Target: [text and location]. Change: replace "[old copy]" with "[new copy]". Style: [what should match]. Preserve: [elements that must stay unchanged].
Name the target before the change
“Change the date” is unclear if the image contains several dates. “Change the date below the main headline from June 12 to June 19” identifies both the region and result.
Separate wording from appearance
Put exact copy in quotation marks. Then describe the desired lettering, line breaks, size, color, and perspective separately so style instructions are not mistaken for text to render.
List multiple replacements
For a menu or poster, write one old-to-new pair per line. Keep prices, dates, punctuation, and capitalization explicit. Avoid combining a full redesign with a precise copy correction.
Make follow-up requests specific
Instead of “try again,” identify the remaining issue: “The second line should read exactly Free entry” or “Restore the small caption below the price.”
Review checklist
- The target location is clear.
- Replacement wording is complete and quoted.
- Preservation instructions do not contradict the change.
Frequently asked questions
Should I include a font name?
You can, but a font name alone does not guarantee the exact font file will be reproduced. Describe the visible lettering and inspect the result.