Do you think copywriting is a skill people can learn, or is it a natural gift?

Yes, having a natural flair and interest in creative writing can always help, but I think with practice, one can build the muscle of writing good copies.

If you're a beginner or someone who wishes to improve writing, here are a few things you can try:

Learn to observe life: There are many stories lying around all of us. Nature, people, places – everyone has something to say. Learn to observe and comprehend it. You don't have to use it in your work right away, but these stories will someday help you write some of your finest lines. Call it inspiration, maybe.

Read, read, read: My mentor once told me if you ever want to become a good writer, read for 2 hours every single day. While I was never able to achieve this target every single day, this will surely help you. You can start with any content of your choice. It could be books, newspapers, magazines. I know that many people share a list of good books everyone must read for professional/personal growth. And while this list does include a brilliant collection, it isn't necessary to start your journey with only those books. Unless you're an avid reader, start by the genre/writers of your choice. And eventually, move to books that you find a little complex. Always remember, 'The more you'll feed your mind, the better it will thrive.'

Btw, Here are a few books on copywriting in case you wish to refer to them:

1. Ogilvy on Advertising: by David Ogilvy

2. Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This: The Classic Guide to Creating Great Ads, by Luke Sullivan

3. Everybody Writes: Your Go-To Guide to Creating Ridiculously Good Content, by Ann Handley

4. 'Ca$hvertising: How to Use More than 100 Secrets of Ad-Agency Psychology to Make Big Money Selling Anything' by Drew Eric Whitman ]

Follow the work of other copywriters: There is nothing better than learning directly from the ones who are doing the exact same job you're trying to master. See their style, understand their process, if needed, ask them questions. You can reflect on their mistakes, too. But this will surely give your efforts the right direction.

Write (a lot): A writer can never retire as a student. There is always room for improvement, and there is always a world left to explore, write about :). So keep practicing. Journaling is a slightly easy way to make a habit of writing every day. You can also try different prompts on occasions and have your friends review it for you.

I have suggested these steps from the recommendations I have received from my mentors over the last few years, and some from my own experience, too. However, every journey is different, and it might not be that relevant for you. I wish you luck though, hope you have a wonderful journey exploring your art :)