So you want to become a copywriter? I can't say I blame you. Like you, I love to write, and there is something very appealing about writing copy that has the potential of influencing many people. More than any type of writing, copywriting tries to hit a person's emotions hard and fast, to compel them to instant action. But you need some copywriting training to get you started. Don't try to sell yourself as a full-fledged copywriter until you're ready. This web page offers copy writing training.
What you need to do to train yourself to be a copywriter:
- Educate yourself, prepare yourself. Copywriting is not something you just wake up one day and know how to do. It takes study, learning, and knowledge.
- Read books on copywriting. The best way for me to learn is through reading. So many excellent books on the art and skill of copywriting are available.
- Take copywriting classes or courses. Go to our copywriting classes page for more details.
- Practice, practice, practice. Make mistakes you can learn from without suffering the penalties of the mistakes! You'll never become a great copywriter unless you practice it.
I highly recommend reading some outstanding books that give tips on copywriting and understanding the copywriting industry:
The Copywriter's Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Copy That Sells. This is a book for everyone who writes or approves copy--copywriting experts, account executives, creative directors, freelance writers, advertising managers... even entrepreneurs and brand managers. It reveals dozens of copywriting techniques that can help you write ads, commercials, and direct mail that get more attention, and sell more products.
Teach Yourself Copywriting. This guide reveals some of advertising's greatest creative secrets. From planning to implementation, it guides readers step-by-step through copywriting skills for a range of disciplines, including the most up-to-date information on the Internet, radio and TV, business-to-business, public relations, recruitment, and charities. Featured are practical exercises, summaries, and quick tips that allow readers to practice their skills, along with a list of useful addresses.
The Elements of Style. A fundamental resource for writers, editors, and students. This is the best single source for anyone who desires a pithy, lively guide to the essentials of effective writing. It addresses how to apply the basic principles of grammar and punctuation, properly construct a sentence and a paragraph, use words and expressions in their proper form and context, and avoid the mistakes and mannerisms that make for turgid, pretentious, or simply unintelligible copywriting.