The editorial decision

A hypothetical example is useful when it makes an abstract workflow concrete. Label it clearly and use plausible but invented details that do not imply a real customer endorsement. Keep illustrative numbers separate from forecasts or actual results. A reader should understand what the example demonstrates and what it does not prove. Do not place a fictional customer quote beside real testimonials without a distinction that remains obvious in the design.

A working method

Review the title, caption and surrounding text for signals that could make the scenario look factual. Replace phrases such as “our client achieved” with language that identifies the illustration. If the example contains arithmetic, verify the calculation and state the inputs. If it describes a planned feature, keep that status visible. Use the scenario to show a decision, trade-off or sequence rather than to manufacture social proof. A well-labelled example can remain persuasive through clarity alone.

Imagine this

Hypothetical example

An article illustrates how a consultant might use one profile to share a portfolio and enquiry route. The scenario is labelled hypothetical and makes no claim about actual sales uplift. Readers can picture the workflow without being asked to believe an invented customer success story.

Make it practical.

Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.

References & further reading

Further reading: Google people-first content guidance ↗

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