Starting a blog can feel like staring at a blank page that won’t blink first. Whether it’s your very first post or you’re coming back after a break, it’s totally normal to feel stuck. In this post, you’ll learn how to write a blog post that not only gets your ideas out clearly but actually gets read. We’ll walk through a beginner-friendly process, introduce you to common types of blog posts and give you a blog post outline that works every time.
Writing doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is having a structure that helps you break things down, instead of spinning your wheels. And with a few easy tools and tips, you’ll not only publish a post, you’ll build the confidence to do it again and again.
Choose Your Blog Post Type First
Before you start writing, figure out what kind of post you’re about to create. This helps you stay focused and shape your message.
Here are a few popular types of blog posts:
- How-to guides: Teach your readers to do something step-by-step
- Listicles: Provide a list of tips, tools, or ideas
- Opinion pieces: Share your personal take on a trending topic
- Product reviews: Break down the pros and cons of something you’ve tried
- Personal stories: Help readers connect with your journey
Choosing your post type early on gives you a sense of direction. It’s like deciding on a recipe before you start grabbing ingredients.
👉 Download this free guide: Types of Blog Posts & When to Use Them
Brainstorm and Pick a Keyword That Matter
A strong post starts with a strong idea and the right keyword.
You don’t need expensive tools to find one. Start with Google’s search suggestions or People Also Ask boxes. Then check out:
- AnswerThePublic – Great for topic questions
- Ubersuggest – Good for keyword volume
- [Keywords Everywhere Chrome Extension] – Adds keyword data to your browser
- If you’re stuck on finding keywords, try the “People also ask” feature within Google. It’s a great way to brainstorm new keyword ideas.
When choosing your keyword, consider:
- Relevance: Is it something your audience cares about?
- Search volume: Are people actually searching for it?
- Difficulty: Can you realistically rank for it?
👉 For this post, the primary keyword is how to write a blog post.
👉 The secondary keywords used in this post are types of blog posts, and blog post outline. You’ll see them sprinkled through out the text.
Use a phrase naturally throughout your article, but don’t stuff it. Aim for 1.0 to 2.0% keyword density. You goal is to look natural but not “spammy.”
Use a Simple Blog Post Outline (That You Can Reuse!)
No need to reinvent the wheel. A simple blog post outline keeps your ideas from turning into a ramble.
Reusable Blog Post Outline:
- Title – Use emotional and power words that add to your primary keyword
- Intro – Hook the reader and explain what they’ll learn
- Body (H2s & H3s) – Break content into digestible sections
- Bullets/lists – Make complex ideas scannable
- Conclusion – Summarize key takeaways
- CTA – Tell your reader what to do next (download, subscribe, etc.)
By outlining your post first, you’re not starting from zero. You’re following a map. 👉 Download this free guide: Blog Post Outline PDF
What Are H2 and H3 Tags (And Why They Matter)?
Think of H2s and H3s like signs on a hiking trail. They guide your reader.
- H2 tags are your main subheadings
- H3 tags are supporting points beneath an H2
They help both humans and search engines understand your content. Readers can skim. Google can rank it.
Here’s a tip: Use your primary keyword in 30% of your H2 and H3 headings. That helps boost your SEO without being obvious or spammy. Also, keep your headings clear not clever. “Why I Blog” might be cute, but “Benefits of Starting a Blog” is clear and more helpful.
Add Images With Alt Text (That Helps SEO Too!)
Images break up the content, add personality, and help readers stay engaged. Don’t write a novel without pictures.
Image Tips:
- File format: Use .jpg or .png
- Ideal size: 1200 x 800 px (works for both desktop and mobile)
- Keep file sizes under 200KB if possible (for faster page load)
Every image should include alt text for accessibility and SEO.
Alt Text Example (with keyword):
Alt: A simple outline showing how to write a blog post
Bonus tip: Rename your image files with your keyword before uploading.
Write With Simplicity, Not Simplicity’s Cousin: Boring
Yes, you’re writing for beginners, but that doesn’t mean boring.
- Keep your tone friendly and helpful
- Use short paragraphs (2 to 4 lines)
- Vary your sentence length to keep the rhythm interesting
Avoid common traps:
- Fluffy advice like “just be yourself”
- Corporate-speak like “leveraging innovative solutions”
- Overloaded intros that never get to the point
Do this instead:
- Lead with a clear benefit
- Write like you talk (but edit like a pro)
- Use bold text to highlight one main takeaway per section
Add a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
Even the best blog post can fall flat if it doesn’t tell readers what to do next. Don’t leave them wondering.
A CTA should be simple, actionable, and tied to the content.
CTA Examples:
- Download your free Blog Post Outline
- Grab the Blogging Dictionary to decode the lingo
- Read the next post: How to Pick the Perfect Niche
Make your CTA button stand out with contrast colors and clear text like “Download Now” or “Start Your Blog.”
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Writing doesn’t have to be scary. With a clear plan, a good outline, and a keyword that makes sense, you can publish posts that you’re proud of and your readers will appreciate it too.
The secret to success? Start small. One post. One topic. One clear takeaway.
Your first blog post doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be published.
And if you’ve made it this far, you’re already ahead of most beginners.
So now, take a deep breath, trust your voice, and hit “Publish.”
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Happiness
