SEO Writing: 13 Tips on Writing Blog Posts That Rank on Google

I’ve penned hundreds of blogs as a content marketer, yet I still occasionally make the rookie mistake of considering SEO only after the blog is already complete.

However, I’ve discovered that treating SEO as the bookends of your blog — guiding your writing before you begin and optimizing it afterward — is far more effective.

Whenever I consult my SEO tools before drafting a blog, I gain valuable insights into the questions my audience is asking, how to simplify complex topics, and the structure I should follow. Crafting SEO-friendly content doesn’t have to be dull or robotic.

Read on for tips on seamlessly integrating SEO into your blogs while still creating engaging and valuable content.

Why is SEO Content Writing Important?

Without SEO, your content is less likely to achieve high rankings on search engines. Lower rankings limit your ability to reach your target audience and may even make your content appear less credible.

A 2024 study by First Page Sage reveals that the click-through rate for the top SERP result is 39.8%. This decreases to 18.7% for second place, and by the 10th position, it drops to a mere 1.6%. If you’re aiming for page two? The outlook is even bleaker.

If your site isn’t on page one, it’s unlikely that potential customers will discover it organically. Fewer site visits translate to fewer leads and lost revenue.

Your next option could be paid advertising to drive traffic, but that can be quite costly. Instead, why not invest time in SEO writing? It’s free and can deliver long-term traffic that outlasts the life of a paid campaign.

SEO also addresses some of the biggest challenges marketers face. With thorough SEO research, you can generate new blog ideas, enhance engagement, attract traffic, and create leads.

The Basics of SEO Content Writing

Here are some foundational principles to follow when incorporating SEO into your writing.

Keyword Optimization

Keyword optimization involves strategically using relevant keywords to boost your content’s visibility and ranking. It helps search engines comprehend your content, increasing your chances of appearing in relevant searches.

Research your target audience’s search queries and align them with your blog’s topic. Striking a balance between reader-friendliness and satisfying search engine algorithms is essential.

User Intent

User intent refers to the purpose behind a search query. There are four primary types:

Informational: Seeking information, definitions, or guides.

Navigational: Looking for a specific website or brand.

Transactional: Prepared to take action, such as making a purchase.

Commercial: Researching with the intent to buy later.

Understanding user intent enables you to create content that resonates with what people are searching for.

Readability

SEO is not just about keyword placement — it’s also about how the content is crafted. Good readability means finding a balance between SEO optimization and engaging, easy-to-understand content.

Consider user experience, utilize clear language, and make your content scannable with headings.

Historical Optimization

An evergreen blog post is never truly finished. Regularly update older posts with fresh information, updated keywords, and improved readability to keep them relevant in search rankings.

Start with Keyword Research

Keyword research helps you pinpoint what your audience is searching for, allowing you to cut through the noise. Use tools like Ahrefs, SE Ranking, and Google Keyword Planner to uncover popular queries.

Use Headings to Your Benefit

Headings (H1, H2, etc.) assist search engines in understanding your content and breaking down subtopics within your post. Incorporate high-intent keywords into your subheadings for better SERP ranking.

Optimize for Featured Snippets

Featured snippets offer quick answers to search queries. To capture these, provide concise answers and utilize bullet points or numbered lists.

Write for Humans, Not Search Engines

Quality content should cater to your audience’s needs, not just search algorithms. Write thorough, scannable content with well-organized subheadings and visuals.

Optimize Your Title

Your title should be compelling and include your main keyword. Consider incorporating numbers, offers, or teasers to make it stand out.

Include Keywords in Your Meta Description

Meta descriptions help Google determine search rankings. Write a brief, compelling summary featuring one to two keywords.

Resist Keyword Stuffing

Use keywords naturally. Overstuffing makes your content difficult to read and signals to Google that it may not be helpful.

Link to High-Authority Websites

Linking to credible sources demonstrates to both search engines and readers that you’ve conducted your research, enhancing the trustworthiness of your post.

Aim for Scannable, Longer Posts

Longer posts (2,100–2,400 words) generally perform better in search rankings. Break content into short, scannable sections using bullet points for easy readability.

Link to Other Posts on Your Site

Internal links help search engines create an accurate site map and encourage visitors to explore more of your content, boosting engagement.

Avoid AI-Generated Blogs

While AI can assist with brainstorming and SEO checks, it’s not advanced enough to replace human writing. Use AI as a tool, but always add a personal touch to engage your audience.

Feature an FAQ Section

Including an FAQ section can help capture direct answers to common search queries and increase your chances of appearing in Google’s “Quick Answers.”

For more expert tips and comprehensive guidance on SEO content writing, visit BlogReach. You’ll find valuable resources to enhance your blog’s visibility and improve its rankings on search engines!