SEO Blog Checklist 2025
The 4-phase system for Google rankings and AI citations
Identify primary and secondary keywords using Google Search Console & AI search queries (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini).
Analyse search intent (informational, navigational, commercial, transactional) across Google + AI.
Apply the FLIP framework (Freshness, Local, In-depth, Personalisation) to uncover AI search opportunities.
Benchmark competitors' visibility: check Google page one + AI citations to spot content gaps.
Write with topic clusters: link related blogs around one pillar page to build Google authority.
Incorporate E-E-A-T signals (expert quotes, case studies, personal experience, original research).
Use clear, structured formatting (H2/H3s, bullet points, direct answers) so both Google and LLMs can "lift" your content.
Blend depth + clarity: cover the full topic in detail while keeping sections concise and AI-readable.
Optimise titles, URLs, and meta descriptions with primary keywords + intent-driven messaging.
Add schema markup (FAQ, How-to, Review) to boost Google rankings and AI snippet inclusion.
Ensure technical SEO health: fast load times, mobile-first design, crawlable site structure.
Include contextual visuals (images, charts, tables) with descriptive alt text for Google + AI interpretation.
Monitor Google keyword rankings AND AI search citations — track where you're cited or invisible.
Build high-quality backlinks through PR, podcasts, industry features, and partnerships (trusted sources count more than volume).
Refresh posts regularly with updated stats and examples to maintain freshness for Google and AI.
Optimise for multi-surface discovery: Google page one, AI overviews, voice search, and niche platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FLIP framework for AI search?
FLIP stands for Freshness, Local, In-depth, and Personalisation. It identifies when AI searches the web vs. using training data. Freshness queries (recent news, updates) trigger real-time searches. Local queries (near me, location-specific) consult mapping data. In-depth queries need comprehensive answers. Personalisation queries seek user-specific recommendations. Use FLIP to find content gaps where AI actively seeks better answers.
What are topic clusters and why do they matter for SEO?
Topic clusters are groups of related content organised around a central pillar page. Instead of isolated blog posts, you link 8-15 supporting articles to one comprehensive main page. seoClarity found 97% of AI Overviews cite top-20 pages—and topical authority helps you reach those positions. This structure builds authority with Google and helps AI understand your expertise in specific subjects.
What is E-E-A-T and how does it affect AI visibility?
E-E-A-T stands for Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. ChatGPT specifically weighs domain rating and content readability. Perplexity prioritises academic and news sources. Add expert quotes with credentials, case studies, personal experience, and original research. Content with statistics gets 30-40% more AI citations. Build author pages with expertise indicators.
How often should I update blog content for SEO?
High-performing pages: quarterly (every 3 months). Perplexity and Gemini heavily weight "last updated" dates—fresh content sees up to 2x more citations. Update statistics, examples, and recommendations. Content not updated in 12+ months loses both traditional rankings and AI citations to fresher competitors. Set calendar reminders for your top 20 pages.
What schema markup should I add to blog posts?
Prioritise FAQ schema (87% average CTR for FAQ rich results), HowTo schema (60% increase in organic clicks), and Article schema (authorship signals). Only 44% of sites use schema globally—implementing it gives competitive advantage. Pages with schema see 2.5x more AI citations. Use JSON-LD format and validate with Google's Rich Results Test.
What's the optimal blog post length for 2025?
High-performing posts average 1,928 words. But structure matters more than length: opening paragraph (40-60 words direct answer), body sections (200-400 words each), FAQ answers (50-100 words). Listicles perform best at 2,200-2,800 words. "What Is" posts: 1,200-1,800 words. How-to guides: 1,700-2,500 words. Focus on comprehensive coverage, not arbitrary word counts.
How do I track AI search citations for my content?
Use multiple approaches: manually test key queries in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini weekly. Create a tracking spreadsheet with query, AI engine, and citation status. Monitor referral traffic from ai-search sources in Google Analytics. Tools like Semrush's AI Visibility Index are emerging. Most importantly, test the specific queries your target audience uses—not just your brand name or generic keywords.
The CITE Framework™ for Blog SEO
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