Search engine optimization in 2025 is about user experience, speed, and authority. Here’s your ultimate SEO checklist for WordPress, complete with free tools to help you stay ahead.

1. Technical SEO

• ✅ Use HTTPS
• ✅ Mobile-responsive design
• ✅ Fast loading speed (PageSpeed Insights)

2. On-Page SEO

• ✅ Unique title and meta descriptions (Yoast or RankMath)
• ✅ Headings (H1–H3) hierarchy
• ✅ Keyword in first 100 words

3. Content SEO

• ✅ High-quality, helpful content
• ✅ Internal linking
• ✅ Outbound links to authoritative sources

4. Free Tools to Use

• Google Search Console
• Ahrefs Webmaster Tools
• SEO Minion browser extension

5. Bonus: Schema & Rich Snippets

• Use Schema plugins or add JSON-LD manually

Conclusion: Follow this checklist and use the right tools to improve your visibility on search engines without spending a dime.