The Real Difference Between Content Writing and Copywriting

While creating a website is the first step to getting exposure for your business, digital marketing is the other part of the equation. Content writing and copywriting are both integral parts of digital marketing because they play a role in driving sales and increasing profits.

While content writing and copywriting are both essential, they are starkly different from one another. Understanding this difference is critical for crafting an effective digital marketing strategy.

Content Writing

Content writing is the creation of text-based content that is designed to inform or entertain audiences. Content writing can sometimes drive sales; however, that is not its primary purpose.

Content must be high quality, so readers feel like they are receiving something of value. Content can provide readers with:

• Helpful tips and tricks
• Useful information on a particular subject
• Educational insights
• Industry news and updates

Content writing is sometimes referred to as content marketing because the content can be used to establish business owners as authorities in their respective industries—a tactic designed to build trust and begin a professional relationship.

Copywriting

The primary purpose of copywriting is to persuade readers to take a particular action that relates to your sales process. Business owners use copywriting to convince readers that their products and services are worth purchasing. Some copywriting is also used to get readers to call businesses to receive more information.

Other Key Differences

Aside from the difference in purpose, there are other important distinctions:

Emotional Appeal

Content writing is not designed to stir up emotions, whereas copywriting is designed to play on readers' emotions so they will take action. Copywriters can cause readers to feel:

• A fear of missing out (FOMO)
• Excitement about a specific deal
• Urgency to act now

Grammar and Style

In content writing, grammar errors must be nonexistent. When readers spot grammar errors in content, they lose their train of thought and may abandon reading. Errors can also hurt your reputation.

Copywriting, on the other hand, can sometimes use incomplete sentences, slang, and unconventional grammar to make a point or create a conversational tone.

SEO Benefits

Content writing is better for search engine optimization. Because content writing is created for informational purposes, readers enjoy consuming and sharing it with others. Content writing is also typically longer than copywriting, meaning it can rank higher for keywords.

Examples of Each

Content Writing Examples

• White papers
• Blog posts
• E-books
• Evergreen articles
• Email newsletters
• Tutorials
• News articles
• Case studies

Copywriting Examples

• SMS ads
• Website sales copy
• PPC landing pages
• Social media ads
• Sales emails
• Product pages
• PPC ads

Using Both Effectively

Now that you understand the differences between content writing and copywriting, you can craft a digital marketing strategy that uses both effectively. Understanding these differences enables you to leverage both pieces of the digital marketing equation to enhance your success.