# Content Structure Templates

Compact blueprints for common SEO formats. Replace placeholders, keep the primary keyword in the H1 and first 100 words, and remove sections that do not match intent.

## Shared Build Rules

| Element | Include |
|---------|---------|
| Opening | Hook, problem, promise, primary keyword early |
| Proof | Data, examples, quotes, first-hand experience, or source/date citations |
| Structure | Clear H2/H3 hierarchy, short paragraphs, tables only for decisions |
| GEO | 40-60 word definition block, quotable takeaways, FAQ for long-tail retrieval |
| Links | 3-5 internal links and 2-3 authoritative external links unless format needs more |
| Ending | Recap, recommendation, and one next step or CTA |

## Blueprint Matrix

| Format | Goal | Required sections |
|--------|------|-------------------|
| Blog post | Informational ranking | H1, intro, definition, why it matters, main sections, mistakes, FAQ, conclusion |
| Comparison | Help reader choose | Quick verdict, comparison table, option summaries, category winners, pricing, final verdict |
| Listicle | Rank for `best [topic]` | Summary table, criteria, repeated item cards, comparison, top pick |
| How-to | Teach process | Tools/time/skill level, numbered steps, examples, troubleshooting, FAQ |
| Product review | Buyer decision | Testing context, overview, pros/cons, features, performance, pricing, competitor comparison, verdict |
| Pillar page | Cluster hub | TOC, fundamentals, subtopics, tactics, examples, FAQ, resources |
| FAQ page | Question ranking and FAQ rich results | Intro, grouped questions, direct answers, advanced questions, CTA |

## Copy-Start Matrix

| Format | Minimal starter |
|--------|-----------------|
| Blog post | `# [Keyword]: [Benefit]` -> hook -> `## What Is [Topic]?` -> 40-60 word definition -> main sections -> mistakes -> FAQ -> conclusion |
| Comparison | `# [A] vs [B]` -> quick answer -> feature/pricing tables -> category winners -> choose A/B criteria -> verdict |
| Listicle | `# [Number] Best [Items] for [Audience]` -> summary table -> criteria -> repeated item cards -> comparison -> top pick |
| How-to | `# How to [Goal]` -> tools/time/level -> steps -> examples -> troubleshooting -> FAQ -> next step |
| Product review | `# [Product] Review` -> testing context -> performance results -> pros/cons -> features -> pricing/competitors -> buyer fit -> verdict |
| Pillar page | `# [Topic]: Complete Guide` -> TOC -> fundamentals -> subtopics -> frameworks -> FAQ -> resources |
| FAQ page | `# [Topic]: Frequently Asked Questions` -> grouped questions -> concise answers -> comparison/pricing -> CTA |

## Section Blocks

| Block | Pattern |
|-------|---------|
| Definition | 40-60 words, direct answer, source/date when factual |
| Summary table | Key decision fields only; avoid decoration |
| Proof callout | `Key insight: [stat/claim + source/date]` |
| FAQ answer | 40-60 words; answer first, detail second |
| CTA | One next step tied to search intent |

## Implementation Checklist

- [ ] Replace placeholders and remove irrelevant sections.
- [ ] Put the primary keyword in H1 and first 100 words.
- [ ] Use secondary keywords naturally in H2/H3s.
- [ ] Add proof, examples, source/date citations, or data.
- [ ] Include FAQ and definition blocks when useful for GEO retrieval.
- [ ] Add internal/external links and descriptive image alt text.
- [ ] Include affiliate disclosure when applicable.
- [ ] Finish with meta title and description matching the final angle.