How do beginners learn SEO for free?

Start with fundamentals, then practice on a real site. Quick plan:

• Learn the basics (1–2 days): read Google Search Central “SEO starter guide,” Moz Beginner’s Guide, and Ahrefs’ blog posts on keywords and on-page SEO.
• Set up free tools: create Google Search Console and Google Analytics accounts, and install the free Yoast plugin if you use WordPress.
• Do keyword research: use Google’s “People also ask,” Google Autocomplete, and free Ubersuggest/Ahrefs Webmaster Tools to find 5–10 target keywords per page.
• Practice technical checks: run PageSpeed Insights, Lighthouse, and Screaming Frog (free 500-URL) audits; fix title tags, meta descriptions, and mobile issues.
• Publish and optimize content: write helpful content for chosen keywords, use internal linking, and optimize headings and images.
• Build links ethically: guest-post, engage in niche forums, and list your site in relevant directories.
• Measure & iterate weekly: track clicks/impressions in Search Console and behavior in Analytics; tweak content based on queries and CTR.

Pick a single project (blog, local business page, or portfolio) and use it to apply each step.

What platform will you practice SEO on (WordPress, Shopify, a static site, or something else)?