Welcome to the 47th issue of Write On!

The newsletter that eats Kit Kats without breaking them apart.

In today’s issue I’ll be covering:

• The all-in-one AI workspace for writers

• Persuading readers with the “But You Are Free” technique:

• Top finds this week, including the best story you’ll read all week.

Estimated read time: 2 minutes 18 seconds

Collaborative AI for writers:

Strut combines the tools you need to run your entire writing process in one place. Capture projects, notes, drafts, and more in simple workspaces powered by AI. It's the only AI that works alongside writers like you — so you can create your best work, more often. The best part? Strut is 100% free!

Persuading readers with the “But You Are Free” technique:

The "But You Are Free" (BYAF) technique is a persuasive technique that involves making a request but also acknowledging the recipient's freedom to choose.

This is particularly effective in copywriting because it reduces resistance by emphasizing the reader's autonomy and control.

Here's how you can incorporate the BYAF technique into your copywriting:

1. Make your request clear:

• Start by clearly stating what action you want the reader to take.

• This could be anything:

  • Signing up for a newsletter

  • Downloading a guide

  • Making a purchase

  • etc.

• Ensure the request is direct and to the point.

2. Acknowledge the reader's autonomy:

• After making your request, immediately follow it with a phrase recognizing the reader's freedom to choose.

• Use phrases like:

  • “But you are free to choose”

  • “It’s completely up to you”

  • “The decision is yours”

• This acknowledgment respects the reader’s autonomy, making them feel more in control.

3. Explain benefits without pressure:

• Before or after the BYAF statement, outline the benefits of taking the action.

• Do this in a way that doesn't exert pressure but informs the reader.

• Focus on how taking action can benefit them rather than what they will miss out on.

4. Use a friendly and approachable tone:

• The tone of your copy should be friendly and non-confrontational.

• This complements the BYAF technique by creating a more relaxed and open atmosphere.

5. Combine with social proof:

• Mention how others have benefited from taking the action, but reinforce that the choice remains with the reader.

• This combination of social proof and autonomy can be very persuasive.

6. Keep it brief:

• The BYAF technique works best when it's concise.

• Avoid long-winded explanations after the “you are free” statement, as it can dilute the effect.

Example:

Original Request: "Join my private newsletter discord group to get inside tips on how to grow your newsletter."

With BYAF Technique: "Join my private newsletter discord group to get inside tips on how to grow your newsletter. It’s completely free and you can join at any time. Scale and monetize your newsletter business with us here."

P.S. That example about the newsletter discord group is real. If you want to grow your newsletter business, come join our small community here: https://discord.gg/8uTydV7KsV

Top Finds This Week:

📖 Storytelling: 3 storytelling ingredients you need to tell a great story: (link)

💪 Writing Exercise: Practice writing with more confidence like this: (link)

🖼 Frameworks: When copywriting, focus on the big 4: (link)

📜 Principles: The best CTAs you’ll ever see tick off these 6 boxes: (link)

✍️ Write On: This is peak storytelling to me — Douglas Adams' cookie story: (link)

That’s all for this week! See you next Wednesday.

Cheers,

Joe

P.S. Meme for your thoughts?

A WRITE ON REVIEW: