Content writing proposal: Free template

Content writing proposal: Free template

Customize this free content writing proposal with Cobrief

Open this free content writing proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your offer, the client’s goals, and the type of content required. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.

Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.

This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching blog writing, SEO articles, website copy, newsletters, or content retainers. Whether you’re a freelancer, agency, or in-house team member, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.

What is a content writing proposal?

A content writing proposal is a document that outlines your writing services, deliverables, pricing, and process for a specific content project or retainer. It’s used to show prospective clients what they’ll get, how long it will take, and how your writing supports their business goals.

This type of proposal is often shared after an inquiry, sales call, or brief. It helps clarify what kind of content you’ll create, how often, and at what cost — all before the project begins.

A good content writing proposal helps you:

  • Align on the content type, volume, tone, and format.
  • Set expectations on timelines, reviews, and collaboration.
  • Showcase your writing process and approach.
  • Reduce back-and-forth and streamline onboarding.

If you offer writing services for blogs, SEO, email, or websites, this is the right kind of proposal to use.

Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal

Cobrief makes it easy to customize and send a professional content proposal with built-in AI to help you refine your message.

  • Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No setup or formatting required — just click and start customizing.
  • Rewrite sections with AI: Highlight any sentence and instantly simplify, expand, or adjust tone.
  • Run a one-click AI review: Spot vague language, tighten explanations, and improve overall clarity with helpful AI suggestions.
  • Apply AI suggestions instantly: Review and accept individual AI suggestions, or apply all improvements across the proposal in one click.
  • Share or export instantly: Send your proposal directly from Cobrief or download a polished PDF or DOCX version for email or upload.

You get a faster, smarter way to create a high-quality proposal — without second-guessing your copy.

When to use this proposal

Use this content writing proposal when:

  • Pitching ongoing blog or SEO article packages: Clarify the number of posts, word counts, and delivery cadence.
  • Responding to a website copywriting brief: Outline the number of pages, tone, and timeline.
  • Quoting email newsletter or social media copy: Define your process, goals, and collaboration needs.
  • Proposing a content retainer: Break down monthly services, strategy input, and flexibility options.

This template is perfect when you want to present your offer clearly and make it easy for the client to move forward.

What to include in a content writing proposal

This proposal template walks your client through everything they need to understand your writing services. Use it like this:

  • Executive summary: Frame your services in terms of client value — more traffic, better conversions, clearer messaging — not just writing for writing’s sake.
  • Scope of work: Be specific about what’s included — how many pieces, what formats (e.g., blog, web, case study), word count ranges, research, revisions, or CMS uploads. Avoid catch-all phrases like “content support.”
  • Timeline: Share your writing and delivery process, including turnaround time, revision windows, and feedback cycles.
  • Pricing: Use flat fees, per-piece rates, or monthly retainers. Include what’s covered — number of revisions, edits, or strategy support. Transparency builds trust.
  • Terms and conditions: Set expectations on payment, cancellation, feedback timelines, and content ownership. Keep the language clear and client-friendly.
  • Next steps: Give the client a clear action like “Reply to approve” or “Click to confirm and schedule kickoff.”

How to write an effective content writing proposal

A strong proposal helps the client picture how working with you will solve their content challenges. Use these tips to write with impact:

  • Lead with their outcomes: Focus on what the writing will achieve — not just what you’ll deliver.
  • Be crystal clear on deliverables: Define what’s included, what’s not, and how feedback will work.
  • Avoid buzzwords: Say “SEO-optimized blog post with 2 rounds of edits” instead of “premium writing services.”
  • Show your process: Give the client confidence in how you work — from briefs to revisions.
  • Keep it readable: Use simple language, clean formatting, and short paragraphs to aid scanning.
  • End with a CTA: Make it easy for the client to take the next step without needing to follow up with questions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I reuse this proposal for different content types?

Yes — just adjust the deliverables and timeline to suit blog posts, web copy, emails, or other formats.

Does this work for one-off projects and retainers?

Absolutely — you can tailor the template to short-term or monthly content agreements.

Can I include writing samples or portfolio links?

Yes — you can drop links directly into the proposal or link to your website or portfolio.

Is this a legal agreement?

No — this is a proposal, not a contract. You can attach a service agreement separately if needed.

Can I export this proposal as a PDF?

Yes — after editing, you can instantly download a clean PDF or DOCX version.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.