Rank Higher: Complete SEO Prompt Toolkit
Copy-paste AI prompts for SEO professionals. 24 prompts to audit, optimize, and scale your search strategy in 2026.
I’ll be honest: when I first started using AI for SEO, I was asking it things like “make my website rank higher” and wondering why I got garbage responses. Turns out, SEO is complicated. You can’t just wave a magic wand and expect Google to flood your inbox with traffic.
I spent three years banging my head against keyword tools, backlink databases, and algorithm updates that seemed to change every other week. Then I started treating AI like the expert consultant it can be—giving it context, constraints, and clear objectives. That’s when everything changed.
Here’s the thing that blew my mind: 68% of online experiences begin with a search engine. If your content isn’t showing up, you’re invisible to the majority of potential customers.
According to Google’s official documentation, proper technical implementation is crucial for search visibility. AI can help you audit, optimize, and scale your SEO efforts in a fraction of the time it used to take.
This isn’t another generic “SEO guide” full of fluff. I’ve organized these 24 prompts by workflow—keyword research, content optimization, technical SEO, and link building—not random categories. You’ll get copy-paste templates that work with GPT-4, Claude 3, and Gemini.
Fair warning: AI won’t replace SEO specialists. But SEO specialists who master AI prompts will absolutely outcompete those who don’t—and they’re already doing it.
What Makes an Effective AI Prompt for SEO? (The Framework)
Think of your AI tool as a brilliant intern who’s never seen your website before. They’re capable of incredible work, but they know nothing about your niche, your audience, or your current rankings. If you walk up and say “fix my SEO,” they’ll shrug. If you say “audit our blog for keyword cannibalization targeting ‘project management software’ and suggest consolidation strategies,” now they can actually help.
Here’s the 5-component framework I use for every SEO prompt:
- Role: Tell the AI what expert to act as (e.g., “SEO Strategist with 10 years of technical SEO experience”)
- Context: Provide your website, current rankings, and specific page URLs
- Task: State your specific SEO goal clearly (audit, optimize, research, build)
- Constraints: Mention requirements like word count, format, or technical limitations
- Output Format: Specify how you want the response (table, list, actionable steps)
Now, here’s what you need to know about when not to use AI for SEO:
- Algorithm predictions: AI doesn’t know Google’s next update. Don’t ask it to predict ranking factors.
- Link acquisition outreach: AI can draft emails, but relationship building requires human judgment.
- Real-time competitive data: AI’s knowledge has a cutoff. Always verify with current tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush.
- Legal compliance: Don’t ask AI to generate content that violates advertising regulations or copyright.
Note: Check out our meta-prompting techniques for refining your SEO prompts.
Ready? Let’s begin.
SEO Prompts by Workflow
I’ve organized these 24 prompts into six workflows that mirror how professional SEO actually gets done. Each prompt is ready to copy-paste—just replace the bracketed placeholders with your specific context.
Keyword Research Workflow
These four prompts handle everything from finding primary keywords to identifying content gaps and search intent classification.
LSI Keyword Finder
Purpose: Discover semantically related keywords to strengthen topical authority Use case: When building content clusters or optimizing pillar pages
ROLE: SEO Content Strategist & Semantic Keyword Expert
OBJECTIVE: Generate a comprehensive list of LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords, related terms, and semantic variations for a target keyword.
CONTEXT:
LSI keywords help search engines understand content context and topical depth. They signal relevance without keyword stuffing.
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Current target keyword: [TARGET KEYWORD]
- Primary topic: [TOPIC NAME]
- Content type: [BLOG POST/PRODUCT PAGE/PILLAR PAGE]
THINKING PROCESS:
1. Analyze the target keyword's semantic field
2. Identify related concepts, synonyms, and variations
3. Consider user intent behind different search queries
4. Group keywords by semantic relationship
5. Prioritize by search volume potential and difficulty
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Do NOT repeat the target keyword more than 3 times
- Include both short-tail and long-tail variations
- Consider industry-specific terminology
- Account for geographic variations if relevant
- Focus on terms that appear in top-ranking content
OUTPUT FORMAT:
Present your output as follows:
LSI KEYWORD CLUSTERS:
- Cluster: [CLUSTER NAME]
- Primary terms: term1, term2, term3
- Search intent: Informational/Transactional/Navigational
- Priority: High/Medium/Low
RELATED TERMS BY CATEGORY:
- SYNONYMS: term1, term2, term3
- EXTENDED SEMANTICS: term4, term5, term6
- QUESTION QUERIES: term7, term8
CONTENT INTEGRATION RECOMMENDATIONS:
Suggest 5-7 terms to naturally incorporate into [CONTENT PIECE] and where to place them.Customize it: Replace [TARGET KEYWORD], [TOPIC NAME], and [CONTENT PIECE] with your specific keyword and content details.
Long-Tail Keyword Generator
Purpose: Generate specific, low-competition long-tail keywords for targeted content Use case: When planning blog posts or finding underserved search queries
ROLE: SEO Keyword Research Specialist & Search Demand Analyst
OBJECTIVE: Generate 20+ high-value long-tail keyword variations for [TARGET KEYWORD], analyzing search intent, competition level, and content opportunity.
CONTEXT:
Long-tail keywords (3+ words) typically have:
- Lower search volume but higher conversion rates
- Less competition than head terms
- Clearer user intent signals
- Better opportunities for featured snippets
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target keyword: [TARGET KEYWORD]
- Niche/Industry: [YOUR INDUSTRY]
- Geographic target: [GLOBAL/US/UK/etc. - or leave generic]
THINKING PROCESS:
1. Analyze base keyword for modifier opportunities
2. Identify question-based long-tail variations
3. Consider comparison and vs. queries
4. Look for problem/solution based queries
5. Factor in seasonal and trending modifiers
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Exclude keywords with obvious commercial intent (buy, price, discount)
- Focus on informational and navigational intent primarily
- Consider voice search optimization (question format)
- Include both broad and specific variations
- Prioritize keywords that indicate problem-solving intent
OUTPUT FORMAT:
LONG-TAIL KEYWORDS BY CATEGORY:
QUESTION-BASED (For FAQ/People Also Ask):
- keyword1
- keyword2
- keyword3
PROBLEM/SOLUTION BASED:
- keyword1
- keyword2
- keyword3
COMPARISON/ALTERNATIVE SEEKING:
- keyword1
- keyword2
- keyword3
SPECIFIC/DETAILED QUERIES:
- keyword1
- keyword2
- keyword3
TOP 5 PRIORITY KEYWORDS:
For each, explain: why valuable for [YOUR INDUSTRY], what content type would rank best, and one specific angle to pursue.
CONTENT GAP OPPORTUNITIES:
Identify 3-5 long-tail keywords that competitors might be missing.Customize it: Fill in your industry and target keyword to generate domain-specific results.
Keyword Clusterizer
Purpose: Group individual keywords into strategic clusters for content planning Use case: When organizing keyword research into actionable content calendars
ROLE: SEO Content Architecture Expert & Keyword Clustering Specialist
OBJECTIVE: Analyze a list of keywords and group them into strategic clusters based on semantic relevance, search intent, and content opportunity.
CONTEXT:
Keyword clustering helps:
- Identify content consolidation opportunities
- Prevent keyword cannibalization
- Plan hub-and-spoke content strategies
- Understand topical authority gaps
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Keywords to cluster: [PASTE YOUR KEYWORD LIST - 10-50 keywords]
- Website focus: [YOUR WEBSITE/BRAND]
- Primary business goal: [TRAFFIC/CONVERSIONS/AUTHORITY]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Group by semantic meaning, not just word overlap
- Consider intent alignment within clusters
- Identify clusters that could be pillar pages
- Flag potential cannibalization risks
- Recommend content types per cluster
OUTPUT FORMAT:
KEYWORD CLUSTERS:
Cluster 1: [CLUSTER NAME]
Primary Keyword: [HEAD TERM]
Search Intent: Informational/Transactional/Navigational
Cluster Keywords: keyword1, keyword2, keyword3
Recommended Strategy: Pillar Page/Blog Post/Product Page/Consolidation
Cluster 2: [CLUSTER NAME]
[Same format as above]
PILLAR PAGE OPPORTUNITIES:
List clusters that could support a pillar/cluster strategy with topic names and supporting page topics.
CANNIBALIZATION RISKS:
Clusters with overlapping keywords that need consolidation - list the pages and recommended action.
QUICK WINS:
High-volume, low-difficulty keywords for immediate content creation.Customize it: Paste your keyword list and let the AI do the strategic grouping.
Search Intent Classifier
Purpose: Categorize keywords by user intent to align content strategy Use case: When auditing existing content or planning new content pieces
ROLE: SEO User Intent Analyst & Search Behavior Expert
OBJECTIVE: Classify each keyword by search intent, sub-intent, and content opportunity.
CONTEXT:
Understanding search intent ensures content matches what users actually want:
- Informational: Users seeking knowledge (how, what, why)
- Navigational: Users seeking specific brands/sites
- Transactional: Users ready to take action (buy, sign up)
- Commercial Investigation: Users comparing options (best, vs, review)
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Keywords to analyze: [PASTE KEYWORDS - one per line]
- Current top-ranking result context: [OPTIONAL - industry norms]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Classify primary AND secondary intent
- Consider commercial intent as distinct from transactional
- Flag intent mismatches (informational keyword on transactional page)
- Identify intent shifts across the funnel
OUTPUT FORMAT:
KEYWORD INTENT MAP:
- Keyword: [KEYWORD]
- Primary Intent: Informational/Transactional/Navigational/Commercial
- Sub-Intent: [SPECIFIC SUB-INTENT]
- Content Type: [BLOG/PRODUCT/LANDING/PILLAR]
- Opportunity: High/Medium/Low
INTENT DISTRIBUTION ANALYSIS:
- Informational Keywords: Count, percentage, best content format
- Transactional Keywords: Count, percentage, best content format
- Commercial Investigation Keywords: Count, percentage, best content format
- Navigational Keywords: Count, percentage, recommendation
INTENT-BASED STRATEGY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Quick Wins (high-intent keywords with existing content):
- Keyword: X | Page: Y | Action: OPTIMIZE META/ADD CTA/EXPAND CONTENT
Gap Opportunities (high intent, no content):
- Keyword: X | Intent: Y | Recommended Page: ZCustomize it: Paste your keyword list for instant intent classification.
Content Optimization Workflow
These five prompts handle on-page optimization from meta tags to featured snippets.
Meta Title & Description Writer
Purpose: Create compelling, CTR-optimized meta tags for any page Use case: When optimizing existing pages or planning new content
ROLE: Conversion Copywriter & SEO Meta Tag Specialist
OBJECTIVE: Write compelling meta titles and descriptions that maximize click-through rates while incorporating target keywords naturally.
CONTEXT:
Meta tags influence:
- Search engine display in SERPs
- Click-through rates (CTR)
- Social sharing previews
- Brand perception and credibility
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Page URL: [PAGE URL]
- Page type: [BLOG/PRODUCT/CATEGORY/LANDING]
- Target keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Secondary keywords: [KEYWORD 2, KEYWORD 3]
- Brand name: [YOUR BRAND]
- Unique value proposition: [WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT]
- Target audience: [WHO ARE THEY]
- Current ranking position: [IF RANKING - OPTIONAL]
- Competitors in SERP: [TOP 3 RANKING PAGES - OPTIONAL]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Title: 50-60 characters maximum
- Description: 150-160 characters maximum
- Include primary keyword in both title and description
- Include brand name if character count allows
- Create urgency or curiosity without clickbait
- Match search intent in tone (professional vs. casual)
- Include numbers or power words when relevant
OUTPUT FORMAT:
META TITLE OPTIONS (Ranked by CTR Potential):
1. [TITLE] (Length: X | Includes: keyword | CTR Score: X/10)
2. [TITLE] (Length: X | Includes: keyword | CTR Score: X/10)
3. [TITLE] (Length: X | Includes: keyword | CTR Score: X/10)
META DESCRIPTION OPTIONS (Ranked by CTR Potential):
1. [DESCRIPTION] (Length: X | CTA: Yes/No | CTR Score: X/10)
2. [DESCRIPTION] (Length: X | CTA: Yes/No | CTR Score: X/10)
3. [DESCRIPTION] (Length: X | CTA: Yes/No | CTR Score: X/10)
SERP PREVIEW:
Show how each title/description combination appears in search results.
A/B TESTING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Suggest 2 titles and 2 descriptions to test in Google Ads or your campaign manager.Customize it: Provide your page details for customized meta tag recommendations.
For content optimization strategies, learn how to create compelling content that ranks and converts.
Introduction Hook Writer
Purpose: Craft opening paragraphs that hook readers and signal relevance to search engines Use case: When writing new content or rewriting underperforming pages
ROLE: Content Strategist & Conversion Copywriter
OBJECTIVE: Write 3-4 compelling introduction options for [CONTENT PIECE] that hook readers immediately while signaling topic relevance to search engines.
CONTEXT:
The introduction determines:
- Whether readers continue reading (dwell time)
- Keyword relevance signals in the first 100 words
- Social shares and engagement potential
- Email open rates when shared in newsletters
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Content type: [BLOG POST/ARTICLE/LANDING PAGE]
- Primary keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Target audience: [AUDIENCE DESCRIPTION]
- Content goal: [EDUCATE/CONVERT/INFORM]
- Brand voice: [PROFESSIONAL/CASUAL/TECHNICAL/FRIENDLY]
- Hook style preference: [QUESTION/STATISTIC/STORY/PROBLEM-SOLUTION]
- Competitor intros to outperform: [URLS - OPTIONAL]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Include primary keyword in first 100 words
- Keep under 150 words for tight hooks
- Front-load the most compelling information
- Avoid generic openings ("In today's digital world...")
- Create curiosity that pulls readers forward
- Match emotional tone to audience needs
- Include credibility signal if relevant (data, experience, credentials)
OUTPUT FORMAT:
HOOK OPTION 1: [HOOK TYPE]
[FULL INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH]
Why it works:
- [REASON 1]
- [REASON 2]
- [REASON 3]
HOOK OPTION 2: [HOOK TYPE]
[FULL INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH]
Why it works:
- [REASON 1]
- [REASON 2]
- [REASON 3]
HOOK OPTION 3: [HOOK TYPE]
[FULL INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH]
Why it works:
- [REASON 1]
- [REASON 2]
- [REASON 3]
RECOMMENDED VERSION:
[CHOICE] with suggested refinements for [SPECIFIC GOAL].Customize it: Describe your content piece and audience for tailored hooks.
Header Tag Optimizer
Purpose: Structure content with SEO-optimized header tags Use case: When planning content structure or auditing existing pages
ROLE: Technical SEO Specialist & Content Architect
OBJECTIVE: Analyze the provided content outline and create an optimized header tag (H1, H2, H3) structure that improves readability and keyword targeting.
CONTEXT:
Proper header tags:
- Create logical content hierarchy
- Help search engines understand content structure
- Improve accessibility for screen readers
- Enable featured snippet opportunities
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Primary keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Secondary keywords: [KEYWORD 2, KEYWORD 3]
- Content topic: [TOPIC DESCRIPTION]
- Content length target: [WORD COUNT GOAL]
- Target audience expertise: [BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED]
- Current headers (if auditing): [PASTE EXISTING HEADERS]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- H1: One per page, includes primary keyword
- H2: Logical sections, include secondary keywords naturally
- H3: Sub-sections under H2s, no more than 3-4 per H2
- Front-load keywords in headers when natural
- Use question format for featured snippet targets
- Keep headers descriptive and scannable
- Maximum 60 characters per H2/H3
OUTPUT FORMAT:
RECOMMENDED HEADER STRUCTURE:
H1: [Primary Keyword - Optimized Title]
H2: [Section 1 Header]
H3: [Subsection 1.1]
H3: [Subsection 1.2]
H2: [Section 2 Header]
H3: [Subsection 2.1]
H3: [Subsection 2.2]
H2: [Section 3 Header]
H3: [Subsection 3.1]
KEYWORD DISTRIBUTION:
- H1: Primary keyword: Yes | Secondary keywords: [LIST]
- H2 [Section 1]: Primary keyword: [YES/NO] | Secondary keywords: [LIST]
- H2 [Section 2]: Primary keyword: [YES/NO] | Secondary keywords: [LIST]
FEATURED SNIPPET OPPORTUNITIES:
Headers formatted as questions that could trigger snippets:
- Header 1?
- Header 2?
AUDIT OF CURRENT STRUCTURE (if applicable):
- Current Header: [HEADER] | Issue: [ISSUE] | Recommendation: [ACTION]Customize it: Provide your content topic and keywords for a complete header plan.
Content Optimizer (TF-IDF)
Purpose: Analyze content against top-ranking pages using TF-IDF principles Use case: When optimizing for competitive keywords
ROLE: SEO Content Analyst & TF-IDF Optimization Expert
OBJECTIVE: Analyze the target content and recommend TF-IDF (Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency) optimizations based on top-ranking competitor analysis.
CONTEXT:
TF-IDF helps identify:
- Terms top-ranking pages use frequently (and you might be missing)
- Over-optimization risks (repetitive keywords)
- Semantic variations you should include
- LSI keywords that signal topical authority
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Your content URL: [YOUR URL]
- Target keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Top 3 ranking competitor URLs: [URL 1, URL 2, URL 3]
- Current word count: [COUNT]
- Primary topic: [TOPIC]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Focus on terms appearing in 3+ competitor pages
- Prioritize terms with high frequency but low current usage
- Flag potential over-optimization (keyword stuffing signals)
- Consider semantic relationships, not exact matches
- Balance optimization with readability
OUTPUT FORMAT:
TF-IDF GAP ANALYSIS:
MISSING HIGH-VALUE TERMS:
Terms competitors use frequently but your content doesn't:
- Term: [TERM] | Frequency: 3/3 | Usage: 0 mentions | Priority: Critical
- Term: [TERM] | Frequency: 3/3 | Usage: 0 mentions | Priority: High
- Term: [TERM] | Frequency: 2/3 | Usage: 1 mention | Priority: Medium
POTENTIAL OVER-OPTIMIZATION:
Terms appearing more frequently than competitors:
- Term: [TERM] | Your Frequency: [X] | Avg Competitor: [Y] | Risk: Low/Medium/High
RECOMMENDED LSI TERMS TO ADD:
Terms that appear in 2+ competitor pages that you should naturally incorporate.
CONTENT REVISION RECOMMENDATIONS:
High Priority Additions:
1. Term: Add naturally in [RECOMMENDED SECTION]
2. Term: Add naturally in [RECOMMENDED SECTION]
Sections to Expand:
- Section: [SECTION] | Current: [X] words | Recommended: [Y] words | Why: [REASON]
Sections to Trim (if over-optimized):
- Section: [SECTION] | Issue: [ISSUE] | Recommendation: [ACTION]
PROJECTED IMPACT:
Based on TF-IDF gaps, estimated improvement potential: X-X% in short-term/long-term.Customize it: Provide your URL and competitor URLs for detailed TF-IDF analysis.
Featured Snippet Optimizer
Purpose: Structure content to capture Google’s featured snippets Use case: When targeting position zero for competitive queries
ROLE: Featured Snippet Specialist & SERP Optimization Expert
OBJECTIVE: Structure content and draft optimized snippet-winning answers for [TARGET KEYWORD].
CONTEXT:
Featured snippets appear for:
- Question-based queries (what, how, why, when, where)
- Comparison queries (vs, difference between)
- Definition queries
- List-based queries
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD/QUESTION]
- Current ranking: [POSITION 1-10 or NOT RANKING]
- SERP features showing: [PARAGRAPH/LIST/TABLE/CODING]
- Target audience: [AUDIENCE]
- Content length: [CURRENT WORD COUNT]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Answer in 40-60 words for paragraph snippets
- Keep lists under 8 items for bullet snippets
- Use tables for comparison data (2-3 rows ideal)
- Front-load answers with the key information
- Structure questions as H2 or H3 headers
- Include the keyword in the answer
- Provide accurate, verifiable information
OUTPUT FORMAT:
SNIPPET TYPE ANALYSIS:
- Query Type: [TYPE] | Current SERP: [FORMAT] | Recommended Format: [FORMAT]
OPTIMIZED ANSWER DRAFTS:
PARAGRAPH SNIPPET (40-60 words):
Question: What is X?
Answer: [BETWEEN 40-60 WORDS. START WITH DEFINITION. INCLUDE KEYWORD NATURALLY.]
LIST SNIPPET (Ordered):
Question: How to X (5+ steps):
1. Step with action verb
2. Step with action verb
3. Step with action verb
4. Step with action verb
5. Step with action verb
BULLET SNIPPET:
Question: What are types of X?
- Type 1: Brief description
- Type 2: Brief description
- Type 3: Brief description
TABLE SNIPPET:
Question: Comparison of X vs Y:
- Feature: [FEATURE 1] | X: [VALUE] | Y: [VALUE]
- Feature: [FEATURE 2] | X: [VALUE] | Y: [VALUE]
- Feature: [FEATURE 3] | X: [VALUE] | Y: [VALUE]
CONTENT PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Snippet Type: [TYPE] | Where to Place: [SECTION] | Heading Level: H2
COMPETITOR SNIPPET ANALYSIS:
- Competitor: [NAME] | Has Snippet: Yes/No | Weakness to Exploit: [OPPORTUNITY]Customize it: Target your key phrase and draft snippet-winning answers.
Technical SEO Workflow
These five prompts cover schema, core web vitals, hreflang, and more.
Schema Markup Generator
Purpose: Generate accurate JSON-LD schema for any page type Use case: When implementing structured data for rich results
ROLE: Technical SEO Specialist & Structured Data Expert
OBJECTIVE: Generate accurate, comprehensive JSON-LD schema markup for the specified page.
CONTEXT:
Schema markup helps search engines:
- Understand page content and context
- Display rich results (stars, FAQs, how-to)
- Earn the Knowledge Graph card
- Improve click-through rates
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Page URL: [PAGE URL]
- Page type: [ARTICLE/PRODUCT/EVENT/ORGANIZATION/LOCAL BUSINESS/RECIPE/FAQ]
- Organization name: [YOUR BRAND]
- Logo URL: [LOGO LINK]
Page-specific details:
- Article: Title, Author, Date, Image
- Product: Name, Description, Price, Availability, Reviews
- Event: Name, Date, Location, Tickets
- Local Business: Address, Phone, Hours, Geo Coordinates
- FAQ: Questions and Answers
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Use latest Schema.org vocabulary
- Follow Google's structured data guidelines
- Include all required properties for rich result eligibility
- Use JSON-LD format (Google's preferred format)
- Include @context and @type at minimum
- Nest related schemas when appropriate
- Validate with Rich Results Test before deployment
OUTPUT FORMAT:
RECOMMENDED SCHEMA TYPES:
- Schema: [SCHEMA TYPE] | Why It's Relevant: [REASON]
JSON-LD CODE:
CODE:
<script type="application/ld+json">
{
"@context": "https://schema.org",
"@type": "[TYPE]",
[COMPLETE SCHEMA]
}
</script>
END CODE
IMPLEMENTATION INSTRUCTIONS:
1. [STEP 1]
2. [STEP 2]
VALIDATION CHECKLIST:
- [ ] Tested in Google Rich Results Test
- [ ] No errors or warnings
- [ ] Preview shows expected rich result
- [ ] Deployed to staging for 24-hour testCustomize it: Specify your page type and details for custom schema code.
Robots.txt & Sitemap Generator
Purpose: Generate optimized robots.txt and XML sitemap instructions Use case: When launching new sites or auditing technical SEO
ROLE: Technical SEO Architect & Crawl Budget Expert
OBJECTIVE: Create optimized robots.txt and sitemap.xml instructions for [WEBSITE URL].
CONTEXT:
Proper robots.txt and sitemaps:
- Control which pages search engines crawl
- Preserve crawl budget for important pages
- Prevent indexing of duplicate/private content
- Help search engines discover priority pages
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Website URL: [https://example.com]
- CMS platform: [WORDPRESS/SHOPIFY/CUSTOM/OTHER]
- Primary pages to index: [HOME, PRODUCTS, BLOG, ABOUT, CONTACT]
- Pages to block: [ADMIN, CART, ACCOUNT, INTERNAL SEARCH]
- Priority pages: [TOP 10 MOST IMPORTANT URLS]
- Update frequency: [DAILY/WEEKLY/MONTHLY]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Never block CSS or JavaScript files
- Don't block pages you want indexed
- Consider crawl budget for large sites
- Include sitemap location in robots.txt
- Use consistent URL formatting (www vs non-www, trailing slash)
- Consider regional/category sitemaps for large sites
OUTPUT FORMAT:
ROBOTS.TXT:
CODE:
User-agent: [GOOGLEBOT/BINGBOT/SPECIFIC]
Allow: [/path/to/index]
Disallow: [/path/to/block]
User-agent: *
Disallow: [/admin/, /cart/, /search?]
Sitemap: [https://example.com/sitemap.xml]
END CODE
XML SITEMAP RECOMMENDATIONS:
Main Sitemap Structure:
CODE:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<urlset xmlns="http://www.sitemaps.org/schemas/sitemap/0.9">
<url>
<loc>[https://example.com/page]</loc>
<changefreq>[daily/weekly/monthly]</changefreq>
<priority>[0.8-1.0]</priority>
</url>
</urlset>
END CODE
RECOMMENDED SITEMAP COUNT:
- Sitemap Type: Main | Count: 1 | URL: /sitemap.xml
- Sitemap Type: Category | Count: [X] | URL: /sitemaps/category-X.xml
- Sitemap Type: Product | Count: [X] | URL: /sitemaps/product-X.xml
CRAWL BUDGET OPTIMIZATION TIPS:
1. [TIP 1]
2. [TIP 2]According to Google’s JavaScript SEO guidelines, proper crawl budget management is essential for large websites.
Customize it: Provide your site details for custom robots and sitemap configuration.
For advanced schema and technical implementation, see our essential code prompts for developers.
Hreflang Tag Builder
Purpose: Generate correct hreflang tags for international SEO Use case: When managing multi-language or multi-regional sites
ROLE: International SEO Specialist & Hreflang Expert
OBJECTIVE: Generate correct hreflang implementation for a multi-language/multi-regional website.
CONTEXT:
Hreflang tags:
- Tell search engines which language/region a page targets
- Prevent duplicate content issues across regions
- Direct users to locally relevant content
- Require accurate implementation to work
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Website base URL: [https://example.com]
- Default language: [en-US]
- Countries targeting: [US, UK, CA, AU, DE, FR, ES, etc.]
- Languages: [English, German, French, Spanish, etc.]
- Current page URL: [SPECIFIC PAGE or ALL PAGES]
Regional variants to include:
- US: en-US
- UK: en-GB
- DE: de-DE
- FR: fr-FR
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Use ISO 639-1 for language codes (en, de, fr)
- Use ISO 3166-1 Alpha 2 for country codes (US, GB, DE)
- Include x-default for unspecified regions
- Self-referencing tags required on every page
- Return tags must match on all regional versions
- Use lowercase for all codes
- Include both language-only and region-specific when needed
OUTPUT FORMAT:
HREFLANG IMPLEMENTATION:
HTML Head Section:
CODE:
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="[CODE]" href="[URL]" />
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="x-default" href="[DEFAULT URL]" />
END CODE
Example for Specific Page:
CODE:
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="en-us" href="https://example.com/page/" />
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="en-gb" href="https://example.com/uk/page/" />
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="de-de" href="https://example.com/de/seite/" />
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="x-default" href="https://example.com/page/" />
END CODE
SITEWIDE IMPLEMENTATION CHECKLIST:
- Task: Self-referencing hreflang on all pages | Status: [ ]
- Task: Return tags match across all variants | Status: [ ]
- Task: x-default set correctly | Status: [ ]
- Task: Tested with TechnicalSEO Hreflang Tester | Status: [ ]
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID:
1. [MISTAKE 1]
2. [MISTAKE 2]Customize it: Specify your target regions and languages for custom hreflang tags.
Core Web Vitals Explainer
Purpose: Diagnose and explain Core Web Vitals issues Use case: When auditing page speed and user experience
ROLE: Core Web Vitals Expert & Page Speed Optimizer
OBJECTIVE: Analyze Core Web Vitals metrics and provide actionable optimization recommendations.
CONTEXT:
Core Web Vitals are <a href="https://developers.google.com/search/docs/essentials/page-experience" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google's user experience signals</a>:
- LCP (Largest Contentful Paint): Loading performance (target: <2.5s)
- INP (Interaction to Next Paint): Interactivity (target: <200ms)
- CLS (Cumulative Layout Shift): Visual stability (target: <0.1)
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Page URL: [PAGE URL]
- Current GSC data: [IF AVAILABLE]
- GTmetrix/PageSpeed Insights URL: [IF AVAILABLE]
- Device: [MOBILE/DESKTOP/BOTH]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Prioritize mobile experience (Google's ranking factor)
- Focus on changes with biggest impact
- Consider trade-offs between metrics
- Test after each optimization
- Document baseline and improvements
OUTPUT FORMAT:
CURRENT METRICS ANALYSIS:
- Metric: LCP | Current: [X]s | Target: <2.5s | Status: GOOD/NEEDS IMPROVEMENT/POOR
- Metric: INP | Current: [X]ms | Target: <200ms | Status: GOOD/NEEDS IMPROVEMENT/POOR
- Metric: CLS | Current: [X] | Target: <0.1 | Status: GOOD/NEEDS IMPROVEMENT/POOR
LCP OPTIMIZATION RECOMMENDATIONS:
Issue: [IDENTIFIED PROBLEM]
Impact: HIGH/MEDIUM/LOW
Fix:
CODE:
[CODE OR INSTRUCTION]
END CODE
Issue: [IDENTIFIED PROBLEM]
Impact: HIGH/MEDIUM/LOW
Fix:
CODE:
[CODE OR INSTRUCTION]
END CODE
INP OPTIMIZATION RECOMMENDATIONS:
Issue: [IDENTIFIED PROBLEM]
Impact: HIGH/MEDIUM/LOW
Fix:
CODE:
[CODE OR INSTRUCTION]
END CODE
CLS OPTIMIZATION RECOMMENDATIONS:
Issue: [IDENTIFIED PROBLEM]
Impact: HIGH/MEDIUM/LOW
Fix:
CODE:
[CODE OR INSTRUCTION]
END CODE
PRIORITY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN:
- Fix: [FIX] | Effort: Low/Medium/High | Impact: High/Medium/Low | Priority: 1-10
TESTING & VALIDATION:
1. Run [TOOL NAME] after changes
2. Compare before/after screenshots
3. Monitor GSC for sustained improvementCustomize it: Provide your URL and speed test results for targeted recommendations.
Regex for SEO
Purpose: Generate regex patterns for advanced SEO filtering and redirects Use case: When handling complex URL migrations or filter parameters
ROLE: Technical SEO Regex Specialist & URL Architect
OBJECTIVE: Create regular expression patterns for [SPECIFIC SEO USE CASE].
CONTEXT:
Regex (regular expressions) helps with:
- URL pattern matching for redirects
- Google Analytics filtering
- Search Console query analysis
- Parameter handling in GSC
- htaccess rules
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Use case: [MIGRATION/PARAMETER/HTTACCESS/ANALYTICS]
- Current URL pattern: [EXAMPLE]
- Target URL pattern: [EXAMPLE]
- Total URLs affected: [NUMBER]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Test regex in Regex101 before deployment
- Use the least restrictive pattern that works
- Consider edge cases and unexpected matches
- Document the regex logic for future reference
- 301 redirect is preferred for permanent moves
- Test with sample URLs before full rollout
OUTPUT FORMAT:
REGEX PATTERN:
CODE:
[REGEX PATTERN]
END CODE
EXPLANATION:
- Component: [COMPONENT] | Meaning: [EXPLANATION]
- Component: [COMPONENT] | Meaning: [EXPLANATION]
EXAMPLES:
- Input URL: [URL] | Matches: Yes/No | Output: [RESULT]
- Input URL: [URL] | Matches: Yes/No | Output: [RESULT]
- Input URL: [URL] | Matches: Yes/No | Output: [RESULT]
IMPLEMENTATION CODE:
Apache/.htaccess:
CODE:
Redirect 301 [REGEX] [TARGET]
END CODE
Nginx:
CODE:
rewrite [REGEX] [TARGET] [FLAGS];
END CODE
Google Analytics Filter:
CODE:
[FILTER PATTERN]
END CODE
TESTING CHECKLIST:
- [ ] Tested in regex tester with sample URLs
- [ ] Confirmed no unintended matches
- [ ] 301 redirect implemented
- [ ] URL updated in sitemaps
- [ ] Internal links updated where possible
- [ ] GSC property updated if neededCustomize it: Describe your regex need and get a custom pattern with implementation code.
According to Google’s HTTPS guidelines, proper redirects and canonical implementation are essential for preserving link equity during site migrations.
Link Building Workflow
These four prompts handle outreach, guest posts, and link acquisition strategy.
To learn more about effective link building, check out our marketing prompts for outreach templates and strategies.
Internal Link Suggester
Purpose: Identify internal linking opportunities to boost authority Use case: When optimizing site architecture or updating existing content
ROLE: Internal Linking Strategist & Site Architecture Expert
OBJECTIVE: Analyze [TARGET PAGE] and identify high-value internal linking opportunities to distribute PageRank and improve topical authority.
CONTEXT:
Internal linking:
- Distributes link equity across the site
- Helps search engines discover and index pages
- Establishes topical relationships
- Improves user navigation and dwell time
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target page: [URL]
- Target keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Pages to link FROM (hub pages): [LIST HIGH-AUTHORITY PAGES]
- Pages to link TO (supporting content): [LIST PAGES THAT NEED LINKS]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Prioritize links from high-authority pages
- Use descriptive anchor text (not "click here")
- Link contextually within relevant content
- Avoid over-optimization (reasonable anchor diversity)
- Consider user value, not just SEO
- Link to both new and evergreen content
OUTPUT FORMAT:
INTERNAL LINK OPPORTUNITIES:
High-Priority Linking Opportunities:
- Source Page: [URL] | Current Links: [X] | Placement: [LOCATION] | Anchor: [TEXT] | Priority: 1-5
Pages That Should Link to [TARGET PAGE]:
- Page URL: [URL] | Current Links: [X] | Suggested Anchor: [TEXT] | Why: [REASON]
ANCHOR TEXT DISTRIBUTION:
- Anchor Type: Exact match | Count: [X] | Percentage: X% | Recommendation: Reduce to <Y%
- Anchor Type: Partial match | Count: [X] | Percentage: X% | Recommendation: Good
- Anchor Type: Branded | Count: [X] | Percentage: X% | Recommendation: Good
- Anchor Type: Generic | Count: [X] | Percentage: X% | Recommendation: Increase
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN:
Quick Wins (Same Page Edits):
1. [OPPORTUNITY 1]
2. [OPPORTUNITY 2]
Medium Effort (Cross-References):
1. [OPPORTUNITY 1]
2. [OPPORTUNITY 2]
ESTIMATED IMPACT:
Pages likely to see ranking improvements: [URLS]
Expected timeline: X-X weeksCustomize it: Provide your target page and high-authority sources for link recommendations.
Guest Post Pitch Writer
Purpose: Craft compelling outreach emails for guest posting Use case: When building backlinks through guest contribution
ROLE: Guest Post Outreach Specialist & Link Building Strategist
OBJECTIVE: Write a personalized, high-converting guest post pitch email for [TARGET BLOG].
CONTEXT:
Effective guest post outreach:
- Requires personalization, not templates
- Demonstrates value to the host blog
- Focuses on relationship, not just links
- Follows explicit submission guidelines
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target blog: [BLOG NAME]
- Target blog URL: [URL]
- Target blog topics: [NICHE/TOPICS]
- Guest post guidelines: [URL OR SUMMARY]
- Your expertise: [YOUR BACKGROUND]
- Unique angle: [YOUR UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE]
- Recent posts on target blog: [URLS - 2-3 RECENT POSTS]
- Host blogger name: [NAME - IF KNOWN]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Keep email under 200 words
- Reference specific recent post (shows research)
- Pitch 2-3 topic options, not one
- Emphasize value to their audience
- Include credentials briefly
- End with clear next step
- Follow their submission guidelines exactly
OUTPUT FORMAT:
SUBJECT LINE OPTIONS:
- Option 1: [SUBJECT] | Why It Works: [REASON]
- Option 2: [SUBJECT] | Why It Works: [REASON]
- Option 3: [SUBJECT] | Why It Works: [REASON]
EMAIL BODY - OPTION 1:
CODE:
Hi [NAME],
I regularly read [BLOG NAME] and loved your recent post about [TOPIC] especially [SPECIFIC POINT FROM POST].
I'm a [YOUR ROLE] with [X] years of experience in [FIELD], and I'd love to contribute a guest post.
Here are three topic ideas your readers would value:
1. [TOPIC 1 - includes TARGET KEYWORD naturally]
2. [TOPIC 2]
3. [TOPIC 3]
Each would be original, actionable, and aligned with your content on [RELATED TOPIC].
Would any of these work for [BLOG NAME]? I'm happy to send a full outline or draft.
Best,
[YOUR NAME]
[YOUR CREDENTIALS]
END CODE
TOPIC PITCH DETAILS:
Pitch 1: [TITLE]
Why it works for [BLOG]: [REASON]
Target keyword: [KEYWORD]
Estimated word count: X,000
Pitch 2: [TITLE]
[Same format]
Pitch 3: [TITLE]
[Same format]
FOLLOW-UP SCHEDULE:
- Day 1: Send initial pitch
- Day 7: Follow-up #1
- Day 14: Final follow-upCustomize it: Research your target blog and customize the pitch accordingly.
Skyscraper Technique Email
Purpose: Write outreach emails using the Skyscraper Technique Use case: When finding existing content to improve upon for links
ROLE: Link Building Strategist & Skyscraper Technique Expert
OBJECTIVE: Craft outreach emails using the Skyscraper Technique for [TARGET CONTENT].
CONTEXT:
The Skyscraper Technique involves:
1. Finding popular content in your niche
2. Creating something notably better
3. Reaching out to people who linked to the original
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Original content URL: [URL]
- Your improved content URL: [URL]
- Your content's advantages: [LIST IMPROVEMENTS]
- Target audience: [WHO YOU'RE REACHING OUT TO]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Be specific about what you improved
- Keep emails concise and value-focused
- Make the ask easy ("just update your link")
- Avoid appearing boastful—stay humble
- Personalize based on their content context
- Offer additional value (research, data, images)
OUTPUT FORMAT:
EMAIL TEMPLATE - Site Owners Who Linked to Original:
Subject: Quick question about your [TOPIC] resource
CODE:
Hi [NAME],
I was reading your [ARTICLE ABOUT TOPIC] and noticed you linked to [ORIGINAL CONTENT URL].
I recently published an updated version that I think your readers might find valuable: [YOUR CONTENT URL]
What's different:
- [IMPROVEMENT 1 - specific]
- [IMPROVEMENT 2 - specific]
- [IMPROVEMENT 3 - specific]
Since you already recommend [TOPIC] to your audience, I thought this might be a helpful update.
No pressure—just wanted to share in case you find it useful. If so, updating the link would mean a lot.
Thanks for considering,
[YOUR NAME]
END CODE
WHY THIS WORKS:
1. [REASON 1]
2. [REASON 2]
3. [REASON 3]
CUSTOMIZATION NOTES:
- [NOTE 1]
- [NOTE 2]
RESPONSE RATE OPTIMIZATION:
- Element: Subject line | Best Practice: Keep short, create curiosity
- Element: Email length | Best Practice: Under 150 words
- Element: Value proposition | Best Practice: Be specific, not vague
- Element: Call to action | Best Practice: Make it easy, low commitmentCustomize it: Identify the original content and your improved version for custom outreach.
HARO Pitch Writer
Purpose: Write effective responses to HARO (Help A Reporter Out) queries Use case: When building authority through expert quotes and mentions
ROLE: PR Specialist & HARO Response Expert
OBJECTIVE: Craft a compelling, quote-ready response to the following HARO query.
CONTEXT:
HARO (Help A Reporter Out) connects experts with journalists:
- Respond quickly (journalists work on deadlines)
- Be specific and quotable
- Demonstrate expertise without jargon
- Include credentials that matter
- Provide multiple angle options
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- HARO Query: [PASTE FULL QUERY]
- My expertise area: [YOUR NICHE]
- Key credentials to highlight: [LIST 2-3 RELEVANT ONES]
- Unique angle or story: [WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Respond within the same day if possible
- Keep response under 300 words
- Lead with your best quote/insight
- Include only relevant credentials
- Provide 1-2 specific data points or examples
- End with availability for follow-up
OUTPUT FORMAT:
RESPONSE DRAFT:
CODE:
Subject: RE: [QUERY TOPIC] - Expert Comment from [YOUR NAME]
Hi [JOURNALIST NAME],
Thank you for the query on [TOPIC]. I'd be happy to provide perspective.
[QUOTABLE INSIGHT #1 - 2-3 sentences with specific point]
[QUOTABLE INSIGHT #2 - 2-3 sentences with specific example]
My background: [RELEVANT CREDENTIAL - 1 sentence]
I'm available for follow-up if you'd like to discuss further.
Best regards,
[YOUR NAME]
[TITLE]
[COMPANY]
[EMAIL]
[PHONE - optional]
END CODE
QUOTE OPTIONS FOR JOURNALIST:
Option 1: [ANGLE NAME]
"[EXACT QUOTE - 20-30 words]"
Option 2: [ANGLE NAME]
"[EXACT QUOTE - 20-30 words]"
CREDENTIAL SOUND BITES:
- Credential: [CREDENTIAL] | How to Frame It: [FRAMING]
TIMING RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Query Deadline: Today | Best Response Time: Send within 2 hours
- Query Deadline: Tomorrow | Best Response Time: Send before 10 AM
- Query Deadline: This week | Best Response Time: Send within 24 hoursCustomize it: Paste the HARO query and your credentials for a ready-to-send response.
Content Strategy Workflow
These five prompts handle content planning, gaps, and refreshes.
Content Gap Analyzer
Purpose: Identify content opportunities your competitors rank for Use case: When planning content calendar or auditing coverage
ROLE: Content Strategy Analyst & Competitive Intelligence Expert
OBJECTIVE: Analyze competitor content and identify strategic gaps in your content coverage.
CONTEXT:
Content gap analysis reveals:
- Topics competitors rank for that you don't cover
- Keyword opportunities you're missing
- Content format gaps (guides vs. posts vs. tools)
- Authority weaknesses to address
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Your website: [URL]
- Competitor websites: [URL 1, URL 2, URL 3]
- Your primary keywords: [LIST 5-10 CORE KEYWORDS]
- Content types you create: [BLOGS/GUIDES/TOOLS/VIDEOS]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Focus on gaps that align with business goals
- Prioritize gaps with commercial intent
- Consider content quality, not just quantity
- Look for underserved topics you can dominate
- Balance quick wins with long-term authority building
OUTPUT FORMAT:
PRIORITY CONTENT GAPS:
Tier 1: High-Value Missing Topics:
- Gap Topic: [TOPIC] | Competitors: [URLS] | Volume: [X] | Intent: Transactional | Priority: 1
- Gap Topic: [TOPIC] | Competitors: [URLS] | Volume: [X] | Intent: Informational | Priority: 2
Tier 2: Secondary Opportunities:
- Gap Topic: [TOPIC] | Competitors: [URLS] | Volume: [X] | Intent: [TYPE] | Priority: [X]
Tier 3: Authority Builders:
- Gap Topic: [TOPIC] | Competitors: [URLS] | Why It Matters: [REASON] | Effort: High/Medium/Low
CONTENT TYPE GAP ANALYSIS:
- Content Type: Long-form guides | Your Count: [X] | Avg Competitor: [Y] | Gap: [DESCRIPTION]
- Content Type: How-to posts | Your Count: [X] | Avg Competitor: [Y] | Gap: [DESCRIPTION]
- Content Type: Comparison posts | Your Count: [X] | Avg Competitor: [Y] | Gap: [DESCRIPTION]
- Content Type: Tool/resource pages | Your Count: [X] | Avg Competitor: [Y] | Gap: [DESCRIPTION]
STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS:
Quick Wins (Existing Content Optimization):
1. [OPPORTUNITY 1]
2. [OPPORTUNITY 2]
Medium-Term Content Needs:
1. [TOPIC] - [WHY IT MATTERS]
2. [TOPIC] - [WHY IT MATTERS]
Long-Term Authority Plays:
1. [TOPIC] - [WHY IT MATTERS]
2. [TOPIC] - [WHY IT MATTERS]
PROJECTED IMPACT:
By addressing Tier 1 gaps, estimated traffic increase: X-X% over [TIMEFRAME].Customize it: List your competitors and core keywords for detailed gap analysis.
FAQ Generator (People Also Ask)
Purpose: Generate FAQ content for featured snippets and user value Use case: When optimizing for “People Also Ask” boxes
ROLE: SEO Content Strategist & FAQ Expert
OBJECTIVE: Generate comprehensive FAQ content for [TOPIC] optimized for "People Also Ask" featured snippets.
CONTEXT:
FAQ content:
- Qualifies for "People Also Ask" boxes
- Addresses user questions at all funnel stages
- Creates internal linking opportunities
- Improves dwell time and user satisfaction
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target topic: [PRIMARY TOPIC]
- Primary keyword: [KEYWORD]
- Search intent: [INFORMATIONAL/COMMERCIAL]
- Current FAQ content: [NONE OR EXISTING QUESTIONS]
- Competitor FAQs: [URLS - OPTIONAL]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Answer in 40-60 words for snippet eligibility
- Front-load answers with the key information
- Include keyword naturally in question and answer
- Structure questions as users actually ask them
- Cover all stages of the buyer's journey
- Include both basic and advanced questions
- Consider question modifiers (best, how, why, when)
OUTPUT FORMAT:
PRIMARY FAQS (High-Volume Queries):
Q1: [QUESTION - Exact from SERP]
A: [BETWEEN 40-60 WORDS. START WITH KEY ANSWER. INCLUDE KEYWORD.]
Q2: [QUESTION]
A: [ANSWER]
Q3: [QUESTION]
A: [ANSWER]
SECONDARY FAQS (Supporting Questions):
Q4: [QUESTION]
A: [ANSWER]
Q5: [QUESTION]
A: [ANSWER]
FUNNEL-BASED FAQ STRUCTURE:
Awareness Stage Questions:
- Question?
- Question?
Consideration Stage Questions:
- Question?
- Question?
Decision Stage Questions:
- Question?
- Question?
COMPETITOR FAQ ANALYSIS:
- Question: [QUESTION] | Competitor Answer: [ANSWER] | Improvement Opportunity: [ANGLE]Customize it: Specify your topic and target keyword for custom FAQ generation.
Content Refresh Planner
Purpose: Identify and plan content updates for aging posts Use case: When maintaining evergreen content or recovering declining traffic
ROLE: Content Refresh Strategist & SEO Maintenance Expert
OBJECTIVE: Create a content refresh plan for [TARGET PAGE URL].
CONTEXT:
Content refreshes:
- Recover declining organic traffic
- Update outdated information
- Improve rankings for target keywords
- Extend content lifecycle
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target page URL: [URL]
- Target keyword: [PRIMARY KEYWORD]
- Page age: [MONTHS/YEARS]
- Current ranking: [POSITION]
- Traffic decline: [PERCENTAGE - if applicable]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Preserve existing URL and link equity
- Update facts, statistics, and examples
- Improve readability and structure
- Add recent keyword variations
- Consider new subtopics to cover
- Update internal links to current content
- Refresh meta tags if needed
OUTPUT FORMAT:
CURRENT PAGE ANALYSIS:
- Metric: Word count | Current: [X] | Benchmark: [X,000] | Action: [KEEP/UPDATE]
- Metric: Content freshness | Current: [DATE] | Benchmark: Current | Action: Update if old
- Metric: Keyword ranking | Current: [POSITION] | Benchmark: Top 3 | Action: Optimize
- Metric: Backlinks | Current: [COUNT] | Benchmark: Varies | Action: Leverage
CONTENT REFRESH CHECKLIST:
Updates Required:
- Section: [SECTION] | Issue: Outdated stats | Update Needed: New data
- Section: [SECTION] | Issue: Old examples | Update Needed: Current examples
- Section: [SECTION] | Issue: Missing section | Update Needed: New section
Keyword Optimization:
- Element: Title tag | Current: [CURRENT] | Recommended: [NEW]
- Element: Meta description | Current: [CURRENT] | Recommended: [NEW]
- Element: H1 | Current: [CURRENT] | Recommended: [NEW]
- Element: H2s | Current: [CURRENT] | Recommended: [NEW]
Structural Improvements:
- [ ] Add table of contents
- [ ] Include comparison chart
- [ ] Update internal links to newer content
- [ ] Add FAQ section
- [ ] Include updated statistics
IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE:
- Task: Update statistics | Effort: 1 hour | Priority: High
- Task: Add new section | Effort: 2 hours | Priority: Medium
- Task: Rewrite intro | Effort: 30 min | Priority: Medium
- Task: Refresh meta | Effort: 15 min | Priority: Low
SUCCESS METRICS:
After refresh, monitor:
- Ranking position change (target: +X positions)
- Organic traffic change (target: +X%)
- Click-through rate improvement (target: +X%)Customize it: Provide your page URL and current performance for a custom refresh plan.
Cannibalization Checker
Purpose: Identify and resolve keyword cannibalization issues Use case: When multiple pages compete for the same keyword
ROLE: SEO Cannibalization Specialist & Site Architecture Expert
OBJECTIVE: Analyze [TARGET KEYWORD] for cannibalization and recommend consolidation or differentiation strategy.
CONTEXT:
Keyword cannibalization occurs when:
- Multiple pages target the same keyword
- Pages compete against each other in SERPs
- Link equity gets divided instead of concentrated
- Rankings suffer for all competing pages
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Target keyword: [KEYWORD]
- URLs potentially competing: [URL 1, URL 2, URL 3]
- Current ranking URLs: [LIST RANKING PAGES FROM GSC]
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Consolidate when pages can be merged
- Differentiate when pages serve different intents
- Preserve link equity when redirecting
- Consider user intent differences
- Maintain topical coverage breadth
- Document decision rationale
OUTPUT FORMAT:
CANNIBALIZATION ANALYSIS:
- URL: [URL] | Current Ranking: [POSITION] | Position Change: [+/-X] | Traffic: [X] | Links: [X]
- URL: [URL] | Current Ranking: [POSITION] | Position Change: [+/-X] | Traffic: [X] | Links: [X]
SEVERITY ASSESSMENT:
Level: MILD/MODERATE/SEVERE
Impact: X% of potential traffic lost to competition
STRATEGIC OPTIONS:
Option 1: Consolidate (Recommended if...)
- Action: Merge into single page | Pros: Concentrates authority | Cons: Requires 301 planning
Option 2: Differentiate (Recommended if...)
- Action: Target different keywords | Pros: Preserves both pages | Cons: Requires keyword research
RECOMMENDED APPROACH:
[CONSOLIDATE/DIFFERENTIATE] based on:
1. [REASON 1]
2. [REASON 2]
3. [REASON 3]
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN:
If Consolidating:
1. Choose survivor page: [URL]
2. 301 redirect losing page(s): [TO URL]
3. Update internal links: [PAGES TO UPDATE]
4. Monitor for 2-4 weeks: [METRICS]
If Differentiating:
1. Page 1 target: [NEW KEYWORD]
2. Page 2 target: [NEW KEYWORD]
3. Update meta tags: [BOTH PAGES]
4. Adjust content emphasis: [SPECIFIC CHANGES]Customize it: Identify competing pages for cannibalization analysis and resolution.
Local SEO Workflow
This prompt handles Google Business Profile optimization.
Local SEO GMB Post Writer
Purpose: Create optimized Google Business Profile posts Use case: When maintaining local presence and engagement
ROLE: Local SEO Specialist & Google Business Profile Expert
OBJECTIVE: Write an engaging, SEO-optimized Google Business Profile post for [BUSINESS NAME].
CONTEXT:
GMB posts:
- Boost local search visibility
- Drive engagement and actions
- Signal freshness to Google's algorithm
- Compete for local pack rankings
INPUTS I NEED FROM YOU:
- Business name: [BUSINESS NAME]
- Business category: [CATEGORY]
- Location: [CITY/REGION]
- Post type: [UPDATE/OFFER/EVENT/PRODUCT]
- Post goal: [AWARENESS/TRAFFIC/SALES]
Post-specific details:
- Offer post: Discount, promo code, expiry date
- Event post: Date, time, location, tickets
- Product post: Name, price, description
CONSTRAINTS & GUIDELINES:
- Posts appear for 7 days (default) or until event ends
- Include call-to-action (CTA) button
- Keep post under 150-300 words
- Include relevant keywords naturally
- Use professional but engaging tone
- Include offer codes or links where applicable
- Post 2-4 times per month minimum
OUTPUT FORMAT:
POST DRAFT:
Option 1: [POST TYPE]
[POST BODY - engaging, informative, includes CTA]
[CTA BUTTON: SHOP NOW/LEARN MORE/SIGN UP/CONTACT US]
Option 2: [VARIATION]
[POST BODY - different angle or emphasis]
[CTA BUTTON]
SEO OPTIMIZATION CHECKLIST:
- Element: Primary keyword | Included: Yes/No | Recommendation: Add [KEYWORD]
- Element: Location reference | Included: Yes/No | Recommendation: Add [CITY]
- Element: CTA button | Included: Yes/No | Recommendation: Use [BUTTON TYPE]
- Element: Offer code | Included: Yes/No | Recommendation: Include [CODE]
POSTING SCHEDULE RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Frequency: Weekly | Best For: Active businesses | Content Mix: Mix of updates and offers
- Frequency: Bi-weekly | Best For: Moderate activity | Content Mix: Focus on offers/events
- Frequency: Monthly | Best For: Low-competition | Content Mix: Major updates only
ENGAGEMENT OPTIMIZATION TIPS:
1. [TIP 1]
2. [TIP 2]
3. [TIP 3]Customize it: Specify your business type and post goal for custom GMB content.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Mistake #1: Asking for Ranking Guarantees
What it looks like: “Write me an SEO strategy that will guarantee first place for ‘best coffee machines’”
The fix: “Create an SEO content plan targeting mid-tail keywords for ‘espresso machines under $500’ with realistic timeline and success metrics”
Why it fails: No one can guarantee rankings. Google’s algorithm considers hundreds of factors. Promises of guaranteed rankings are red flags. AI gives you strategic direction, but execution, competitiveness, and time determine outcomes.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Specific Context
What it looks like: “Give me keyword research for my website” (no URL, no industry, no current rankings)
The fix: Provide your website URL, primary business model, target audience, and current ranking data. The AI can only work with what you give it.
Why it fails: Generic prompts get generic responses. Without context, the AI can’t prioritize what’s actually valuable for your business.
Mistake #3: Asking AI to Predict the Future
What it looks like: “What will Google’s algorithm update in March 2026 focus on?”
The fix: Instead ask: “What have been the consistent ranking factors across Google’s core updates, and how should I prioritize my SEO efforts based on established best practices?”
Why it fails: AI models have knowledge cutoffs and can’t predict future events. They can analyze patterns and historical data, but not predict announcements.
The bottom line: I’ve learned the hard way that specificity matters. The difference between “help me with SEO” and “audit my blog for keyword cannibalization targeting ‘project management software’ and suggest consolidation strategies” is the difference between wasted time and instant solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can AI really improve my SEO rankings?
Absolutely—but with caveats. AI excels at tasks that involve analysis, pattern recognition, and content generation based on established best practices. What AI won’t do is beat competitors who have superior products, more authoritative backlinks, or deeper market penetration. Think of AI as a force multiplier for your existing SEO strategy, not a replacement for fundamentals.
The key is using AI for the right tasks: keyword research, content optimization, technical audits, and competitive analysis. Then apply human judgment for strategy, relationship building, and creative differentiation.
Q: Which AI tool is best for SEO in 2026?
For most SEO workflows, ChatGPT-4 and Claude 3 offer excellent reasoning and output quality. Gemini integrates well with Google tools and data sources. For data-heavy SEO tasks, consider Perplexity for research with citations.
The best tool depends on your workflow. I use Claude for strategic planning and content creation, ChatGPT for quick optimizations, and Gemini when I need to quickly analyze data alongside Google tools.
Q: How do I avoid keyword cannibalization?
Start by auditing your existing content with a tool like Ahrefs or SEMrush. Look for pages competing for the same keywords. Then decide: consolidate into one comprehensive resource, or differentiate by targeting slightly different keyword variations.
The cannibalization checker prompt in this guide will help you identify and resolve these issues systematically. Prevention is easier than cure—before creating new content, search your site for similar existing pages.
Q: How long does it take to see results from SEO prompts?
Realistically, 3-6 months for noticeable ranking improvements. Technical fixes might show results in 2-4 weeks. Content improvements typically take 8-12 weeks to impact rankings. Link building results compound over 6-12 months.
The prompts in this toolkit accelerate the work, but SEO remains a long-term game. Use these prompts to work smarter and faster, but maintain consistent effort over time.
Q: Should I use these prompts for client work?
Yes—with disclosure. If you’re an agency or consultant, using AI to draft strategies, audits, and recommendations is increasingly standard practice. The value you provide is in interpretation, strategy customization, and execution oversight.
Always be transparent with clients about your process. Frame AI as a productivity tool that allows you to serve them better and faster, not as a replacement for your expertise.
Conclusion
Let’s recap what we covered: 24 prompts organized by workflow—keyword research, content optimization, technical SEO, link building, content strategy, and local SEO. Each prompt is designed to be copy-paste ready, with clear role definitions, context setting, and structured outputs.
Key takeaways:
- Treat AI as an expert consultant, not a magic wand—provide context and constraints
- Use the 5-component framework (Role, Context, Task, Constraints, Output Format) for every prompt
- Focus on workflows that match your biggest SEO challenges
- Combine AI analysis with human judgment for strategy decisions
- Test prompts, refine them, and build your own library of what works
My final advice: Be annoyingly specific in your prompts. The difference between “fix my SEO” and “audit our blog for keyword cannibalization targeting ‘project management software’ and suggest consolidation strategies” is the difference between wasted time and instant solutions.
For advanced prompt engineering techniques, learn how to master meta-prompting to create prompts that generate even better prompts.
The SEOs winning in 2026 aren’t the ones working harder—they’re the ones leveraging AI to work smarter. Master these prompts, adapt them to your niche, and build your own system.
Ready to rank higher? Start with these three prompts this week:
- Run the Content Gap Analyzer to find your biggest opportunities
- Use the Keyword Clusterizer to plan your next quarter of content
- Deploy the Featured Snippet Optimizer on your highest-traffic pages
Bookmark this guide. Come back when you need a specific SEO task tackled—you’ll find the exact prompt you need.
Last Updated: 2026-01-26