Ok, so the verdict is still out when it comes to defining the exact difference between ‘copy’ and ‘content’, but here are my thoughts on the matter, however right or wrong they may be. My line of thinking makes sense to me, so I figured I’d share and see if it makes sense to anyone else. Let me know whether you agree or disagree…
What is copy?
Copy is what you write when you’re writing with an aim to SELL.
Pieces of writing that fall under the status of ‘copy’ include, but are not limited to:
- Landing page copy
- Ad copy
- Brochure copy
- Billboard copy
- Product descriptions
What is content?
Content is what you write when you’re writing with an aim to ENTERTAIN or EDUCATE.
Pieces of writing that fall under the status of ‘content’ include, but are not limited to:
- Blog posts
- Social media post captions
- Social media video scripts
Of course, the line between these two styles of writing is blurry, at best. Sometimes a blog post might have the sole purpose of promoting a product. In this instance, you are likely to see a mix of copy and content forming to create an entertaining read with an aim to sell.
Examples of copy v content
Copy is…
In the form of a Facebook ad: “Are you struggling to make time to write ads for your business? Hire a copywriter through iScribe Creative today!”
Content is…
In the form of a Facebook post: “Today at the iScribe Creative office, we are celebrating our 2 year business anniversary!”
The first line is prompting you to invest in copywriting services. The second line is simply updating you on what’s happening in the iScribe Creative office with a purpose to inform and entertain.
Makes sense, right?
Some writers will argue that all copy is content, but not all content is copy. I do tend to agree with this in a broad sense. What do you think?
✨
Katelyn
THINK | WRITE | CREATE
