Avoid the lorem ipsum trap!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Problem with Lorem Ipsum
   • 2.1. Lack of Realistic Copy
   • 2.2. Incomprehensible Text
   • 2.3. Inaccurate Representation
   • 2.4. Client Attachment to Placeholder Text
3. The Importance of Well-Written Copy
   • 3.1. Making Informed Design Decisions
   • 3.2. Engaging and Informing the Reader
   • 3.3. Expressing the True Message
   • 3.4. Building Conversion-Driven Content
4. Writing Your Own Copy
   • 4.1. Relying on Your Expertise
   • 4.2. Avoiding Overly Clever Language
   • 4.3. Focusing on Communicating the Truth
5. Using Real Content as Placeholder
   • 5.1. Leveraging Existing Content Resources
   • 5.2. Avoiding Imaginary Placeholder Content
   • 5.3. Designing with Context and Relevance
6. Conclusion

The Evils of Lorem Ipsum: Why Real Copy Matters

Have you ever come across a design project that featured paragraphs of meaningless text known as Lorem Ipsum? In the design world, it has become a common practice to use this placeholder text to fill up space until the real content is ready. However, relying on Lorem Ipsum can be detrimental to the success of your project. In this article, we will explore the problems associated with using Lorem Ipsum and discuss the importance of using well-written, real copy.

1. Introduction

Lorem Ipsum has been the go-to filler text for designers for many years. It provides a quick and easy way to visually represent how text will look within a design layout. However, using Lorem Ipsum comes with several downsides that can hinder your project's effectiveness.

2. The Problem with Lorem Ipsum

2.1. Lack of Realistic Copy

One of the main issues with Lorem Ipsum is that it does not resemble real copy. Its gibberish nature makes it difficult to gauge how the actual content will flow and appear within the design. Each language has its own unique characteristics, and by using Lorem Ipsum, you lose the opportunity to consider the specific length, structure, and tone of the intended message.

2.2. Incomprehensible Text

Lorem Ipsum is fundamentally incomprehensible. It lacks meaning and context, making it impossible for both the designer and the client to fully understand and evaluate the design. How can you determine if the type is big enough or choose appropriate typography when you cannot engage with the content on a meaningful level?

2.3. Inaccurate Representation

By using Lorem Ipsum, you run the risk of misleading your client. When they see the design with placeholder text, they may become attached to the visual aspects without considering the actual message or functionality. It can lead to dissatisfaction when the final product incorporates realistic copy, potentially resulting in revisions and delays.

2.4. Client Attachment to Placeholder Text

Clients often struggle to think beyond what they see. When presented with design visuals containing Lorem Ipsum, they might focus on the aesthetics without paying attention to the underlying content. This can hamper effective communication between the designer and the client, leading to misunderstandings and a lack of clarity.

3. The Importance of Well-Written Copy

Real copy plays a vital role in the success of a design project. Here are a few reasons why it is crucial to prioritize well-written content:

3.1. Making Informed Design Decisions

By using real copy from the start, designers can make accurate design decisions based on the actual content. Understanding the message, tone, and structure of the text allows for better alignment between the design and the intended purpose, resulting in a more cohesive and effective final product.

3.2. Engaging and Informing the Reader

Well-written copy has the power to engage and inform the reader. It can elicit emotions, convey important information, and leave a lasting impression. By using real copy, designers create a more meaningful and impactful user experience.

3.3. Expressing the True Message

Every design project has a unique message to convey. Using real copy ensures that this message is accurately communicated. The nuances of language and tone can significantly alter the meaning, and by employing real content, designers can embrace the intended voice and capture the true essence of the project.

3.4. Building Conversion-Driven Content

For websites and other conversion-focused designs, well-crafted copy is essential. Real content allows designers to structure their layouts and calls-to-action based on the actual flow of information. It enables a strategic approach to optimize conversions and achieve the desired results.

4. Writing Your Own Copy

While many designers may shy away from writing copy, it is an essential skill to develop. Here's why you should consider taking a stab at writing your own copy:

4.1. Relying on Your Expertise

As a designer, you possess valuable knowledge about the project's goals, target audience, and desired outcome. You have a unique perspective that allows you to create copy that aligns perfectly with the design and project objectives.

4.2. Avoiding Overly Clever Language

Copywriting often involves creativity and cleverness. However, when it comes to the initial phase of writing placeholder content, it's best to focus on simplicity and clarity. The truth is often the most effective approach when presenting information to users.

4.3. Focusing on Communicating the Truth

When writing your own copy, prioritize authenticity and clarity. Concentrate on conveying the truth and the intended message without unnecessary embellishments. This approach ensures that the copy remains highly effective even without relying on complex language or fancy metaphors.

5. Using Real Content as Placeholder

Instead of resorting to Lorem Ipsum, consider using real content as a placeholder. Here's why it can be a better alternative:

5.1. Leveraging Existing Content Resources

If your project is similar to previous ones, utilize existing content resources. Reusing relevant sections from previous designs or projects offers a more authentic representation of the intended content. It also gives clients a clearer understanding of what the final product will entail.

5.2. Avoiding Imaginary Placeholder Content

Creating imaginary content only adds unnecessary complexity to the design process. By using actual content, even if it is repurposed, you ensure that the design evolves around real, tangible elements, catering to the needs of both the users and the client.

5.3. Designing with Context and Relevance

Real content provides valuable context and relevance to the design process. By incorporating actual copy, designers can consider the length, formatting, and structure of the content, resulting in layouts that are optimized for readability and user experience.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of Lorem Ipsum as placeholder text has severe limitations and can hinder the success of design projects. Embracing real, well-written copy from the start allows for more informed design decisions, better communication with clients, and ultimately, more impactful designs. So, the next time you're working on a project, remember the evils of Lorem Ipsum and opt for real copy instead.

Highlights:

• The use of Lorem Ipsum as placeholder text hampers the effectiveness of design projects.
• Lorem Ipsum is incomprehensible and lacks realistic representation.
• Well-written copy helps in making informed design decisions and engaging the reader.
• Real content expresses the true message and fosters conversion-driven designs.
• Designers should consider writing their own copy, focusing on clarity and authenticity.
• Using real content as a placeholder provides context and relevance to the design process.