CTA clarity
Why most buttons say the wrong thing
The formula: **verb + what they get + qualifier.**
| Weak | Why it fails | Strong |
| ----------- | ------------------ | ----------------------------- |
| Get started | Started on what? | Start syncing free |
| Learn more | Passive | See how it works |
| Sign up | Describes the form | Create your workspace |
| Try it now | No qualifier | Try it free, no card required |
| Submit | Bureaucratic | Send my request |
| Click here | Never acceptable | Download the guide |
## The outcome test
Cover the page. Read only the button. Could it appear on any site unchanged?
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## Outcome verbs
| Context | Verbs |
| -------------- | ----------------------- |
| Product entry | Start, Create, Build |
| Demos | See, Watch, Preview |
| Content offers | Download, Get, Claim |
| Calls | Book, Schedule, Reserve |
| Completion | Send, Share, Publish |
Avoid form mechanics: _Submit, Continue, Proceed, Confirm._
## Add a qualifier
- "Try it" becomes "Try it free."
- "Start your trial" becomes "Start your trial, no card required."
- "Create your workspace" becomes "Create your workspace in 5 minutes."
Best qualifiers: _free, in 5 minutes, no card required, no install, cancel anytime._
## Primary vs. secondary
One primary CTA. Zero or one secondary. The primary dominates visually at a **3:1 ratio**.
Watch for verbless CTAs. "Free trial" has no verb. "Start your free trial" gives direction.
## The mismatch trap
- Page promise: _Cut your AWS bill in half._
- CTA: _See your savings estimate free._