Some people think SEO writing and copywriting are basically the same. After all, both involve writing words for the internet, right?
Spoiler alert; they’re not. These two have totally different purposes — and knowing which one to use can be the difference between getting clicks or getting ignored.
In this guide, we’ll break down SEO writing vs copywriting in plain terms, show you where each one fits, and help you figure out which type of writing you need.
SEO Writing and Copywriting: Not the Same Thing
Let’s set the record straight.
SEO writing is all about ranking on search engines. The goal? Get your content in front of people searching for answers.
Copywriting, on the other hand, is built for conversion. You want someone to take action: click, sign up, buy.
So while SEO writing focuses on visibility, copywriting is about persuasion.
What Is SEO Writing?
SEO writing is the practice of creating content that helps pages rank in Google (and other search engines). It’s about:
- Targeting the right keywords
- Matching search intent
- Structuring content with proper headers and internal links
- Writing for readability and relevance
You’ll see SEO writing in:
- Blog articles
- Product or category pages
- Informational landing pages
Example📝: A blog post titled “How to Choose Running Shoes” that targets keywords like “best running shoes for beginners” and includes internal links to relevant product pages.
What Is Copywriting?
Copywriting is writing that convinces someone to act. It’s used in places where the reader is just one step away from a decision.
Good copywriting leans on:
- Benefits-first messaging
- Strong call-to-actions (CTAs)
- Emotional triggers
- Concise, punchy lines
You’ll find copywriting in:
- Facebook or Google ads
- Sales landing pages
- Email marketing sequences
Example📝: A landing page for a fitness app that says, “Burn calories, not time. Start your free trial today.”
SEO Writing vs Copywriting: Key Differences
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | SEO Writing | Copywriting |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Rank on search engines | Drive conversions or sales |
| Tone | Informative, helpful | Persuasive, benefit-focused |
| Where it’s used | Blogs, product pages | Ads, landing pages, emails |
| Metrics | Traffic, time on page, bounce rate | CTR, conversions, leads |
| CTA usage | Subtle or indirect | Strong, direct |
| Keyword focus | High | Low (may not need keywords) |
When Should You Use SEO Writing vs Copywriting?
Use SEO writing when:
- You want organic traffic from Google
- You’re building a content hub or blog
- You need to explain a topic in-depth
Use copywriting when:
- You’re launching a product or promotion
- You’re running paid ads
- You want immediate actions (sign-ups, purchases)
Pro tip💡: The best performing websites use both. For example, your blog brings in traffic with SEO writing, while your product pages convert visitors with strong copywriting.
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Right Type of Writing
Now that you know the difference between SEO writing and copywriting, it’s easier to choose the right strategy for your project.
Both are powerful — but they serve different purposes. And the best-performing brands? They use both smartly across blogs, landing pages, and ads.
If you’re serious about improving your content game, we’ve got more where this came from.
👉 Head to our SEO Writing Guide
👉 Or follow Content Writer MY for practical tips, real-world strategies, and insider advice from content writing specialists who live and breathe search.
Pingback: How to Structure SEO Blog Posts That Rank