A step-by-step workflow for creating SEO-optimized content using AI tools
This workflow combines AI efficiency with human oversight to create SEO-optimized content that ranks well and provides value to readers.
Each step includes specific prompts designed to work with AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, Copy AI (easiest to set up a workflow) or similar tools.
Required Tools
Workflow Steps
Start with Keyword Research Analysis
Input: Your seed keywords and initial SEO tool data.
Prompt:
Analyze these keywords from [INDUSTRY]:
[PASTE SEED KEYWORDS]
Provide a detailed analysis including:
1. Monthly search volume
2. Keyword difficulty (%)
3. Cost per click ($)
4. Search intent classification
5. Top 3 ranking domains and their domain authority
6. Related long-tail variations
7. Semantic keywords and LSI terms
Format the output as:
1. A structured table with all metrics
2. Summary of top 3 recommended keywords based on:
- Search volume
- Competition level
- Commercial intent
- Ranking probability
Competitor Content Analysis
Input: Top 3 ranking URLs for your target keyword
Prompt:
For these URLs:
[PASTE TOP 5 RANKING URLs]
Analyze and provide:
1. Content length
2. Main headings structure (H1, H2, H3)
3. Key topics covered
4. Types of media used
5. External resources cited
6. Unique angles or perspectives
7. Content gaps or missing information
8. Featured snippet opportunities
Present a comparative analysis highlighting:
- Most effective elements from each piece
- Untapped opportunities
- Recommended content length
- Key differentiators
Content Brief Generation
Input: Keyword analysis and competitor research
Prompt:
Using this data:
Target Keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
Secondary Keywords: [SECONDARY KEYWORDS]
Competitor Analysis: [PASTE ANALYSIS]
Create a detailed content brief including:
1. Title Options (minimum 3)
2. Meta Description (155-160 characters)
3. Content Structure:
- Introduction focus points
- Main H2 sections (minimum 4)
- Subsections under each H2
- Key points to cover in each section
4. Required Elements:
- Statistics to include
- Expert quotes or citations needed
- Example scenarios
- Visual content recommendations
5. SEO Requirements:
- User intent alignment strategy
- Content depth requirements
- Internal and external linking plan
- Technical optimization needs (Schema.org, page speed, mobile optimization)
- Featured snippet targeting opportunities
- URL structure recommendations
- Title tag and meta description templates
- Content hierarchy and readability guidelines
Include specific word count targets for each section based on competitor analysis.
Initial Content Generation
Input: Content brief from Step 3
Prompt:
Using this content brief:
[PASTE BRIEF]
Create a comprehensive article that follows these specifications:
Structural Requirements:
- Follow the H2/H3 structure exactly as outlined
- Include a table of contents
- Maintain optimal paragraph length (2-4 sentences)
- Add bullet points for lists over 3 items
- Include transition sentences between sections
SEO Integration:
- Ensure comprehensive topic coverage rather than focusing on keyword density
- Create in-depth, authoritative content that thoroughly addresses user intent
- Structure content for featured snippet opportunities
- Include relevant internal and external links to enhance credibility
- Implement proper Schema.org markup for better search engine understanding
- Optimize for mobile-first experience
- Ensure fast page load speeds through optimized media
Writing Style:
- Maintain 8th-grade reading level
- Use active voice
- Keep sentences under 20 words
- Include expert insights when relevant
- Support claims with current data
Generate the content section by section, maintaining consistent tone and flow throughout.
SEO Optimization Check
Input: Generated content
Prompt:
Review this content:
[PASTE CONTENT]
Analyze and provide recommendations for:
1. Content comprehensiveness and topic coverage
2. User intent fulfillment
3. Content readability and structure
4. Internal and external link relevance
5. Technical SEO elements:
- Schema markup implementation
- Mobile responsiveness
- Page load speed
- URL structure
6. Title tag and meta description effectiveness
7. Featured snippet potential
8. Content trustworthiness and authority signals
Provide specific suggestions for each element that needs improvement.
Human Optimization in Clearscope
Checklist:
- Upload content to Clearscope
- Note initial content score
- Add missing terms naturally
- Review keyword density
- Add internal links
- Polish transitions
- Verify factual accuracy
- Check brand voice alignment
- Enhance with personal insights
- Add industry-specific examples
- Export final version
Final AI Polish
Input: Clearscope-optimized content
Prompt:
Review this optimized content for natural language flow:
[PASTE OPTIMIZED CONTENT]
1. Flag any instances where keywords feel forced or artificial
2. Suggest alternative phrasings that maintain SEO value while improving readability
3. Check for:
- Natural keyword integration
- Smooth transitions
- Consistent tone
- Engaging flow
4. Provide specific rewrites for any flagged sections
Focus on maintaining SEO optimization while ensuring the content reads naturally for human audiences.