Following a structured SEO checklist helps you stay organized and improve your website’s visibility step by step. This guide covers all key areas: technical SEO, on-page optimization, keyword research, and more. Whether you run a blog, Shopify store, local business, or affiliate site, these strategies can work for you.
How to Use This Guide
You don’t have to complete every task here. Focus on what fits your goals and resources. Here’s how to prioritize:
- If you’re new to SEO, start with SEO Basics, Keyword Research, and On-Page SEO.
- If you already have content but low traffic, dive into the Content Checklist.
- If your site is slow or has errors, prioritize Technical SEO.
- If you’re experienced and want to grow further, focus on Link Building and Advanced Tips.
SEO Basics Checklist
Set Up Google Search Console
Google Search Console helps you track performance, fix errors, and monitor core metrics. It shows which keywords drive traffic and provides insights into your Core Web Vitals. Setting this up is essential.
Install Bing Webmaster Tools
Bing has over 100 million daily users. Bing Webmaster Tools can supply valuable data that complements Google Search Console, helping you uncover additional traffic opportunities.
Set Up Google Analytics
Google Analytics lets you track where your visitors come from, which pages perform best, and how users interact with your site. Connecting it with Google Search Console unlocks extra reporting insights.
Install Yoast SEO
Yoast SEO simplifies on-page optimization for WordPress and Shopify. It handles sitemaps, meta tags, and robots.txt settings, making it a solid choice for beginners who want an all-in-one solution.
Identify Your KPIs
Determine which metrics matter most to you, such as:
- Organic traffic
- Keyword rankings
- Backlink growth
- Brand visibility
- Engagement metrics like bounce rate and time on site
- Conversions and sales
Clear KPIs help you measure progress and adjust your strategy.
Set Up Rank Tracking
Use a rank tracking tool to monitor your keyword positions over time. Options like Semrush’s Map Rank Tracker can track local rankings down to street-level detail.
Get a Free Semrush Account
A free Semrush account lets you:
- Analyze competitors’ keywords and backlinks
- Run site audits to catch technical issues
- Review your backlink profile to spot harmful links
You can crawl up to 100 pages and access core features without cost. Consider upgrading if you need more capacity.
Keyword Research Checklist
Identify Your Target Market
Clarify who you’re targeting and what they need. Define:
- Ideal customer profiles
- Pain points and goals
- Preferred platforms
- Common search queries
This understanding guides your keyword selection.
Discover Long-Tail Keywords with Google Suggest
Type your main keyword into Google but don’t hit enter. The autocomplete suggestions show actual search queries your audience uses. These phrases are valuable, lower-competition targets.
Find Keywords with the Backlinko Keyword Tool
Backlinko’s free tool can generate related keywords with metrics like search volume and cost per click. Enter a broad term and review the suggestions to build out your keyword list.
Tap Into Online Communities
Reddit, Quora, and niche forums reveal real user questions and pain points. Use searches like:
- How to
- I wish
- Where can I
Explore discussions to identify keyword ideas and content opportunities.
Identify Low-Competition Keywords with Semrush
Semrush’s Keyword Magic Tool helps you filter keywords by difficulty, letting you find easier terms to rank for. Look for relevant phrases with moderate search volume and low competition to get traction faster.
