SEO Content Brief Prompt for Writers

This seo content brief prompt builds a complete writer brief: outline, keywords, word count, and SERP gaps. Enter the topic, paste into any AI tool.

The prompt

Role:
Act as an SEO content strategist who writes briefs freelance writers love.

Context:
Target keyword: [TARGET_KEYWORD]. Search intent: [SEARCH_INTENT]. Audience: [AUDIENCE]. Target word count: [WORD_COUNT]. Top competing pages: [COMPETING_URLS].

Task:
1. Analyze the likely SERP for [TARGET_KEYWORD] and list 3 content gaps competitors miss.
2. Build a full outline: H1, H2s, and H3s, with a one-line writing instruction under each heading.
3. Assign primary and secondary keywords to specific sections.
4. Specify intro requirements (hook type, length), 5 FAQ questions, 3 internal link suggestions, and image/alt-text needs.
5. Define acceptance criteria: what makes this draft publishable.
6. Estimate a realistic writing time and flag sections needing expert review.

Format:
- Objective
- Outline (with per-heading instructions)
- Keyword map
- Assets needed
- Acceptance criteria

Constraints:
- Every H2 must map to a distinct subtopic or intent; no filler headings.
- FAQ questions must be phrased as real user queries.
- The brief must be usable by a writer with zero SEO knowledge.
- No generic advice; every instruction must be specific to [TARGET_KEYWORD].

Variables to fill in

Replace each [variable] in the prompt with your own details:

[TARGET_KEYWORD] [SEARCH_INTENT] [AUDIENCE] [WORD_COUNT] [COMPETING_URLS]

Example input

TARGET_KEYWORD: how to lower resting heart rate; SEARCH_INTENT: informational; AUDIENCE: adults 30-55 improving cardio health; WORD_COUNT: 2200; COMPETING_URLS: healthline.com, webmd.com, verywellfit.com

How to use this prompt

Copy the prompt. Fill in the keyword and competing URLs. Paste into any AI tool, review the outline, then hand the brief to a writer.

Tips for the best results

Tip: Paste 2-3 competitor outlines into the prompt for sharper gap analysis.
Tip: Lock the H1 and intro angle before the writer starts — rewrites cost the most there.
Tip: Reuse the acceptance criteria as the QA checklist when the draft returns.