How to Do SEO? (2025 Updated Guide)

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is a comprehensive process aimed at helping websites achieve better rankings on Google and other search engines. As of 2025, SEO is shaped by AI-powered algorithms, user experience–focused ranking factors, and E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trustworthiness) criteria. The SEO process consists of multiple steps such as technical optimization, content strategy, link building (backlinks), and improvements in user experience. Below, we will address the fundamental components of SEO in 15 points and explain step by step how to implement SEO.

How to Do SEO? (15 Tried and Tested Steps)

1. Conduct Keyword Research.
2. Perform Competitor Analysis.
3. Implement Technical SEO Optimization.
4. Apply On-Page SEO.
5. Create High-Quality, SEO-Friendly Content.
6. Improve User Experience (UX) and Core Web Vitals.
7. Ensure Mobile Compatibility.
8. Optimize Site Speed.
9. Utilize an Internal Linking Strategy.
10. Develop an External Linking (Backlink) Strategy.
11. Optimize for Local SEO.
12. Implement Voice Search Optimization.
13. Incorporate AI and Machine Learning into Your SEO Strategy.
14. Monitor and Analyze SEO Performance.
15. Continuously Update and Adapt Your SEO Strategy.

Conduct Keyword Research

The success of SEO begins with identifying the right keywords. If I target the wrong keywords, I reach the wrong audience, attract irrelevant traffic, and lower conversion rates. Therefore, I use SEO analysis tools such as Google Search Console, Ahrefs, Semrush, and Ubersuggest to determine keywords with high search volume and appropriate competition levels. Instead of generic keywords, I focus on long-tail keywords such as “best running shoes of 2025” to gain a competitive advantage. I also analyze user search intent to determine whether they are looking for information or are ready to make a purchase.

Steps in Keyword Research

1. Identify keywords with high search volume and appropriate competition levels.
2. Utilize tools like Google Search Console, Ahrefs, Semrush, and Ubersuggest.
3. Focus on long-tail keywords.
4. Analyze user search intent.

Perform Competitor Analysis

One of the most important ways to succeed in SEO is to analyze competitors’ strategies and leverage their strengths. I review leading competitors in the industry, analyze which keywords they rank for, their content strategies, and backlink sources. Using tools like Ahrefs and Semrush, I determine which keywords my competitors are excelling in. I closely examine their content to see which titles they use, which questions they answer, and which backlinks they obtain. If a competitor is successful in a particular area, rather than ignoring it, I focus on making my own content more comprehensive and valuable.

Steps in Competitor Analysis

1. Analyze competitors’ keyword strategies.
2. Identify the keywords they rank for using Ahrefs and Semrush.
3. Examine their content to evaluate which titles and formats they use.
4. Analyze their backlink profiles and target similar sources.
5. Observe their areas of success and focus on producing even better content.

Implement Technical SEO Optimization

Technical SEO includes adjustments made to help search engines crawl and index a website more effectively. When technical SEO is lacking, even the best content might not get noticed or rank well by Google. For this reason, I create an XML Sitemap and upload it to Google Search Console so that Google understands which pages need to be indexed. I also configure the robots.txt file to determine which pages search engines should crawl. Additionally, I simplify the URL structure to be clean and SEO-friendly. For example, I use clear, short, and keyword-rich URLs like site.com/how-to-do-seo. By applying these technical optimizations, I build a strong foundation for Google to better understand the site and improve its rankings.

Steps in Technical SEO Optimization

1. Create an XML Sitemap and upload it to Google Search Console.
2. Configure the robots.txt file to specify which pages should be crawled.
3. Simplify URL structures to be clear, understandable, and keyword-rich.
4. Implement technical optimizations to help Google better understand the pages.
5. Check crawlability with Javascript SEO Optimization.

Apply On-Page SEO

On-Page SEO encompasses optimization techniques that help Google understand and rank your content. Instead of merely adding keywords, I consider both user experience and search engine expectations. I clearly structure content by properly using title tags (H1, H2, H3). I optimize meta descriptions to be unique and engaging to increase click-through rates. I naturally integrate keywords without overdoing it. I add alt text to images so that Google can interpret them, and I simplify the URL structure to be SEO-friendly. When I correctly implement on-page SEO, Google indexes my content faster and users can consume it more easily.

Steps in On-Page SEO

• I correctly use title tags (H1, H2, H3).

• I optimize meta descriptions.

• I add keywords naturally and in balance.

• I use alt text for images.

• I simplify the URL structure to be SEO-friendly.

Create High-Quality, SEO-Friendly Content

SEO success is driven by producing high-quality content. Google’s 2025 algorithms indicate that ranking with superficial or artificial content is increasingly difficult. Therefore, I prepare my content in accordance with E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trustworthiness) criteria. I offer insights based on real experiences and quote reliable sources. I focus on the questions users frequently ask and incorporate these into my content by examining Google’s “People Also Ask” section. Instead of being superficial, I prepare detailed and comprehensive content. I enrich my content with images, videos, and tables so that users stay on the page longer. My priority in SEO is to create content that is valuable for users and then optimize it for SEO.

Steps in Creating SEO-Friendly Content

• I prepare content in line with E-E-A-T criteria.

• I answer frequently asked questions by users.

• I ensure the content is comprehensive and valuable, not superficial.

• I enrich the content with images, videos, and tables.

• I write for the user first, then optimize for SEO.

Google places significant emphasis not only on content quality but also on user experience (UX). Therefore, I focus on improving Core Web Vitals metrics in my SEO efforts. I optimize the Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) to ensure that the main content loads in under 2.5 seconds. I reduce the First Input Delay (FID) to ensure that users can interact quickly with buttons and menus. I address Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) issues to prevent layout shifts during page loading, reducing accidental clicks. Additionally, I create a clean and intuitive design to avoid complexity. A site with poor user experience suffers in Google rankings and sees a higher bounce rate. Thus, I pay as much attention to the user-centric side of SEO as I do to its technical aspects.

Steps to Optimize User Experience and Core Web Vitals

• I improve the Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) to under 2.5 seconds.

• I reduce the First Input Delay (FID) for faster interactions.

• I address Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) issues to prevent page shifts.

• I design the website to be clean, intuitive, and user-friendly.

• I focus on improving user experience to lower the bounce rate.

Ensure Mobile Compatibility

Since Google has shifted to mobile-first indexing, mobile compatibility has become a necessity. A site that does not perform well on mobile devices will suffer significant ranking drops. Therefore, I regularly check my website with Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test. I use responsive design to ensure that the page works seamlessly on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. I add readable fonts and easily clickable buttons to prevent difficulties on small screens. Additionally, I consider using AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) technology, particularly for news and blog content, to improve loading speed. A mobile-friendly site not only provides SEO benefits but also ensures that users stay on the site longer.

Steps to Ensure Mobile Compatibility

• I regularly check the site using Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.

• I implement responsive design to ensure compatibility across all devices.

• I use readable fonts and easily clickable buttons.

• I consider using AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) technology.

• I enhance the mobile user experience to gain a ranking advantage.

Optimize Site Speed

Google uses page speed as a critical ranking factor. A slow-loading website not only harms SEO performance but also reduces the time users spend on the site. Therefore, I prioritize speed optimization. I compress images and save them in WebP format, remove unnecessary code and JavaScript files, and use browser caching to shorten load times for repeat visitors. I also utilize a CDN (Content Delivery Network) to serve content faster from different servers. By increasing site speed, I improve both my SEO rankings and user experience.

Steps to Optimize Site Speed

• I compress images and use the WebP format.

• I remove unnecessary code and JavaScript files.

• I implement browser caching.

• I use a CDN (Content Delivery Network) to speed up content delivery.

• I improve page load times to enhance SEO and user experience.

Utilize an Internal Linking Strategy

Internal links connect pages within the website, strengthening both user experience and SEO. With the right internal linking strategy, I help Google better understand the site structure and speed up the indexing of pages. By linking related content, I encourage users to view more pages. I use descriptive anchor texts (instead of generic phrases like “click here,” I use “SEO optimization guide”) for the links. I facilitate navigation by linking from the homepage to subpages and avoid orphan pages by ensuring every page has at least one internal link. Effective use of internal linking helps Google understand the site structure better and keeps users on the site longer.

Steps for an Effective Internal Linking Strategy

• I connect related pieces of content.

• I create links using keyword-appropriate anchor texts.

• I link from the homepage to subpages to enhance navigation.

• I avoid orphan pages by supporting every page with internal links.

• I strengthen SEO by helping Google better understand the site structure.

Develop an External Linking (Backlink) Strategy

Backlinks serve as a trust signal to Google and, when managed correctly, improve rankings. However, links from low-quality or spammy sites can harm SEO. Therefore, I focus on obtaining backlinks from authoritative and trustworthy websites. I use tools like Ahrefs and Semrush to analyze where competitors are obtaining their backlinks and aim to secure links from similar sources. I employ a guest posting strategy to contribute to authoritative websites in my field and gain natural backlinks. I also turn broken links into opportunities by identifying outdated links and suggesting updated content. Additionally, I share my content on social media to increase the chances of earning organic backlinks. A properly managed backlink strategy strengthens the site’s authority and boosts rankings in Google.

Steps for a Backlink Strategy

• I focus on acquiring backlinks from authoritative and trustworthy sites.

• I analyze competitors’ backlink profiles using Ahrefs and Semrush.

• I obtain natural backlinks through guest posting.

• I identify broken links and suggest replacing them with updated content.

• I increase my chances of earning organic backlinks through social media sharing.

Optimize for Local SEO

For businesses offering local services, local SEO efforts are extremely important. To rank higher on Google, I fully complete my Google My Business profile, ensuring that the business name, address, phone number, operating hours, and descriptions are accurate and up-to-date. I target local keywords in my content, such as “SEO consultancy in Istanbul.” I also manage customer reviews and encourage positive feedback, as reviews are a major ranking factor for local SEO. Additionally, I list my business in local directories and register on maps and business guides. These efforts help me achieve higher rankings in Google Maps and organic search results.

Steps for Local SEO Optimization

• I keep my Google My Business profile complete and updated.

• I target local keywords in my content.

• I manage customer reviews and encourage positive feedback.

• I register my business on local directory sites to increase visibility.

• I continuously optimize to rank higher on Google Maps.

Implement Voice Search Optimization

By 2025, a significant portion of Google searches are conducted via voice commands. Therefore, I adjust my SEO strategy to align with the voice search trend by creating content that uses natural, conversational language. Since voice searches typically involve long, conversational questions (for example, “How is SEO done in 2025?”), I incorporate such phrases into my content. I focus on Google’s “People Also Ask” section by preparing Q&A formatted content that provides direct and clear answers. Additionally, I structure my content with Schema Markup so that Google can better understand it. By optimizing for voice search, I reach mobile and smart assistant users more easily, gaining a competitive advantage.

Steps for Voice Search Optimization

• I produce content with long, natural sentences.

• I prepare Q&A formatted content to provide direct answers.

• I create content that aligns with Google’s “People Also Ask” section.

• I use Schema Markup to structure my content.

• I focus on voice search trends to reach mobile and smart assistant users.

Incorporate AI and Machine Learning into Your SEO Strategy

Google’s algorithms are increasingly sophisticated with AI and machine learning. To leverage these technologies in my SEO efforts, I closely follow Google’s AI-based algorithms. Systems like BERT and RankBrain analyze the meaning and context of content, so I base my SEO strategy not solely on keywords but on creating content that aligns with user intent. I use AI-powered SEO tools (such as Clearscope and SurferSEO) for content analysis and optimization. Additionally, I evaluate user behavior through data analysis to determine which pages receive the most interaction and adjust my strategy accordingly. AI-supported SEO enables me to make data-driven decisions and render my content more strategic.

Steps for AI-Powered SEO

• I follow Google’s AI-based algorithms (BERT, RankBrain).

• I perform content analysis with AI-powered tools like Clearscope and SurferSEO.

• I optimize my SEO strategy based on data analysis of user behavior.

• I produce content focused on user intent rather than just keywords.

• I make data-driven decisions using AI-supported SEO techniques.

Monitor and Analyze SEO Performance

To understand whether my SEO efforts are effective, I regularly analyze and measure performance.

• I review organic traffic data with Google Analytics. Which pages attract more visitors? Which keywords drive more conversions?
• I track my keyword rankings with Google Search Console. I identify keywords that are declining and work on improvements.
• I analyze my backlink profile using Ahrefs and Semrush, identifying and removing low-quality links.

By regularly analyzing SEO performance, I update my strategy to achieve better results.

Continuously Update and Adapt Your SEO Strategy

SEO is a constantly changing field, so it is essential to regularly review and update strategies. Since Google’s algorithms frequently change, I closely follow these updates and adapt my strategy accordingly. I conduct regular competitor analyses to evaluate who is excelling in the industry and which methods they are using. I update my content regularly, refreshing old posts to maintain their relevance and value. As an SEO Consultant, I believe the key to success in SEO is to quickly adapt to changes and continuously make improvements.

Steps to Update Your SEO Strategy

• I follow Google’s algorithm updates.

• I adapt my strategy to major changes.

• I conduct regular competitor analyses to evaluate industry trends.

• I update my content regularly and optimize older posts.

• I continuously improve my SEO strategy to quickly adapt to changes.

What Should You Know About SEO?

To learn SEO, you must first understand how search engines work, Google’s algorithms, and the fundamental ranking factors. Topics such as keyword research, technical SEO, content optimization, backlink strategies, and user experience are the cornerstones of SEO. Additionally, learning how to use tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, Ahrefs, and Semrush is critical for analyzing and improving SEO performance.

Is SEO Difficult to Do?

SEO is a process that requires time and strategy because it involves keeping up with constantly changing algorithms and competition. However, once you learn the basic principles and use the right tools, managing SEO becomes feasible. With regular analysis, content optimization, and technical improvements, it is possible to succeed in SEO. The difficulty level may vary depending on the industry and the level of competition.For detailed information about auto spare parts SEO study, please check out the link above.