹14,999”
-
Action: “Buy Now on Amazon”
-
2. PAS Formula (Problem – Agitate – Solution)
-
Example (Weight loss ad):
-
Problem: “Tried Everything to Lose Weight?”
-
Agitate: “Still feeling tired, bloated, and low on confidence?”
-
Solution: “Try our 15-Day Fat Burn Challenge – Results or Money Back!”
-
3. Use of Emotions
-
Emotional triggers: fear, desire, happiness, love
-
Example: “Protect your loved ones. Get insurance today.”
4. Power Words
-
Words like: “Free,” “Now,” “Secret,” “Guaranteed,” “Instant,” “Limited Time”
-
Example: “Get your Free Trial today – No credit card needed!”
Activity:
Write a PAS or AIDA-style ad for a local restaurant or product.
Module 4: Crafting Ad Copy & Emails (40 mins)
1. Writing Great Ad Copy
-
Keep it Short, Clear, and Benefit-Focused
-
Focus on customer needs, not features.
Example (Men’s Jeans Ad for India):
-
“Stretchable. Durable. Stylish. Just ₹899 – Shop Now!”
Steps:
-
Hook (Grab attention in the first 3 words)
-
Benefit (What’s in it for the reader?)
-
CTA (Clear Call to Action like “Buy Now,” “Get Offer”)
2. Writing Effective Email Copy
-
Subject Line: 50% of the job is done here.
-
“🔥 50% Off Jeans – Ends Tonight!”
-
-
Opening Line: Create curiosity
-
“Still thinking about those jeans?”
-
-
Body: Short and scannable
-
CTA: One clear action
-
“Shop the sale now”
-
Email Copy Example:
Subject: Last Chance! 50% Off Ends Tonight
Body:
Hey [Name],
Your perfect pair of jeans is waiting. Super comfy. Super stylish. Now at half the price.
🕒 Only a few hours left!
[Shop Now]
BONUS: Copywriting Do's and Don’ts
Do's | Don’ts |
---|---|
Use simple, everyday language | Don’t use jargon |
Focus on benefits | Don’t list boring features |
Include urgency | Don’t leave reader confused |
Write to one person (You tone) | Don’t be generic |
Final Exercise:
Create one Facebook ad copy and one promotional email for:
-
A local café
-
An online fashion brand
-
A fitness app