How to Write Blog Posts That Rank on Google

Writing a blog post is one thing. Writing a blog post that ranks on Google and drives consistent traffic? That’s a whole different game.

If you’re a small business owner or content creator looking to get found online, this blog will walk you through the SEO blog writing process, step by step. No jargon, just practical tips that work.

👉 Related: What is SEO?

Why SEO Matters for Blogging

Search engine optimisation (SEO) is what helps your blog content appear in Google search results. Without it, even the best-written post might never be seen.

Here’s why SEO is essential:

• Increases visibility: Helps your content show up when people search for relevant topics.
• Drives organic traffic: Brings in visitors without paying for ads.
• Builds authority: High-ranking content positions your brand as a trusted resource.
• Delivers long-term ROI: A well-optimised post can generate traffic for months or years.

Step-by-Step SEO Blog Writing Process

Step 1: Do Keyword Research

Start by identifying what your audience is searching for. Use tools like:

• Google Keyword Planner
• Ubersuggest
• AnswerThePublic

Look for:

• Keywords with decent search volume
• Low to medium competition
• Long-tail keywords (e.g. “how to write SEO blog posts”)

👉 Related: How to do keyword research

Step 2: Write a Compelling Title

Your title (also known as the H1 tag) should:

• Include your primary keyword
• Be clear and benefit-driven
• Spark curiosity or promise value

Examples:

• “How to Start a Blog That Makes Money”
• “10 SEO Tips to Boost Your Google Rankings”

Step 3: Use H1, H2, and H3 Tags Properly

Headings help both readers and search engines understand your content structure.

• Use H1 for your main title (only once)
• Use H2 for main sections
• Use H3 for sub-sections or supporting points

This improves readability and helps Google crawl your content more effectively.

Step 4: Optimise Meta Description

The meta description is the short snippet that appears under your title in search results. It doesn’t directly affect rankings, but it influences click-through rates.

• Keep it under 155 characters
• Include your keyword
• Make it enticing

Example:

“Want your blog posts to show up on Google? Learn the SEO writing techniques that help your content rank and get found.”

Step 5: Add Internal and External Links

• Internal links: Link to other relevant pages or blog posts on your site. This helps with SEO and keeps users on your site longer.

Step 6: Use Images and Alt Text

Images make your content more engaging and easier to digest. But they also help with SEO, if you optimise them.

• Use descriptive file names (e.g. seo-blog-tips.png)
• Add alt text that describes the image and includes a keyword if relevant
• Compress images to improve page speed

Step 7: Focus on Readability

Google rewards content that’s easy to read and understand.

Tips for better readability:

• Use short paragraphs and sentences.
• Break up text with bullet points and subheadings.
• Write in a conversational tone.
• Use tools like Hemingway Editor or Grammarly.

Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Keyword stuffing (overusing keywords unnaturally)
❌ Ignoring search intent (writing what you want, not what users need)
❌ Forgetting mobile optimisation
❌ Publishing without promoting
❌ Not updating old content

Avoid these pitfalls to keep your blog SEO-friendly and user-focused.

Final Thoughts

Writing blog posts that rank on Google isn’t about gaming the system; it’s about creating valuable, well-structured content that meets your audience’s needs. With the right strategy, your blog can become a powerful tool for driving traffic, building trust, and growing your business.