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Blog Post SEO Checklist: Optimize Every Post Before You Hit Publish

Blog Post SEO Checklist: Optimize Every Post Before You Hit Publish

SEO checklist with laptop and coffee cup on a desk


You’ve written your blog post. You’re about to hit publish. But wait. Have you actually optimized it for search engines, or are you just crossing your fingers and hoping Google will notice?

SEO isn’t about tricks anymore. It’s about making your content easy for search engines to understand and readers to enjoy. A good checklist keeps you from skipping steps and ensures every post has a real chance of ranking.

Here’s the complete blog post SEO checklist you should run through before hitting that publish button.

1. Start With Keyword Research

Every post needs a focus keyword. Without one, you’re just guessing.

  • Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or even the search bar autocomplete

  • Look for phrases with reasonable search volume and low-to-medium competition.

  • Make sure the keyword actually matches what your audience is searching for.

Pro tip: Don’t try to force a keyword that doesn’t fit. Pick one that naturally ties into your topic.

2. Craft a Click-Worthy Title

Your blog title is the first thing people see in search results. It has to grab attention.

  • Include your focus keyword near the start of the title.

  • Keep it under 60 characters so it doesn’t get cut off.

  • Add an emotional trigger or benefit to make people click.

Example: Instead of “SEO Checklist,” use “Blog Post SEO Checklist: Optimize Every Post Before You Publish.”

3. Optimize the Slug (URL)

Your URL should be short, clean, and keyword-rich.

  • Use hyphens to separate words.

  • Skip filler words like “a” or “the.”

  • Example: yoursite.com/blog-seo-checklist instead of yoursite.com/123/post-about-seo.

4. Write a Compelling Meta Description

This little snippet under your title in search results can make or break your click-through rate.

  • Keep it between 150–160 characters.

  • Include your keyword once.

  • Make it inviting, like a mini ad for your post.


5. Use Headers Properly

Headers (H1, H2, H3) are like road signs for readers and search engines.

  • Only one H1: the blog title.

  • Use H2s for main sections, H3s for subpoints.

  • Sprinkle in keywords where they fit naturally.

Headers not only improve SEO but also make your content easier to scan.

6. Place Keywords Naturally in the Content

Don’t stuff keywords like it’s 2005. Google can spot that a mile away.

  • Include your keyword in the first 100 words.

  • Use variations and related terms throughout.

  • Aim for natural flow, write for humans first.

7. Optimize Images

Images boost engagement, but they can hurt SEO if ignored.

  • Use descriptive filenames (seo-checklist.png instead of IMG123.png).

  • Add alt text with your keyword.

  • Compress images to keep load times fast.

Search engines can’t “see” your images, but they can read the alt text.

8. Add Internal and External Links

Links help search engines understand context and authority.

  • Internal: link to at least 2–3 related posts on your site.

  • External: link to high-authority sources (like HubSpot, Moz, or Google).

  • Use descriptive anchor text instead of “click here.”

9. Check Readability

SEO isn’t just about bots, it’s about readers too.

  • Use short sentences and paragraphs.

  • Break up text with lists and bullet points.

  • Tools like Hemingway or Grammarly can highlight readability issues.

If your post feels like a wall of text, people will bounce.

10. Add a Strong Call to Action (CTA)

Every blog post should lead somewhere.

  • Invite readers to comment, share, or join your email list.

  • Link to your lead magnet, product, or affiliate offer.

  • Make the CTA natural and aligned with the topic.

11. Mobile and Speed Optimization

Most readers are on mobile. If your site loads slowly, they’ll leave.

  • Test your page on Google’s PageSpeed Insights.

  • Use a responsive theme that adapts to all screen sizes.

  • Minimize plugins and use a caching tool.

12. Final SEO Checks Before Publishing

Before you hit publish, double-check:

  • Focus keyword in title, URL, meta, and intro.

  • Images compressed and optimized.

  • Links tested and working.

  • Post length at least 1,000 words (longer content tends to rank better).

Bringing It All Together

SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think of this checklist as your “pre-flight” inspection. Each step makes your content more discoverable and more enjoyable for readers.

The next time you’re ready to publish, slow down. Run through this checklist. A few extra minutes can be the difference between a post that gets buried and one that ranks for years.

✅ Use this checklist consistently and your blog will grow steadily in search traffic. Pair it with quality writing and you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.

Pick up your free copy of my 7-day Affiliate Jumpstart plan here:

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