How to Overcome Copywriting Difficulties: Practical Tips for Writers at Every Level

Copywriting often looks deceptively easy from the outside—just a few punchy headlines, a dash of persuasion, and you’re good to go. But anyone who has ever stared at a blinking cursor knows: it’s rarely that simple.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, hitting creative blocks is part of the process.

The blank page.

The message that feels off.

The headline that just won’t click.

These moments of struggle are familiar—and frustrating. But the good news? They’re also surmountable.

Over the years, I’ve collected a few strategies that have helped me (and countless other writers) push through those tough spots. If you’re feeling stuck, these might help you find your way forward too.

1. Clarity Beats Cleverness—Every Time

It’s tempting to chase a witty turn of phrase or a “clever” headline. But cleverness can easily cloud the message. If your reader has to think twice to get the point, you’ve lost them.

Start with clarity.

Focus on what your reader needs to know.

Say it simply, say it clearly—and save the wordplay for later, if at all.

Because clarity always converts better than confusion.

2. Write Badly—On Purpose

The enemy of good writing? The pressure to write it perfectly on the first try.

Instead, write badly. Let it be messy. Ramble. Repeat yourself. Say what you think you want to say, even if it’s clunky.

A bad first draft is better than no draft at all. You can always cut, sharpen, and polish later. But you can’t edit a blank page.

3. Read Your Writing Out Loud

This simple trick is often underestimated.

When you read your copy out loud, you hear where it stumbles. You catch awkward phrasing, unnatural rhythms, and overly formal tone.

Your voice is often a better editor than your eyes.

If it doesn’t sound like something you’d say in a real conversation, it probably won’t resonate with your reader either.

4. Write for a Person, Not a Product

It’s easy to get caught up in features, benefits, and brand messaging. But copywriting isn’t about the product—it’s about the person reading

What are they feeling?

What are they struggling with?

What do they need to hear to believe that this product or service is for them?

The more empathy you bring to your writing, the more effective your copy will be.

Final Thought: Write With Intention

Ultimately, good copy isn’t about volume. It’s about purpose. Every word should serve a function. Every line should lead your reader somewhere meaningful.

So when you’re stuck, return to intention.

Why are you writing this?

What do you want your reader to feel, think, or do next?

Let that guide you through the difficulty.