Web Text Tips for Writing, Editing, and Styling
TL;DR:
- Write web content that's easy to read with short paragraphs and clear messaging
- Edit ruthlessly and organize content with headings and logical structure
- Use Squarespace's text styling tools to choose fonts and adjust formatting
- Add pull quotes to highlight key points and break up long sections
- Keep text readable across all devices for better user experience
Web text works differently than print. Your visitors scan rather than read every word, so your content needs to work harder to grab attention and communicate clearly.
Writing for Web Audiences
Good web writing starts with knowing your audience will skim your content. Break everything into short paragraphs – ideally two to three sentences maximum. Use bullet points when you're listing information, and lead with your main point rather than building up to it.
Your opening paragraph should tell visitors exactly what they'll learn. Don't make them guess why they should keep reading.
Avoid industry jargon unless you're writing for experts. When you must use technical terms, explain them briefly or link to definitions. Remember that many visitors will land on your page from search engines without context about your business.
Editing and Organizing Content
Edit with fresh eyes. Read your content aloud or use text-to-speech software to catch awkward phrasing. Look for sentences that run too long or ideas that don't connect logically.
Structure your content with clear headings. This helps visitors scan for what they need and improves your search engine visibility. Group related information together and use subheadings to break up long sections.
Squarespace's text editor lets you preview changes as you make them. Use this to check how your content looks on different screen sizes, especially mobile devices where long paragraphs become harder to read.
Styling Text in Squarespace
Squarespace 7.1 gives you extensive text styling options within each text block. You can change fonts, adjust sizes, and modify colors without touching any code.
Choose fonts that match your brand but prioritize readability. Decorative fonts work well for headings but can become difficult to read in body text. Stick to two or three fonts maximum across your site to maintain a professional look.
Use text formatting strategically. Bold text draws attention to key points, but too much bold text loses its impact. Italics work well for emphasis or to set apart quotes and testimonials.
Pull quotes help break up long text sections and highlight important information. In Squarespace, you can create these using quote blocks or by styling text within regular text blocks.
Common Text Styling Mistakes
Don't use too many font sizes on one page. This creates visual chaos and makes your content harder to follow. Stick to a clear hierarchy with distinct sizes for headings, subheadings, and body text.
Avoid using color as the only way to convey important information. Some visitors may have color vision difficulties, and text color might not display consistently across all devices.
Center-aligned text works for headlines and short quotes, but becomes difficult to read in longer paragraphs. Left-aligned text provides a consistent starting point for each line, making it easier to scan.
FAQs
Can I customize fonts and text sizes on Squarespace?
Yes, Squarespace 7.1 provides extensive styling options within text blocks. You can change fonts, adjust sizes, and modify colors directly in the editor.
How do I add a pull quote on Squarespace?
Use a quote block to make text stand out from your regular content. You can also style text within regular text blocks using the formatting options.
Is there a limit on how much text I can add to a Squarespace page?
There's no strict limit, but pages with too much text can become overwhelming. Break long content into multiple pages or use accordions to let visitors choose what to read.
Should I use the same fonts throughout my website?
Yes, consistency helps create a professional appearance. Use two to three fonts maximum – typically one for headings and one for body text.
Jargon Buster
Text Block: Squarespace's main tool for adding and formatting text content on your pages.
Pull Quote: A highlighted excerpt from your main text, styled to stand out and draw attention to key points.
Text Hierarchy: The visual system of different text sizes and styles that helps visitors understand the structure of your content.
Responsive Text: Text that automatically adjusts its size and layout based on the visitor's device screen size.
Wrap-up
Good web text combines clear writing with smart formatting. Focus on your visitor's needs first, then use Squarespace's styling tools to make your content easy to scan and visually appealing. Remember that simple, well-organized content almost always outperforms complex designs that sacrifice readability.
The most important thing is testing how your text looks and reads on different devices. What works on your desktop might need adjustment for mobile visitors.
Join Pixelhaze Academy to learn more advanced content strategies and get feedback on your website text.