Move on to dummy text
While text blocks represent where content will appear using shapes or squiggles, dummy text takes this a step further by simulating actual words. Lorem ipsum and similar placeholder text use modified Latin words that mimic the visual rhythm of real sentences. This approach shows how text will actually look and flow within the layout.
Dummy text helps teams evaluate line breaks, paragraph spacing, and how words interact with surrounding elements. Unlike abstract text blocks, dummy text reveals whether a paragraph feels too dense or a text area appears too empty. Stakeholders can better assess the reading experience even without the finalized copy.
The downside is that dummy text lacks real-world accuracy. Lorem ipsum cannot reveal if a headline is too long for its container or if microcopy needs adjustment. Projects relying on dummy text for too long often face layout changes once real content arrives. Transitioning to realistic text as early as possible reduces these revision cycles.
Pro Tip: If real content is unavailable, borrow text of similar length and tone from competitor products as temporary placeholders.
