Psychological Models for UX Writing

UX writing is not writing what looks nice or conveys the message. The user is at the centre of all your writings. That’s why I love using psychological models while writing UX copy, even if it’s for a button.

Here are the top 10 psychological models to keep in mind while writing UX copy:

1. Cognitive Load Theory: This model suggests that people have limited mental capacity, and that UX writing should be crafted in a way that minimizes cognitive load and makes it easier for users to process information.
2. Gestalt Theory: This model explains how people perceive and interpret visual information, and UX writers can use it to design content that is organized in a way that makes sense and is easy to understand.
3. Mental Models: This model suggests that people form mental models of how things work, and UX writers should use language that is consistent with those models to help users understand how to use a product.
4. Persuasion Theory: This model explores the psychological principles that influence human behavior, and UX writers can use it to craft content that persuades users to take certain actions or make specific choices.
5. Usability Testing: This model involves testing how users interact with a product and using that feedback to improve the user experience. UX writers can use this model to test the effectiveness of their language and make changes accordingly.
6. User-Centred Design: This model involves designing products based on the needs and preferences of users. UX writers can use this model to ensure that their language is tailored to the specific needs of the target audience.
7. Information Foraging Theory: This model explains how people search for and consume information online. UX writers can use this model to craft content that is easily scannable and helps users find the information they need quickly.
8. Affect Heuristic: This model suggests that people make decisions based on emotional responses, rather than logical analysis. UX writers can use this model to craft content that evokes emotional responses and influences user behavior.
9. Fitts’s Law: This model explains how people interact with physical objects, and UX writers can use it to design content that is easy to navigate and interact with.
10. Prospect Theory: This model explains how people make decisions under uncertainty, and UX writers can use it to craft content that minimises risk and encourages users to take action.