What is a call to action (CTA) in design?

A call to action (CTA) in design is a prompt that encourages a specific user action. This can take various forms, such as buttons or links that instruct the user to "Buy Now," "Sign Up," or "Learn More." The primary purpose of a CTA is to drive conversions by guiding users toward taking a desired action that aligns with the goals of the design, whether that be completing a purchase, subscribing to a newsletter, or engaging with content.

Effective CTAs are strategically placed within a design to capture attention and motivate users, utilizing persuasive language and compelling visuals to achieve their purpose. By doing so, CTAs not only enhance user experience but also contribute to the effectiveness of marketing strategies by focusing user interaction on specific actions that benefit the business or goal the design serves. This clarity and focus on user engagement are what make CTAs a crucial element in graphic design.