ChatGPT for SERP and Content Helpfulness Analysis

ChatGPT can be a solid SEO analysis tool if you know how to use it.

Now that ChatGPT can browse and search Google, I thought I’d play with it for a bit to see how useful these new capabilities are for SEO tasks (like checking rankings).

I asked ChatGPT to pull top positions for [diy SEO] and create a table. Here’s what it returned:

This is not what I am seeing when searching in Chrome’s Incognito mode. In fact, the results are completely different.

Nonetheless, I asked ChatGPR why Moz is ranking so well. Its response was:

• Relevance and quality of content: Moz is known for producing high-quality, informative content that is directly relevant to the search query "diy seo." Their guides and articles are typically comprehensive, well-researched, and provide valuable information, which aligns well with what users are searching for.

• Keyword optimization: The content likely uses keywords effectively, balancing the use of relevant terms like "DIY," "SEO," and related phrases. This helps search engines understand that the content closely matches the search query.

• Backlinks: Moz likely has numerous high-quality backlinks pointing to their content. Backlinks from other authoritative websites improve a page's visibility and credibility in the eyes of search engines.

• Regular updates: Moz is known for keeping their content updated. Regular updates ensure that the information stays relevant and accurate, which is valued by search engines.

• Brand authority: Moz is a well-known and respected brand in the SEO community. This reputation, built over years, likely contributes to users preferring their content, which in turn signals to search engines that their site is a valuable resource for queries related to SEO.

Pretty generic but something I cannot argue with.

I copy-pasted an article from Capterra (which I see ranking #1) and asked ChatGPT to analyze it and tell me if it finds this content helpful. This is where I actually liked the response:

Based on the content you provided from Capterra's guide on "How to Do SEO Yourself," several aspects stand out as particularly helpful:

• Step-by-step approach: The guide breaks down the SEO process into clear, manageable steps. This makes it easier for beginners to understand and implement SEO strategies without feeling overwhelmed.

• Emphasis on keyword research: The detailed explanation of keyword research, including the use of tools and the importance of aligning keywords with page content, provides valuable insights for effectively targeting the right audience.

• On-page and off-page SEO: The distinction between on-page and off-page SEO, with specific instructions for each, helps readers understand the full scope of SEO efforts needed for a comprehensive strategy.

• Practical tips for metadata and content: The guide gives practical advice on crafting meta titles, descriptions, and optimizing URLs, image file names, and alt texts, which are crucial for improving a website's search engine visibility.

• Internal linking strategy: The mention of internal linking not only from an SEO perspective but also for enhancing the user journey is a crucial aspect that often gets overlooked in basic SEO guides.

• Off-Page SEO techniques: The guide's focus on building off-page SEO through backlinks, brand mentions, and content sharing is essential for improving site authority and search rankings.

• Performance monitoring: Highlighting the importance of monitoring and maintaining SEO performance with the right tools is key for understanding what works and making necessary adjustments.

• Staying updated with SEO trends: The emphasis on keeping abreast of SEO trends and updates acknowledges the dynamic nature of SEO and the need for continuous learning.

• Resources for further learning: The guide provides references to other SEO resources and websites, offering readers additional avenues for expanding their knowledge and staying updated.

I personally dislike the term “off-page SEO” but other than that, there are a few things the tool picked up that Google may have found as well.

I noticed that ChatGPT found the article useful for “beginner SEOs”, so I asked it to analyze the query and tell me who would search for “DIY SEO” in its opinion. I didn’t hate its response:

The term "DIY SEO" (Do-It-Yourself SEO) likely attracts a predominantly beginner audience in the field of SEO. This assumption is based on several factors:

• Terminology: "DIY" implies a self-starting, hands-on approach, which is often more appealing to individuals who are just beginning to explore a subject. Experienced SEO professionals are less likely to search for "DIY" resources, as they would probably look for more advanced or specific content.

• Learning curve: SEO has a significant learning curve. Beginners looking to understand and implement SEO strategies are more likely to seek out comprehensive, step-by-step guides like the one provided in the Capterra article.

• Cost-effectiveness: Small business owners, bloggers, and startups, often with limited budgets, may be more inclined to search for "DIY SEO" to save costs on hiring professional SEO services.

• Growing interest in SEO: With the increasing importance of online presence for businesses and individuals, more people are becoming interested in learning SEO. This includes those with no prior experience who want to enhance their website's visibility and traffic.

• Search intent: The content of such articles is typically designed to cater to beginners, covering basic concepts and providing a general overview. This aligns well with the search intent of individuals who are new to SEO.

So a few takeaways from this:

• ChatGPT is not a reliable source for checking Google rankings

• It is a good idea to use it for text analysis (to better understand what your target audience is looking for)

• It is great for query analysis helping you or your team to better align your content to the searchers’ needs and expectations.

Sounds like a solid “Helpful content” optimization tool. What do you think?

Keep in mind that ChatGPT may respond differently to different prompts. So keep insisting even if it is not cooperating:

Have a great week!