01 / THE IDEA
What does it mean?
Microcopy is the short text in labels, hints, and messages. Put it where someone needs to make a decision. A button labeled “Send invitation” makes the next action clearer than “Continue.”
02 / IN PRACTICE
Make it concrete.
Illustrative example: Beside a delete button, “This removes the draft, not the published page” resolves uncertainty.
03 / WHAT TO WATCH FOR
A common mistake.
Writing friendly but vague labels that do not tell users what will happen.
04 / WHEN IT HELPS
When should you use it?
When people hesitate because the consequence of an action is unclear.
05 / FURTHER READING
Explore the source.
Nielsen Norman Group — Writing for the Web ↗A reference for further learning, not an endorsement or verbatim quotation.