Table of Contents
- Introduction
- SEO Checklist for Blog Writing
- Keyword Research
- On-Page SEO
- Content Quality
- Technical SEO
- Off-Page SEO
- Analytics & Monitoring
- AI SEO Prompt: Turn AI into Your Copywriting Assistant
- Prompt Template
- Example Output
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the backbone of successful blog writing. This guide provides a step-by-step checklist to ensure your content ranks high on search engines and engages readers. Plus, unlock a powerful AI prompt to supercharge your copywriting process!
2. SEO Checklist for Blog Writing
Keyword Research
- Use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Google Keyword Planner.
- Target long-tail keywords (e.g., “best running shoes for flat feet”).
- Analyze competitor keywords.
- Align keywords with search intent (informational, commercial, transactional).
- Map primary and secondary keywords to blog sections.
On-Page SEO
- Include the primary keyword in the title tag (under 60 characters).
- Write a meta description (150–160 characters) with keywords.
- Optimize URL structure (e.g., /blog/seo-checklist-2023).
- Use H1 for the title, H2/H3 for subheadings, and keywords in headers.
- Maintain keyword density of 1–2%.
- Add internal links to related content.
- Optimize images with alt text and compressed file sizes.
- Ensure mobile responsiveness.
- Implement schema markup for rich snippets.
Content Quality
- Write original, plagiarism-free content.
- Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and Hemingway App for readability.
- Aim for 1,500+ words for in-depth coverage.
- Include visuals (images, videos, infographics).
- Add clear CTAs (e.g., “Subscribe for updates”).
- Update old posts with fresh data/keywords.
- Demonstrate E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
Technical SEO
- Improve page speed (target Google PageSpeed score >90).
- Submit XML sitemap to Google Search Console.
- Check robots.txt for crawlability.
- Use canonical tags to avoid duplicate content.
- Ensure SSL certification (HTTPS).
- Fix broken links with tools like Screaming Frog.
Off-Page SEO
- Build backlinks via guest posts, forums, or outreach.
- Share content on social media and niche communities.
- Submit to reputable directories (e.g., Medium, LinkedIn Articles).
- Collaborate with influencers for brand mentions.
Analytics & Monitoring
- Track traffic with Google Analytics.
- Monitor rankings via Google Search Console.
- Use A/B testing for headlines/CTAs.
- Audit content quarterly.
3. AI SEO Prompt: Turn AI into Your Copywriting Assistant
Prompt Template
Act as a professional SEO copywriter. Write a **2,600-word, in-depth blog post** about [TOPIC] targeting [AUDIENCE].
- **Primary Keyword:** [KEYWORD]
- **Secondary Keywords:** [KEYWORD 1, KEYWORD 2, KEYWORD 3]
- **Structure:**
- Use H1 for the title, H2 for main sections, and H3/H4 for subtopics.
- Include an introduction, 5–7 detailed sections, a FAQ, and a conclusion.
- Add bullet points, numbered lists, and data tables where relevant.
- Incorporate at least 3 internal links to [YOUR DOMAIN] posts.
- Suggest 2 external links to authoritative sources (e.g., .gov, .edu).
- **Readability:**
- Keep paragraphs under 4 lines.
- Use a [FRIENDLY/PROFESSIONAL] tone.
- Avoid jargon; explain complex terms.
- **SEO Requirements:**
- Meta description: 150 characters with the primary keyword.
- PostExcerptp: 200 characters with the primary keyword.
- Keyword density: 1–2% (natural placement).
- Add alt text for images (include keywords).
- **Unique Value:**
- Include case studies, statistics, or expert quotes.
- Add a "Pro Tip" box for actionable advice.
- **CTA:** End with a strong CTA (e.g., "Download our free [RESOURCE]").
- **Update Note:** Add a disclaimer to refresh the post in 6 months.
Example Output for a 2,600-Word Article
Topic: “How to Start a Sustainable Fashion Brand in 2025”
AI-Generated Outline:
- H1: How to Start a Sustainable Fashion Brand (2025 Guide)
- H2: Why Sustainable Fashion Matters in 2025
- H3: Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion (Include Stats)
- H3: Consumer Demand for Ethical Brands (Add Survey Data)
- H2: Step-by-Step Process to Launch Your Brand
- H3: Step 1: Define Your Mission and Values
- H3: Step 2: Source Eco-Friendly Materials
- H4: List of Sustainable Fabric Suppliers (Table)
- H3: Step 3: Ethical Manufacturing Partners
- H2: Marketing Your Sustainable Brand
- H3: SEO Strategies for Eco-Friendly Brands
- H3: Leverage Social Media (Instagram, TikTok)
- H2: Case Study: How [Brand X] Grew 300% in 2 Years
- H2: Common Challenges and Solutions
- H3: Cost vs. Sustainability Balance
- H3: Certifications (e.g., GOTS, Fair Trade)
- H2: FAQ Section
- “How much does it cost to start a sustainable brand?”
- “Is sustainable fashion profitable?”
- CTA: “Download our free Sustainable Fashion Business Plan Template”
Why 2,600 Words?
- Google prioritizes long-form, comprehensive content that fully addresses user intent.
- Allows room for keyword variations, subtopics, and data-driven insights.
- Increases dwell time and reduces bounce rate (signals quality to search engines).