TLDR / Key Summary:
- Topical authority means Google trusts you as an expert on a subject.
- It boosts rankings, improves click-through rates, and drives long-term traffic.
- The fastest path: Create 20 strategic articles covering the core of your niche.
- Follow this structure and you’ll own your topic in the eyes of both readers and search engines.
If you’re tired of chasing low-intent keywords and want to actually own your niche, you need topical authority. Not kinda-sorta authority. Actual “this site knows what it’s talking about” trust.
Topical authority is earned when your site covers a subject in depth, from all angles, and with the kind of clarity and completeness that makes Google and readers say: yep, they get it.
Here’s the blueprint to build it. Write these 20 types of posts. Fill each one with clarity, usefulness, and actual insight—not fluff. This isn’t content for content’s sake. This is how you build something that matters
20 SEO Pages to Create for Topical Authority
1. Mistakes
What it is: A list of common screw-ups people make in your niche.
Why it helps: This shows you know the space well enough to steer people clear of failure. It also attracts search queries tied to frustration or curiosity.
How to write it:
- Identify 5 to 10 critical errors.
- Explain why they happen, the consequences, and what to do instead.
- Link to deeper guides where possible.
Example idea: “10 Costly SEO Mistakes Small Businesses Make”
2. Step-by-Step Guide
What it is: A walkthrough of one task or process.
Why it helps: Shows competence. Builds trust. Ideal for beginner to mid-level readers.
How to write it:
- Focus on one outcome.
- Write in numbered steps with visuals if possible.
- Avoid skipping any critical steps.
Example idea: “How to Set Up Google Search Console (Step-by-Step)”
3. Case Study
What it is: A real-world example of success (or failure).
Why it helps: Proof. Social proof, authority, and storytelling in one.
How to write it:
- Describe the challenge, solution, and result.
- Use screenshots, charts, or quotes.
- Be honest (even partial wins matter).
Example idea: “How We Grew Organic Traffic 128% for a Local Law Firm”
4. Dos and Don’ts
What it is: A simplified, punchy way to share guidance.
Why it helps: High engagement. Easy to skim. Great for repurposing.
How to write it:
- Write in two columns: what to do, what to avoid.
- Keep each point short.
- Use examples if needed.
Example idea: “TikTok SEO: The 8 Dos and Don’ts You Need to Know”
5. Solutions
What it is: A fix for a common issue.
Why it helps: People search with problems in mind. If you solve one clearly, you win the click.
How to write it:
- State the problem.
- Offer a step-by-step fix.
- Link to tools, templates, or further reading.
Example idea: “How to Fix Pages That Aren’t Getting Indexed”
6. Beginner’s Guide
What it is: The most foundational, no-jargon explanation.
Why it helps: Brings in new audiences. Gets linked to as a go-to starter resource.
How to write it:
- Start with basic definitions.
- Answer obvious beginner questions.
- Break down complex topics.
Example idea: “Beginner’s Guide to On-Page SEO”
7. Myths
What it is: Debunking common beliefs.
Why it helps: Builds credibility. Triggers interest. Corrects misinformation.
How to write it:
- List 5 to 10 myths.
- Explain why each one is false.
- Back it with logic, data, or expert quotes.
Example idea: “7 SEO Myths That Are Holding You Back in 2025”
8. Industry Stats
What it is: A data-driven breakdown of current trends.
Why it helps: Earns links. Supports arguments. Builds trust.
How to write it:
- Gather data from trusted sources.
- Add commentary and takeaways.
- Include charts or infographics.
Example idea: “SEO Industry Statistics for 2025: What You Need to Know”
9. Trends
What it is: Insight into what’s changing and why it matters.
Why it helps: Positions you as forward-thinking. Attracts traffic from trend-based searches.
How to write it:
- Identify 3 to 5 current or upcoming shifts.
- Explain their impact.
- Offer advice on how to adapt.
Example idea: “5 SEO Trends That Will Define the Next 12 Months”
10. FAQ Format
What it is: Direct answers to common questions.
Why it helps: Captures search intent. Great for featured snippets.
How to write it:
- Start with real FAQs from customers or forums.
- Use clear H3 questions and short answers.
- Link deeper if needed.
Example idea: “Local SEO FAQs: 14 Questions You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask”
11. Ultimate List
What it is: A deep, comprehensive resource.
Why it helps: Bookmark-worthy. Gets shares. Long session times.
How to write it:
- Choose a specific, high-value topic.
- Include tools, tactics, examples.
- Format for easy scanning.
Example idea: “The Ultimate List of Free SEO Tools (Updated for 2025)”
12. Behind the Scenes
What it is: A look into your workflow, tools, or strategy.
Why it helps: Humanizes your brand. Builds trust.
How to write it:
- Pick one process (like creating content).
- Show the steps, decisions, and tools.
- Use photos or screenshots.
Example idea: “Behind the Scenes: How We Plan and Execute SEO Content at Torro”
13. Expert Opinion
What it is: A look into your workflow, tools, or strategy.
Why it helps: Humanizes your brand. Builds trust.
How to write it:
- Pick one process (like creating content).
- Show the steps, decisions, and tools.
- Use photos or screenshots.
Example idea: “Behind the Scenes: How We Plan and Execute SEO Content at Torro”
14. Before vs. After
What it is: A transformation-focused piece.
Why it helps: Makes abstract results tangible. Builds trust.
How to write it:
- Pick one success story.
- Show the baseline, the intervention, and the results.
- Include visuals if possible.
Example idea: “Before vs. After: Optimizing This Page Increased Leads by 92%”
15. Lessons Learned
What it is: A personal or team reflection post.
Why it helps: Builds authenticity. Shows experience. Engages deeply.
How to write it:
- Be real about what worked and didn’t.
- Share unexpected takeaways.
- Tie it back to a bigger point.
Example idea: “10 Things I Learned From Managing SEO for 20 Clients Last Year”
16. Personal Story
What it is: Your own journey or insight.
Why it helps: Human. Memorable. Builds connection.
How to write it:
- Pick a story with emotion or tension.
- Relate it to your niche.
- End with a clear takeaway.
Example idea: “How Getting Burned by an SEO Agency Changed How I Do Business”
17. Pros and Cons
What it is: A breakdown of both sides of an option.
Why it helps: Helps users decide. Gets shared in decision-making moments.
How to write it:
- Be balanced. Show the real tradeoffs.
- Offer a summary table.
- End with who it’s right (or wrong) for.
Example idea: “SEO vs. Google Ads: Pros, Cons, and What Works Best for You”
18. What People Get Wrong
What it is: A focused myth-busting piece.
Why it helps: Sparks curiosity. Corrects bad advice.
How to write it:
- Identify 3 to 5 misunderstandings.
- Explain the right approach.
- Use stats or visuals where you can.
Example idea: “What People Get Wrong About Topical Authority”
19. Quick Tips
What it is: Bite-sized, high-utility tips.
Why it helps: Easy to repurpose. Great for low-effort/high-reward posts.
How to write it:
- List 5 to 20 punchy one-liners.
- Focus on usability.
- Bonus: Make a downloadable checklist.
Example idea: “21 Quick SEO Wins You Can Do in Under 10 Minutes”
20. If I Had to Start From Scratch
What it is: A beginner-focused hypothetical.
Why it helps: Shows expertise. Builds trust. High relatability.
How to write it:
- Explain your ideal process.
- Highlight what you’d avoid.
- Give a timeline or roadmap.
Example idea: “If I Had to Build an SEO Agency From Scratch in 2025”
In my experience, if you can clearly explain your knowledge at a 6th to 8th grade level (both in writing and on video), Google and LLMs have no choice but to see you as an authority on the topic or service you’re covering.
Final Thought
This strategy works because it mirrors how real people learn. They make mistakes, ask questions, want proof, love lists, and crave quick wins.
If you create all 20 of these pages around one topic, you won’t just look like an expert. You’ll actually become one.
And of course if you need help with SEO services, please don't hesitate to reach out!
