If you’re a new freelance writer, you’ve probably come across the term “copywriting.” But what exactly does it mean, and how is it different from regular content writing? More importantly, how can learning copywriting help you build a stronger, more profitable writing career?
In this article, we’ll explore what copywriting is, why it’s in high demand, and how you can start learning and using it to stand out as a beginner freelancer.
What is Copywriting?
Copywriting is the art and science of writing persuasive content designed to make the reader take a specific action. That action could be:
- Clicking a link
- Subscribing to a newsletter
- Making a purchase
- Booking a call
- Downloading a resource
Unlike blog articles, which focus on informing or entertaining the reader, copywriting is focused on converting the reader into a customer, lead, or subscriber.
How is Copywriting Different from Content Writing?
| Content Writing | Copywriting |
|---|---|
| Educates or informs | Persuades and sells |
| Focuses on SEO and readability | Focuses on action and emotion |
| Common in blogs and articles | Common in ads, emails, landing pages |
| Objective tone | Emotional, conversational tone |
As a freelance writer, having both skills is a powerful combination. You’ll be able to write blog posts and sales pages, making you more valuable to clients.
Examples of Copywriting in Action
You’ve seen copywriting everywhere — even if you didn’t realize it. Examples include:
- Facebook and Instagram ads
- Email marketing campaigns
- Product descriptions on e-commerce sites
- Website landing pages
- Headlines for webinars and sales funnels
Copywriting is behind almost every written message that tries to get you to click, sign up, or buy something.
Why Learning Copywriting Can Boost Your Career
1. It’s in High Demand
Every business needs to sell something — whether it’s a product, service, or idea. That’s why skilled copywriters are constantly in demand by:
- Online stores
- Coaches and consultants
- SaaS companies
- Course creators
- Digital agencies
2. You Can Charge Higher Rates
While blog content may pay between $0.03–$0.10 per word, copywriting projects can pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars per page — because good copy generates sales.
Some high-paying copywriting projects include:
- Sales pages
- Landing pages
- Product descriptions
- Email sequences
- Ad campaigns
3. You Become a More Strategic Writer
Copywriting isn’t just about writing — it’s about thinking like a marketer. Clients will see you as a content creator who also understands business goals, customer psychology, and conversions.
This means you’re no longer “just a writer” — you’re a problem solver.
Basic Copywriting Techniques Every Beginner Should Learn
1. AIDA Formula
One of the most famous copywriting frameworks:
- Attention – Grab the reader’s attention with a headline or hook
- Interest – Build curiosity and connect emotionally
- Desire – Explain how the product/service solves a problem
- Action – Tell the reader what to do next (CTA)
2. PAS Formula
Another classic structure:
- Problem – Describe the pain point
- Agitation – Emphasize the problem’s emotional impact
- Solution – Offer the product or service as the solution
3. Use of Power Words
Power words trigger emotions and create urgency. Examples:
- Secret
- Proven
- Limited-time
- Instantly
- You
- Free
- Exclusive
- Effortless
Use them strategically in headlines and CTAs.
4. Features vs. Benefits
Beginner writers often focus too much on features. Copywriters highlight benefits.
Example:
- Feature: “Our app has cloud backup.”
- Benefit: “Never lose your work again — your data is automatically saved in the cloud.”
Where to Learn Copywriting (for Free or Cheap)
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get started. Here are some excellent learning resources:
- YouTube channels: Alex Cattoni, Neville Medhora, Copy Posse
- Free e-books: Search for “copywriting swipe files” or “free copywriting books”
- Newsletters: Sign up for newsletters from pro copywriters
- Books:
- The Adweek Copywriting Handbook – Joseph Sugarman
- Made to Stick – Chip Heath & Dan Heath
- Influence – Robert Cialdini
Also, try rewriting ads or product pages from your favorite brands. This is great practice.
How to Practice Copywriting as a Beginner
Even if you don’t have paying clients, you can:
- Write your own sales page (for your services)
- Create fake product descriptions
- Write sample email sequences for imaginary businesses
- Build a swipe file of ads you like and analyze them
- Re-write bad ads into better ones
Tip: Create a section in your writing portfolio just for “Copywriting Samples.”
Where to Find Copywriting Jobs
You can find entry-level gigs on:
- Upwork (search “email copywriter” or “sales copy”)
- Fiverr (create copywriting-specific gigs)
- ProBlogger job board
- Reddit communities like r/freelanceWriters
- LinkedIn (post your samples and write about what you offer)
As your skills grow, you can move into more premium opportunities, including recurring clients.
Should You Specialize in Copywriting?
You don’t have to specialize immediately — but learning basic copywriting can enhance everything you write, from blog intros to call-to-action buttons.
Eventually, many writers shift toward copywriting full-time because:
- It pays better
- It’s highly creative
- It’s more business-oriented
- It creates long-term client relationships
If you like psychology, persuasion, and making words convert into money — copywriting may be a great fit for you.