Audit the SERP before you write

Audit the SERP before you write

Today's lesson: the SERP — the search engine results page, everything you see after hitting enter — tells you what Google wants for a keyword. Read it first, write second.

Think of it like checking the dress code before a party.

Your audit checklist:
1. Search your target keyword in a private browser window so old habits don't skew it.
2. Write down which features appear: image pack, video carousel, People Also Ask, a shopping row.
3. Note the type of top pages — are they how-to guides, lists, or product pages?

If videos and questions dominate, a plain text wall won't fit. Match the format the page is already rewarding.

Try this: audit one keyword and list every feature you spot, top to bottom. 🎓