Why digital writers still need SEO in the age of AI

Michelle Pugle
Jun 21
3 min read

If you’re a digital writer in 2025, chances are you’ve either played around with AI tools or felt the pressure to. You may be wondering, “Do I still need to learn SEO if AI can do it for me?”

The short answer is: yes, absolutely. Knowing SEO—search engine optimization—is still essential for writing content that connects, converts, and is found in the first place.

Here’s why, along with some beginner-friendly tips to get started with SEO both with and without AI.

What is SEO?

SEO is the practice of improving your content so search engines like Google can understand, rank, and recommend it to users searching for related topics. It includes things like using relevant keywords, writing clear titles, linking to trustworthy sources, and organizing your content with proper headings so it’s easy to read.

Think of SEO as the map that helps readers find your writing. Without it, even the most heartfelt, well-researched blog post can get lost in the noise of the internet.

You create the stories. SEO puts them on the map.

Why SEO still matters (even with AI)

AI can suggest keywords, generate outlines, and even write drafts—but it doesn’t know your audience, your brand voice, or your goals. That’s your job.

When you understand the basics of SEO:

You make smarter decisions about what to write and how to write it.
You build authority by answering real reader questions (ie., search queries).
You edit AI-generated content with intention, improving quality and relevance.

In short, SEO helps your content rise above the algorithm-generated flood of sameness. It keeps your work discoverable and your voice authentic.

Beginner SEO tips (no AI needed)

Start with a search: Before writing, Google your topic. Notice what questions come up in the “People also ask” section. Read the top-ranking articles. What are they doing the same?
Use clear keywords: Think about what someone would type into Google to find your article. Better yet, utilize a keyword finder tool like Google's Keyword Planner. Use top keywords and phrase in your title, first paragraph, and headings.
Write for readers: SEO isn’t just about pleasing the algorithm powers that be. It’s about writing content that actually helps people. Structure your piece with short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings to make it scannable and accessible.
Link smartly: Add internal links to your own relevant content and external links to credible, authority sources. It’s a simple way to boost trust and improve your SEO.

How AI can help (if you guide it)

When used thoughtfully, AI tools can absolutely support your SEO strategy—but they’re not a replacement for it. Think of AI as a writing assistant, not the writer. You’re still in charge of clarity, connection, and credibility.

Here are some ways to use AI effectively while keeping your content intentional and authentic:

Build SEO-friendly outlines: AI can help structure your content by generating outlines that follow SEO best practices—such as placing key information early, using logical subheadings, and keeping paragraphs digestible. From there, you add your unique voice, examples, and trusted sources.
Generate meta descriptions and alt text: Let AI provide a first draft of your meta descriptions and image alt text (two key SEO components), but always review and revise for clarity, tone, and accuracy. Remember: these small pieces of content are powerful—they help search engines and readers understand what your post is about.
Avoid over-optimization: AI sometimes overuses keywords or writes in a robotic tone. It’s up to you to humanize your content—remove awkward phrasing, balance keyword usage, and ensure the flow feels natural to a reader.
Use prompts with purpose: The more specific your prompt, the better the AI output. Ask for SEO best practices for your niche or request content in your writing style. Then edit with intention.

At its best, AI can help you work faster and smarter—but only if you bring your own SEO knowledge, personal experience, and critical eye to the process. You still have the final say, and that’s what makes the difference between generic content and content that actually resonates—and ranks.

Final thoughts

SEO is a skill every digital writer benefits from—AI or no AI. It empowers you to write with purpose, reach your audience, and future-proof your content. Whether you're freelancing, blogging, or growing a business or brand, learning SEO is one of the smartest things you can do.