How-to articles are the bread and butter of successful blogs. They rank well on Google, attract steady traffic, and earn great AdSense revenue. Here's exactly how to write them!
What You'll Learn:
- Why how-to articles are perfect for AdSense sites
- The proven structure for high-ranking how-to posts
- How to choose the right topics
- Tips for writing clear, helpful steps
- Examples of great how-to articles
Why How-To Articles Are Perfect for AdSense
How-to articles solve specific problems. People search for them every day. When someone types "how to..." into Google, they need help right now.
This makes how-to content great for AdSense for three reasons:
- High search volume – Millions of "how to" searches happen daily
- Long time on page – Readers follow steps carefully
- Featured snippet potential – Google loves showing step-by-step answers
According to Ahrefs research, how-to queries trigger featured snippets about 50% of the time. That means your article could show at the very top of Google!
How to Choose the Right How-To Topics
Not all how-to topics are equal. Pick topics that people actually search for. Here's how to find winners:
Start With Your Audience's Problems
What questions do your readers ask? What problems do they face? Every problem is a potential how-to article.
Use Keyword Research Tools
Type "how to" plus your niche into Google. Look at the suggestions that pop up. These are real searches people make. Learn more in our keyword research guide.
Check Search Volume
Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest. Aim for topics with at least 500 monthly searches.
For more on this topic, see our guide on How to Find Trending Topics & Create Viral Blog Content →
Look at Competition
Search your topic on Google. If page one is full of huge websites, pick an easier topic. Look for keywords where smaller blogs rank.
"The best how-to content solves a specific problem completely. Don't try to cover everything. Focus on one task and do it well."
— Google Search Quality Guidelines
The Perfect How-To Article Structure
Great how-to articles follow a simple pattern. Use this template every time:
1. Write a Clear Title
Start with "How to" and describe the outcome. Be specific. "How to Set Up Google AdSense in 10 Minutes" beats "AdSense Setup Guide."
2. Hook Your Reader
Your first paragraph should explain what they'll achieve. Tell them why this matters. Make them want to keep reading.
Learn more in Content Repurposing Strategy: Get 10x More Traffic From Every Post →
3. List What They Need
Before the steps, list any tools, accounts, or things they'll need. This saves time and frustration.
4. Write Numbered Steps
Each step should be one clear action. Start with a verb. Keep each step short and focused.
5. Add Helpful Details
Under each step, add tips, warnings, or screenshots. Help readers avoid common mistakes.
6. Include a Summary
End with a quick recap and next steps. Link to related guides for readers who want to learn more.
Tips for Writing Clear Steps
The steps are the heart of your how-to article. Make them crystal clear:
Related reading: How to Write Listicles That Boost Traffic and AdSense Revenue →
Start Each Step With an Action Verb
Use words like "Click," "Open," "Type," "Select," or "Create." This tells readers exactly what to do.
Keep Steps Short
Each step should describe one action. If a step feels too long, split it into two steps.
Add Warnings Where Needed
If a step has a common pitfall, warn readers before they make the mistake. Use bold text or a warning box.
Include Expected Results
After each step, tell readers what they should see. "You should now see a green checkmark." This builds confidence.
| Bad Step | Good Step |
|---|---|
| "Do the settings thing for your account" | "Click Settings in the top-right menu" |
| "Set up your page with the right stuff" | "Add your website URL in the Site field" |
| "Make sure everything works properly" | "Click Preview to check your changes" |
SEO Tips for How-To Articles
Great content needs good SEO to get found. Here's how to make your how-to articles rank:
For more on this topic, see our guide on How to Write Compelling Headlines: 10 Proven Formulas That Get Clicks →
Use Schema Markup
Add HowTo schema to help Google understand your steps. This can get you a rich result in search.
Target Long-Tail Keywords
Go for specific phrases like "how to set up AdSense on WordPress." These are easier to rank for. Read our long-tail keywords guide for more tips.
Write for Featured Snippets
Use numbered lists for your steps. Keep your intro answer short and direct. Google often pulls this into a featured snippet.
Add Internal Links
Link to your other articles where they make sense. This helps SEO and keeps readers on your site. Our blog structure guide has more on this.
"Content that demonstrates first-hand experience and expertise tends to perform better in search results."
Learn more in Content Calendar for AdSense Publishers: Plan Your Blog for Maximum Revenue →
— Google Search Quality Guidelines
Common How-To Writing Mistakes
Avoid these errors that hurt your rankings and reader experience:
- Skipping steps – Don't assume readers know anything
- Being too vague – "Configure the settings" is not helpful
- No visuals – Screenshots and diagrams make steps clearer
- Too many steps – Keep it under 15 steps if possible
- No intro – Explain why this task matters before diving in
- Missing conclusion – Summarize and suggest next actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a how-to article be?
Aim for 1,500 to 3,000 words. Long enough to be thorough, short enough to stay focused. Simple tutorials can be shorter.
Should I use screenshots in how-to articles?
Yes! Visuals make steps much easier to follow. Use screenshots, diagrams, or SVG graphics whenever they help explain a step.
How many steps should a how-to article have?
It depends on the task. Most how-to articles work best with 5 to 12 steps. If you need more, consider breaking the topic into separate articles.
Can how-to articles earn good AdSense revenue?
Absolutely! How-to articles keep readers on the page longer. More time means more ad impressions. They also attract highly targeted traffic.
Should I update my how-to articles?
Yes, keep them current. Check every 3-6 months for outdated steps. Update screenshots and links regularly. Fresh content ranks better.
Conclusion
How-to articles are one of the best content types for AdSense blogs. They attract search traffic, keep readers engaged, and earn solid revenue.
Start with the template above. Pick a topic your audience needs help with. Write clear, numbered steps. Add visuals and tips.
Your first how-to article might take a while. But once you have the format down, you'll write them faster each time. Now it's your turn to create something helpful!
