Writing for the Web › introduction 5.1 introduction Online copy is a hardworking multi-tasker. It must provide information to visitors, engage with them, convince them to take a desired action and all the while, convey brand ethos. It also has to provide context and relevance to search engines. All this it needs to achieve, without appearing to be trying too hard. You will see in this chapter that writing for the web is different to writing for more traditional media. Secondly, when it comes to the Internet, content is king! Many people argue that it is one of the most significant determinants of the success of your online campaigns. Considering it is one of the most direct lines of communication with your consumers, this is not surprising. Online copywriting involves everything from the copy of a website, to the content of an email and all things in between. From WebPR articles of 800 words to three line PPC adverts, if it’s being read on a screen, it’s online copy. Writing for the web does not mean the traditional rules of writing need to be abandoned. By and large, the foundations remain. In this chapter, we’re going to look at the basic principles you need to know when writing for the web. We cover knowing your audience and understanding HTML. We introduce the concept of keywords and writing for search engine optimisation (SEO), look at the types of web copy that you can use and finally, we outline the best practices for successful online copywriting. 5.2 key terms and concepts term definition Above the fold The content that appears on a screen without a user having to scroll. A word that conveys action or behaviour, and in a Call to Action, tells a Active verb reader what to do. Benefit The positive outcome for a user that a feature provides. Call to Action Words used to encourage a prospect to take a particular action. (CTA) Dynamic keyword In paid search advertising, this allows keywords used in searches to be insertion inserted automatically into advert copy. Feature A prominent aspect of a product which is beneficial to users.116