The On-Page SEO Checklist Every Page Should Pass
A 25-point checklist for optimizing title tags, headings, internal links, images, and schema on every page you publish.
On-page SEO is the most controllable lever you have. Unlike backlinks or domain authority, you can fix every item on this list today. Run through it before publishing any new page.
Title and Meta
Unique title tag under 60 characters, with the primary keyword near the front. Meta description under 160 characters that promises a specific benefit. Single H1 per page matching search intent.
Headings and Structure
Logical H2/H3 hierarchy. Each H2 should map to a question a reader is asking. Avoid skipping levels (don't jump from H2 to H4).
Internal Linking
Link to 3–5 related pages on your site with descriptive anchor text. Avoid 'click here.' Internal links spread authority and help crawlers understand topic clusters.
Images
Compressed WebP or AVIF format, descriptive file names, alt text that describes the image (not stuffed with keywords). Width and height attributes to prevent layout shift.
Schema Markup
Article schema for posts, Product schema for shop pages, FAQPage where relevant. JSON-LD is the format Google prefers.
Technical Basics
Canonical tag, mobile-friendly viewport, HTTPS, fast LCP, no broken links. These are non-negotiable.
