Skip to content
Layout 1 min read

How to design a hero section.

The hero is the few seconds you get before a visitor decides to stay or leave. Here's what it needs — and what to leave out.

The short answer

What is a hero section?

The hero is the first screen of a page — the area visible before scrolling. Its only job is to tell visitors, in a few seconds, what you offer and what to do next.

The essentials

What should a hero section include?

  • A headline — the value you offer, in plain words.
  • A supporting line — one sentence of detail or proof.
  • One primary CTA — the single most important action.
  • A supporting visual — a product shot or image that shows, not decorates.

In that priority order. Everything else is optional.

The headline

How long should the headline be?

Short and specific — usually 5 to 10 words. Lead with the benefit to the visitor, not a clever tagline. "Generate a brand-coherent website from one prompt" beats "Reimagine your workflow."

Conversion

What makes a hero convert?

Clarity and focus. A visitor should understand what you do and what to click within about five seconds. One primary action, strong contrast on the CTA, and a headline about them — not you — does more than any animation.

Getting it right

Common hero mistakes (and an easier path)

The usual misses: a vague headline, two or three competing buttons, a stock image that says nothing, and text crammed against the edges. Each one quietly costs attention. Composing a hero with a clear headline, one CTA, and proper hierarchy on the first try is exactly what SketchXFlow does when it generates a page — and you can refine it on a real canvas without breaking the brand.

Generate a hero that converts →

FAQ

Frequently asked

What should a hero section include?

A clear headline stating your value, a one-line supporting sentence, one primary call to action, and a supporting visual — in that priority order.

How long should a hero headline be?

Usually 5–10 words. Keep it specific and benefit-led rather than clever, so visitors instantly understand what you offer.

Should a hero have one CTA or several?

One primary CTA. A secondary link is fine, but only one button should be visually dominant so you don't split the visitor's attention.

Free site audit

See how your current site does

Paste your address for a free score out of 100 and the specific problems on your first screen. No sign-up.

One page · the first screen · design, contrast, wording

Printed large on the certificate, with the site's address under it. Plain text only.

Free · no sign-up · one page, above the fold

This is the simple audit. Advanced audits check up to 20 pages, pages behind a login, and flows walked by AI — with an account on Pro.

Sign in for advanced audits