How to Write Product Descriptions That Actually Sell

Your product pages are more than a place to list features; they are your opportunity to convince people to buy. In the world of online shopping, strong product descriptions can make the difference between someone adding to their basket or leaving your site.

When written well, product descriptions do far more than describe what you sell. They tell a story, build trust and help customers picture themselves using your product. In simple terms, they sell the experience, not just the item.

Let’s look at how to write product descriptions that work for your e-commerce brand, improve SEO, and help you turn browsers into buyers.

Why Product Descriptions Matter

When people shop online, they cannot touch, test or try your products. Your words have to do that job for them.

A good product description explains what a product is, but a great one shows what it does for the customer. It connects on a personal level and helps them imagine how it fits into their life.

If your copy feels vague or dull, people lose interest quickly. When your description is clear, confident and human, it builds trust, and that is what leads to sales.

Understand What Motivates Your Customer

The most persuasive product descriptions focus on your customer’s needs, not only your product’s features.

Ask yourself what problem the product solves, how it makes life better or easier, and what feelings it might create. For example, instead of saying “lightweight raincoat”, you could write “Stay dry without the bulk, ideal for days when the weather can’t make up its mind.”

Writing with empathy makes your e-commerce brand sound genuine and relatable.

Know Who You’re Talking To

Every product has an ideal buyer. Before you start writing, picture who that person is. Think about what they value, how they speak and what they expect.

If you are selling to practical shoppers, focus on clarity and usefulness. If your customers are more style-conscious, pay attention to tone and detail. A friendly, informal voice might suit one brand, while a more polished tone might suit another. Consistency is what matters most, because customers should recognise your voice wherever they find you online.

Start Strong With a Clear Hook

The first line of your description should grab attention straight away. Most people skim when they are online shopping, so start with a short, engaging sentence that highlights the main benefit.

For example:

Tired of bulky bottles that never fit in your bag? Meet the slim, lightweight water bottle made for life on the go.

Once you have their attention, explain what makes your product different and why it is worth buying.

Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features

Features describe the product. Benefits explain why those features matter.

Instead of listing materials or measurements first, talk about how they improve the customer’s experience. For example, “Soft cotton blend” could become “Soft cotton blend that keeps you cool and comfortable all day.” Or “Adjustable strap” could become “An adjustable strap that fits perfectly, wherever you go.”

Good product descriptions make readers think, that’s exactly what I need.

Keep It Simple and Easy to Read

Online shoppers want information quickly. Long paragraphs filled with complicated language can put them off.

Keep your product descriptions clear and natural. Use short sentences and everyday language, and break the copy into small sections so it is easy to scan. Make sure it looks good on mobile as well as desktop. If it is simple to read, it is simple to buy.

Tell a Story People Can Picture

Storytelling helps customers imagine owning your product. Describe the feeling, not just the function.

For example:

Wrap yourself in comfort after a long day. This blanket is soft, breathable and made for nights when you just want to switch off.

When people can picture the experience, they are more likely to remember your product and make a purchase.

Optimise for SEO Without Losing the Human Touch

Your product descriptions should appeal to both search engines and real people.

Use natural language and include relevant keywords such as your product name, key features and the phrases people actually search for during online shopping. Avoid repeating the same words too often, as it makes your copy sound forced.

Write a unique description for each product. This helps your site perform better in search results and gives every item its own personality.

Use Social Proof to Build Trust

Most shoppers read reviews before buying. Including customer feedback, testimonials or ratings within your product descriptions helps reduce doubt and build confidence.

If your e-commerce brand has photos or quotes from real customers, add them to your product pages. People trust other customers more than sales messages, so let their words support your own.

Test and Improve Over Time

Writing effective product descriptions is an ongoing process. Keep testing and improving them as you learn what works.

You could try different headlines or phrases to see which ones lead to more sales, or track how long people stay on each page. Even small wording changes can make a noticeable difference to results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple errors can hold your product descriptions back. Avoid vague terms like “high quality” or “great value”, copying manufacturer text, writing long unbroken paragraphs or ignoring mobile formatting.

The best product descriptions are clear, specific and easy to read. They help customers understand what they are buying and why it is worth it.

Turning Words Into Sales

The goal of any product description is simple: help customers feel confident about buying. Write with empathy, keep your structure clear and speak directly to your audience.

Good copy does more than describe what you sell; it brings your brand to life and makes online shopping more enjoyable.

At BAW Creative, we help businesses create websites and content that perform. When your design, words and marketing work together, you not only attract attention but also turn it into results.