If your content isn’t ranking the way it should, chances are it’s not a keyword problem it’s an on-page SEO problem.
At SEO Vizon, I’ve worked directly with businesses of all sizes from local startups to growing national brands. One thing I’ve consistently seen? When pages fail to rank, it’s almost always because they skipped the fundamentals.
This guide isn’t based on theory or guesswork. It’s the same checklist I use when optimizing real client websites, delivering real results.
On-Page SEO Checklist
Let’s dive into top On Page SEO Checklist:
1. Craft a Clear, Keyword-Rich Title Tag
Your title tag is the first impression you make in search results. It influences rankings and clicks. Here is the Checklist:
- Keep it under 60 characters
- Put your main keyword near the beginning
- Use language that shows value or solves a problem
💡 What I see often: Generic titles like “Home” or “Our Services.” Those are missed opportunities.
2. Write a Compelling Meta Description
Google may not always show your meta description, but when it does, a good one boosts click-through rate which can affect rankings over time. Make sure it:
- Contains your primary keyword
- Explains what the page offers
- Stays under 155 characters
- Includes a clear benefit or next step
3. Use One Clear H1 Tag
Only one H1 per page and it should set the topic for the entire page. Do this:
- Match the H1 to your main keyword
- Make it helpful, not stuffed
- Don’t duplicate your title tag word for word rephrase with clarity
4. Structure Content with H2s and H3s
Most people scan content. Proper headings make your page easier to read and understand for both users and search engines. How I use them:
- H2s for main sections
- H3s for subpoints or lists
- Naturally include related keywords in headers
💡 I often run my headings through a readability test if a child can’t understand it, I rewrite it.
5. Place Your Main Keyword in the First 100 Words
Search engines want to know early what your page is about. Don’t wait until paragraph five. Best practice:
- Mention the keyword within the first 1–2 sentences
- Keep it natural write for people, not bots
6. Use Clean, Keyword-Friendly URLs
Your URL should describe what the page is about. Keep it:
- Short and descriptive
- Keyword-rich
- Free of unnecessary numbers or symbols
✅ Example: yourdomain.com/on-page-seo-checklist ❌ Example: yourdomain.com/page?id=9342&ref=seo
7. Use Internal Links Strategically
Internal linking helps to understand what is your page is about:
- Guide visitors to related content
- Keep users on your site longer
- Spread link equity across pages
My approach:
- Link naturally inside content
- Use descriptive anchor text
- Link to both top-performing pages and those that need support
8. Include External Links to Trusted Sources
Google likes when you cite credible sources it shows you’re part of a larger web of relevant content. Use external links to:
- Reference data or studies
- Support your claims
- Guide readers to helpful tools or definition
- Stick to trustworthy domains (e.g., .gov, .edu, reputable industry sites).
9. Optimize Your Images for SEO
Images enhance content, but unoptimized images slow your site and hurt your rankings. Every image should:
- Use descriptive filenames (e.g., on-page-seo-checklist.png)
- Include alt text (helpful for both SEO and accessibility)
- Be compressed for speed (use tools like TinyPNG or Squoosh)
10. Make Sure Your Page Is Mobile-Responsive
Google uses mobile-first indexing if your page doesn’t work on mobile, you’re at a disadvantage. Here are some useful Tips:
- Test across multiple devices
- Use large, legible fonts
- Make sure buttons and links are easy to tap
💡 One quick test: If you have to zoom in to read something on mobile, it needs fixing.
11. Improve Page Load Speed
A slow site frustrates visitors and hurts rankings. Speed is non-negotiable in 2025. Use tools like:
- Google PageSpeed Insights
- GTmetrix
- WebPageTest
- Quick wins:
- Compress images
- Remove unused code
- Use lazy loading and fast hosting
12. Add a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
Every page should have a purpose. Whether it’s to book a call, download a guide, or read another article guide the user. Effective CTAs:
- Are relevant to the content
- Use action words (“Get started,” “Download now”)
- Stand out visually on the page
✅ Final Thoughts:
On-Page SEO Is the Part You Control Search algorithms change all the time but on-page SEO is something you can fully control. It’s your opportunity to:
- Align with what users are searching for
- Create a better experience for real humans
- Give search engines every reason to rank you
I use this exact checklist in every SEO campaign I run. It’s simple, reliable, and effective because SEO doesn’t have to be complicated to work.
Want Me to Review Your Pages? If you want expert feedback on your site’s SEO, I offer hands-on on-page audits that show exactly what to fix and how to fix it.
👉 [Click here to book a free discovery call]
Let’s make sure every page on your site is fully optimized to rank, convert, and grow.
