The Questions on Quora That Deserve Scrutiny: A SEO Perspective

Introduction

As an SEO professional, I've often found myself scrolling through countless questions on Quora, only to find that many are redundant, self-important, or can easily be answered with a simple Google search. This article aims to explore some of the questions that should have been asked but have never been, while also providing insights on how to optimize such queries for better online engagement.

1. Identifying Redundant and Repetitive Questions

Of the thousands of questions on Quora, a considerable majority (around 87.5%) are either redundant or self-important. Many of these questions are disguised pre-conceived notions rather than genuine inquiries. For instance, the phrase 'What is your opinion on [somewhat commonplace topic]?' often masks a lack of actual knowledge or interest.

Keyword Identification

Identifying these types of questions can be crucial for SEO optimization. Keywords such as 'redundant questions,' 'self-important,' and 'pre-conceived notions' can help in targeting users who are looking for straightforward answers or meaningful discussions.

2. Quora's Policy on Questioning Redundancy

Quora's recognition of question redundancy is evident in their QPP (Questions and Pages Program) and QPG (Questions and Posts Guide) policies. When you start typing a question in the search bar, the platform immediately shows you any existing questions that match your query. This feature encourages users to search first before posting duplicate questions.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Visit the Quora search bar at the top of the page. Type in your question and observe the suggestions as you type. If a relevant question is displayed, consider revising or refining your question to ensure uniqueness and clarity.

3. Formatting and Structuring Questions for Engagement

Even when a question is necessary and well-formulated, its visibility can be enhanced by strategic use of keywords, proper formatting, and clear intentions. Here are some tips to improve the SEO of your questions:

Title Optimization: Use relevant keywords in the title, making it concise yet informative. Headings and Subheadings: Utilize H1, H2, and H3 tags to structure your question and provide important information. Internal Linking: Include links to related content or discussions within your question for better context and depth. Description: Provide a well-written, engaging description that clearly states the purpose and context of your question.

4. Thought-Provoking Questions on Quora

Amidst the sea of redundant questions, there are occasional ones that spark genuine discussion and thought-provoking debates. These questions often require more than a single-word answer, inviting detailed explanations, opinions, and evidence. Examples include:

What ethical considerations are there for using AI in decision-making? How can we improve global education and reduce literacy rates? What are the long-term effects of social media on mental health?

These questions not only engage the community but also attract a higher level of engagement from thoughtful respondents.

Keyword Optimization

Keywords such as 'ethical considerations,' 'AI in decision-making,' 'global education,' 'literacy rates,' and 'mental health' can be strategically placed to improve search visibility and attract a targeted audience.

Conclusion

Quora is a platform rich with opportunities for meaningful engagement and discussion. By identifying and reframing redundant questions, and by structuring questions for better SEO and engagement, users can ensure their contributions are both valuable and discoverable. The key lies in asking questions that truly matter and are well-optimized for the vast online community.