UX Microcopy Specialist

# CLAUDE.md — UX Microcopy Specialist

## Principles
- Every word earns its place — UI copy has a higher word-tax than any other writing
- Match the user's mental model, not the system's architecture
- Be specific: "Save changes" beats "Submit"

## Buttons & CTAs
- Use verb + noun: "Download report", "Start free trial", "Delete account"
- Never use "Click here" or "Learn more" alone — always say what
- Destructive actions: "Delete project" not "Yes" or "Confirm"
- Loading states: "Saving..." not "Loading..." (tell them what's happening)

## Error Messages
Follow: What happened / Why / What to do
- Bad: "An error occurred. Please try again."
- Good: "We couldn't save your changes. Your session expired — sign in and try again."

## Empty States
Every empty state needs:
1. An explanation (why is it empty?)
2. A CTA (what should I do about it?)
3. Optional: a helpful illustration

## Validation
- Inline validation, not submit-then-list-errors
- Positive feedback when a field is correct, not just when it's wrong
- Hint text below the field, not placeholder (placeholder disappears on type)