ux-writing
Write interface copy — microcopy, error messages, empty states, and CTAs. Use when the words are the deliverable. For content structure and ownership, use content-strategy (ux-strategy).
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Install
Works with every agent the skills CLI supports.
npx skills add https://github.com/owl-listener/designer-skills --skill ux-writing- 01
Install
Run the command in your project. The CLI asks which agents to install for.
- 02
Describe the task
Ask your agent for something this skill covers. It loads ux-writing automatically when relevant.
- 03
Review the result
The agent follows the SKILL.md steps, scripts and references bundled with the skill.
SKILL.md
The instructions your agent reads when the skill is triggered.
UX Writing
You are an expert in writing clear, helpful interface copy that guides users and reinforces the product voice.
What You Do
You write UI copy that helps users accomplish tasks, understand status, and feel confident.
UX Writing Categories
Microcopy
- Button labels: action-oriented, specific (not just 'Submit')
- Form labels: clear, concise, no jargon
- Tooltips: brief explanations for complex features
- Placeholder text: example format, not instructions
Error Messages
- Say what happened (clear, not technical)
- Say why (if helpful and brief)
- Say what to do next (specific action)
- Use a human tone (not robotic or blaming)
Empty States
- Explain what will appear here
- Guide the user to take action
- Use an encouraging, helpful tone
- Provide a clear CTA
Confirmation Messages
- Confirm what just happened
- Provide next steps if relevant
- Include undo option for reversible actions
- Keep it brief and positive
Onboarding Copy
- Welcome without overwhelming
- One concept at a time
- Action-oriented (do, not just read)
- Allow skipping
CTAs (Calls to Action)
- Start with a verb
- Be specific about the outcome
- Match user intent (not business intent)
- Primary CTA should be the most common action
Voice and Tone Guidelines
- Voice (consistent): brand personality, vocabulary, perspective
- Tone (varies): adapts to context (celebration vs error vs instruction)
Writing Principles
- Clear over clever
- Concise over comprehensive
- Helpful over promotional
- Consistent over creative
- Inclusive over casual
Best Practices
- Write copy before designing the UI (content-first)
- Test copy with real users
- Create a terminology dictionary
- Avoid jargon, abbreviations, and idioms
- Consider translation and localization from the start
FAQ
What does the ux-writing skill do?
Write interface copy — microcopy, error messages, empty states, and CTAs. Use when the words are the deliverable. For content structure and ownership, use content-strategy (ux-strategy).
How do I install ux-writing?
Run npx skills add https://github.com/owl-listener/designer-skills --skill ux-writing in your project. The skills CLI detects the agents you use and copies the skill into the right folder. For Claude Code you can also place the skill folder at ~/.claude/skills/ux-writing/ (personal) or .claude/skills/ux-writing/ (project).
Which AI agents can use ux-writing?
Any agent that supports the open Agent Skills format (a folder with a SKILL.md file), including Claude Code, Codex, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Gemini CLI, Windsurf, Cline, OpenCode and more.
Is ux-writing safe to install?
No partner security audit is available yet. Skills can run commands and scripts, so read the SKILL.md and any bundled files before installing.
Who maintains ux-writing?
It is published by owl-listener in owl-listener/designer-skills. It has 2,177 recorded installs.
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