Ad Copywriting: Write Ads That Actually Convert
Most ads fail because they sound like features, not fixes. Good ad copy answers one simple question fast: what's in it for me? Use this page to grab practical tips, quick templates, and ideas that work across platforms — from search and social to in-game ads.
Core rules that boost clicks
1) Lead with the benefit. Say the outcome first, not the feature. 2) Be specific. Numbers, timeframes, and clear offers cut through noise. 3) Add a tiny dose of urgency or scarcity when it fits — limited spots, short trials, or expiring bonuses. 4) Proof matters: one short social proof line beats a long list of claims.
Quick templates that convert
Search ad (headline + desc): Headline: Save 20% on [Product] — Free 30-day trial. Description: Try [Product] risk-free and get fast results in 7 days. Claim your discount.
Social post: Hook: Sick of slow growth? Benefit: Double your leads with one simple funnel. CTA: Book a 15-minute demo — spots open.
In-game ad micro-copy: Make it punchy and optional. Micro-copy: Want XP boosts? Tap to unlock 3x XP for 24 hours — try free.
ChatGPT can speed up ideation: ask for 20 headline variations, then pick the top 3 and test. Don't publish the first draft—edit for voice, accuracy, and brand fit.
Always run A/B tests: change one element at a time — headline, image, CTA. Track CTR, conversion rate, cost per acquisition, and landing page engagement to know what works.
Create a swipe file: save high-performing headlines and short hooks you can reuse. Build three test variations before launching a campaign — you’ll learn faster and waste less budget.
Swap 'Buy now' for 'Start free trial' to reduce friction. Change vague benefit to specific: 'Lose weight' becomes 'Lose 10 lbs in 6 weeks'.
If you want more examples from real campaigns, check posts on ChatGPT for Advertising, ChatGPT for Twitter, and social media guides on this site. Start with one platform, test fast, keep what works, kill what doesn't.
Short checklist before you hit publish: Checklist: headline promises a clear benefit, the description adds proof, CTA tells the exact next step, offer is specific, page delivers on the ad's promise. Remove jargon and filler — simple words beat clever words when attention is short. One strong visual plus one tight line often outperforms long blocks of text.
Want a quick starter? Try this mini brief for writers: goal, audience, top benefit, proof, CTA, tone. Example: Increase newsletter signups among small e-comm owners by 30%: Offer a free 10-step checklist, show a case study stat, CTA: Get the checklist.
Write one headline that scares you—if it feels too bold, test it. Keep a running list of losers—knowing what failed is as useful as what won. If you want a fast walk-through, our posts on ChatGPT for Advertising and social media guides show real prompts and results.
Start small, test weekly, and keep refining—great ad copy is a habit, not a moment.