# Content Writing Quick Reference

**Last Updated:** 2026-02-11  
**Purpose:** One-page quick reference for content writing best practices

## Core Principles

- **Human-First:** Write for humans first, optimize for search engines second
- **Natural Language:** Use conversational tone, vary sentence structures
- **SEO-Optimized:** Integrate keywords naturally, not forcefully
- **E-E-A-T:** Demonstrate Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness

## AI Content Avoidance

**Avoid:**

- Overly formal language
- Repetitive sentence structures
- Generic transitions ("Furthermore", "Moreover")
- Lack of specific examples
- Perfect grammar without variations

**Use:**

- Varied sentence lengths
- Personal insights
- Specific examples and anecdotes
- Natural transitions
- Conversational tone

## Answer-First and AI Citation

- **Answer-first:** 40-60 word direct answer below question headings; first sentence = answer
- **Chunk size:** 40-120 words for AI extraction; 250-350 per section
- **H3:** Optional, case-by-case. H2+paragraphs valid. When H3s used: optional intro between H2 and first H3. See [blog/CONTENT_WRITING_GUIDELINES.md](blog/CONTENT_WRITING_GUIDELINES.md)

## Content Structure

**Header Hierarchy:**

- H1: Page/post title only (in header)
- H2: Main sections (5-10 for most; 8-12 for main topics)
- H3: Subsections under H2 (optional, case-by-case)
- Sequential hierarchy (no skipping)

**Paragraphs:**

- 2-3 sentences max
- One main idea per paragraph
- Use white space effectively

**Lists:**

- Bulleted: Related items without order
- Numbered: Step-by-step instructions

## Universal Copy Guidelines

**Du Tone:**

- Use informal "du" pronouns
- Conversational and friendly
- Active voice, present tense

**Ordio Mentions:**

- Once per major section
- Naturally integrated
- Not forced

**Copy Quality:**

- Short paragraphs (2-3 sentences)
- Benefits-focused (not features)
- Concise and direct

## Keyword Integration

- Primary keyword in title, H1, first paragraph
- Use keywords naturally (not forced)
- Include synonyms and related terms
- Focus on user intent
- 1-2% keyword density (natural)

## Meta Tags

**Title Tags:**

- 50-60 characters
- Primary keyword near beginning
- End with " - Ordio"
- Unique for every page

**Meta Descriptions:**

- 150-160 characters
- Benefit-driven
- Includes primary keyword
- Includes CTA when appropriate

## Word Count Targets

- **Informational Content:** 1,200+ words
- **News/Announcements:** 300-800 words
- **Product Pages:** 500-1,000 words
- **Tools Pages:** 800-1,500 words
- **Template Pages:** 500-1,000 words

## Content Quality Checklist

- [ ] Natural, conversational language
- [ ] Varied sentence structures
- [ ] Specific examples present
- [ ] Proper header hierarchy
- [ ] Short paragraphs
- [ ] Keywords integrated naturally
- [ ] Meta tags optimized
- [ ] Schema markup present
- [ ] Internal links (10+)
- [ ] FAQ section (if applicable)

## Related Documentation

- `docs/content/CONTENT_WRITING_BEST_PRACTICES_2026.md` - Comprehensive guide
- `docs/content/blog/CONTENT_WRITING_GUIDELINES.md` - Blog-specific patterns
- `docs/content/AI_CONTENT_AVOIDANCE_GUIDE.md` - AI avoidance guide
- `.cursor/rules/content-writing.mdc` - Cursor rules