How to write a blog post that people can find on Google

You do not need to be a writer to write a post that people can find. You need to be clear.

Start with what people type

Before you write, think about the words a stranger would type into Google to find your answer. Use those words in your title and in your first paragraph.

Write a title a person would click

A good title says what the post is and who it helps. Keep it between 30 and 65 characters so it does not get cut off in the search results.

Add a short description

This is the sentence that shows under your title in the search results. In about 120 to 160 characters, say what the reader will get from the post.

Choose a few keywords

Pick three to five words or short phrases that match what the post is about. Do not stuff them in everywhere. One natural mention in the title, the first paragraph and a heading is plenty.

Use headings and short paragraphs

Headings break the post into steps a tired reader can follow. Keep paragraphs to two or three sentences.

Add a picture

One clear picture helps. Tell the editor in a few words what the picture shows.

Be patient

Search results take time, and no one can promise you a spot on page one. Write one useful post at a time, and keep the ones that people read.