CertifiedCopywriting.com

Yes, there is a very clear difference.

SEO copywriting requires another layer of awareness when writing copy. The writer must not only be aware of basic grammar, sentence structure and flow, but how to imbed keywords into the content without making them noticeable. The reader must feel like he/she is just reading a regular article, not one that is infused with four or five distinct keywords at a proper keyword density.

Its basically a puzzle. The writer must figure out a way to communicate effectively, while still adhereing to the keywords. So, for example: If we are writing a real estate article for a Chicago Realtor, and he wants the keywords: “Chicago realty,” and “home in Chicago.” 

Regular copywriting might look like this:

“John Doe is an experienced real estate professional, with an intimate knowledge of the Windy City. He is a life-long resident of Chicago, and has a unique insight into the local real estate market to help you find the home of your dreams.”

SEO Copywriting might look like this: (remember the keywords - Chicago Realty and Home in Chicago)

“John Doe has over thirty years of exprience in the Chicago realty market, and an initmate knowledge of the city, its people and its amenities. He is a life-long resident of the Windy City, and has a unique insight into the local real estate market to help you find the perfect home in Chicago.”

See the difference? Sometimes its easy, but sometimes it is very hard, especially depending on the length of the keyword or keyphrase.

One note - Windy City could also be considered a keyword. However, it came out organically in the copywriting. This happens often. However, to get the attention of the search engines, clients need specific SEO copywriting.