The Internet provides a great wealth of information on a wide range of topics, including SEO. Some of it is great compelling content, while others are flat-out misinformation or fear-mongering. But, most of it is re-spun information, which you can get from one or two good sources of information. The resources below will provide you with all the basics you need to gain a firm understanding of SEO.

SEO guides and resources:

• Beginner’s Guide to Link Building by MOZ
• Beginner’s Guide to SEO by MOZ
• Complete Beginner’s Guide to Search Engine Optimization by WordStream
• Definitive Guide to Link Building by Brian Dean
• Google algorithm change history – MOZ keeps track of most of the Google update changes here
• Introduction to SEO – a simple overview of SEO by me
• QuickSprout – an advanced guide to SEO, by Neil Patel
• Search Engine Land – the latest SEO news
• Search Engine Watch – the latest search engine news
• Web Pro News – news about everything Internet
• Website Magazine – news and tips about Internet business
• The Short Cutts – short answers to all of Matt Cutt’s videos (it saves a lot of time but keep in mind that SEO is filled with many gray areas)
• UpCity SEO Software List – comprehensive list of over 215 apps, platforms, and tools dedicated to SEO
• Google’s 200 SEO Ranking Factors – another great guide from Brian Dean
• SEO Tools: The Complete List – a comprehensive list of SEO tools compiled and tested by Brian Dean

SEO tools and software:

• Google Analytics
• Link Assistant
• Rank Signals
• Screaming Frog
• SEOBook
• SEM Rush
• Traffic Travis
• WebCEO