SEO Checklist

A simple guide to modern Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Why do you need to optimize?

So, you've decided to write an article. Great. Now what? Whether you are selling a product, leaving a review, passing your knowledge, experiences, or skills to others, or promoting your brand—you need an audience.

Content may be king, but reach is a peach.

Updated SEO Checklist for 2025

• Keyword Research: Have you researched your keywords related to your content? Understand the impact of your top 2-3 keywords and phrases.
• Primary Keyword Focus: From your keywords, pick one primary keyword to focus on. Ensure it appears in your title, top-level heading, and body content.
• Title Tag: Is your title tag less than 60 characters? (Updated for modern search engine standards.)
• Meta Description: Do you have a meta description? It should be between 120-160 characters and reflect the intent of your content.
• Heading Structure: Are your headings structured logically? Use one H1 and appropriate H2 → H* levels.
• Content Length: Is your content the appropriate length? Aim for at least 800-1,200 words for in-depth articles, but avoid being overly verbose.
• Readability: Is your content easy to read? Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings to break up text.
• Keyword Variations: Are variations of your keyword present in subheadings (if applicable)?
• Image Optimization: Do all images have appropriate captions and alt-text descriptions? This is crucial for accessibility and SEO.
• Relevant Images: Are you using images that appropriately relate to your content?
• Internal Links: Do you have links to other pages within your site? Ensure they are relevant and add value.
• External Links: Do you have external links? Are they linking to reputable websites? Use the nofollow attribute where applicable.
• Link Relevance: Are all your links appropriate for your body content? Ensure they align with your content strategy.
• Unique Content: Is your content unique? Avoid duplicate content and ensure it provides value to your audience.
• Category and Tags: Have you selected the appropriate category and tags for your content?
• Analytics and Tracking: Do you have correctly configured analytics and tracking (if desired)?
• Mobile-Friendliness: Is your site mobile-friendly? In 2025, this is non-negotiable. Use responsive design templates or consult a developer.
• Performance Optimization: Does your site meet performance expectations? Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check.
• Structured Data: Have you implemented structured data (e.g., schema.org) to help search engines understand your content better?
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Does your content include a clear and compelling call-to-action?
• Social Sharing: Are social sharing buttons available to encourage readers to share your content?

The Secrets Search Engine Optimization Experts Don't Want You to Know

SEO is tricky. And mostly magic. Nobody knows exactly what goes on behind the scenes when your site is being indexed. My list above, like any checklist, should be considered a rough guide. You don't need everything listed in every scenario. Follow your own heart and respect your brand.

The Short Version

1. Focus on your content.
2. Know your audience.
3. Be your own voice.