If you’ve ever wondered how to get your articles in SERP features, you’re already thinking like a results-driven content marketer. Ranking on page one of Google is great, but earning a featured spot is even better.
SERP features such as featured snippets, People Also Ask boxes, and knowledge panels dominate visibility, driving more clicks and building brand authority faster than standard listings.
According to a featured snippets study by Engine Scout, featured snippets capture about 35.1% of all clicks on a results page. Meaning, if your article earns that “position zero” spot, you’re winning traffic even above the top organic result.
Below, we’ll break down how to get your content into those coveted SERP features and what really makes Google choose your page.
1) Understand What SERP Features Are
SERP features are special elements that appear on Google results pages beyond the standard blue links. These include:
- Featured snippets (quick answers at the top of results)
- People Also Ask (PAA) boxes
- Knowledge panels
- Top stories
- Image or video carousels
While some features pull data from structured sources like Wikipedia, many are driven by well-optimized articles. That means your blog can earn these placements with the right structure, clarity, and formatting.
If your content answers questions directly, uses schema markup, and aligns with search intent, Google is far more likely to feature it.
2) Optimize Your Content for Featured Snippets
Featured snippets are Google’s way of giving users instant answers. These snippets often appear as paragraphs, numbered lists, or tables, all pulled directly from top-ranking pages.
To optimize for them:
- Answer key questions early. Write a short, direct answer (40–60 words) right under your subheading.
- Use list or step formatting. This works well for “how-to” or “best ways to…” topics.
- Be clear and concise. Google’s algorithm prefers straightforward, structured responses.
- Add schema markup (FAQ or HowTo) to reinforce context.
A study by Authority Hacker found that over 40% of all top spots are occupied by some type of snippet, proving that snippet optimization builds upon strong SEO fundamentals.
3) Target the Right Search Intent and Queries
You can’t get featured if you’re targeting the wrong type of keyword.
SERP features often show up for informational and question-based queries, such as:
- “What is local SEO?”
- “How to improve website ranking”
- “Why is schema markup important?”
Use tools like Ahrefs, Google Search Console, or AlsoAsked to discover real questions people are asking. Focus on long-tail, intent-driven queries. They’re less competitive and more aligned with snippet opportunities.
A local SEO agency like Sierra Exclusive plans content strategies for clients by mapping these questions to each stage of the customer journey. This ensures that every article isn’t just optimized; it’s answering intent.
4) Use Schema Markup and Structured Data
Google’s crawlers don’t “see” your content the way humans do; they rely on structure. That’s where schema markup comes in.
A schema is a type of code (JSON-LD) that helps Google understand what your page is about. Adding markup like FAQPage, HowTo, or Article makes your page eligible for rich results such as FAQs or instructional snippets.
According to Google’s official documentation, structured data helps Google interpret and display enhanced results, which can significantly improve your content’s click-through rate.
That’s a significant edge and it’s one that doesn’t require paid ads, just proper formatting.
Before publishing, always validate your schema using the Rich Results Test or Schema.org validator to ensure it’s implemented correctly.
5) Strengthen On-Page and Technical Signals
Even perfectly optimized content can miss out on SERP features if your page’s foundation is weak.
Make sure to:
- Use strong headings (H2, H3) that match user intent.
- Add descriptive alt text to images.
- Keep load times fast (Core Web Vitals matter).
- Ensure mobile responsiveness.
- Update your content regularly. Google prefers fresh, accurate information for snippets and PAA sections.
When you combine technical health with content clarity, your chances of getting featured rise exponentially.
6) Track, Measure, and Refine
SEO isn’t “set it and forget it.”
Use Google Search Console to monitor which keywords are triggering impressions in snippets or PAA boxes. If your article is close but not featured, experiment with:
- Rephrasing subheadings into questions.
- Tightening answer length.
- Adding structured data for clarity.
Continuous optimization helps you identify what Google considers snippet-worthy and replicate that success across multiple posts.
Earn Your Way to “Position Zero”
Getting your article featured in Google’s SERP features isn’t about gaming the system, it’s about earning trust and clarity.
When your content directly answers questions, uses clean structure, and demonstrates expertise, Google rewards it with enhanced visibility.
Start with one article. Refine it using these best practices. Over time, you’ll find your brand showing up not just on page one, but above it.
And if you’re ready to scale this strategy, Sierra Exclusive business consulting agency in Sacramento helps brands create SEO-driven, data-backed content that captures SERP features and builds authority.
Give us a call now to book your free, no-obligation strategy session with our SEO consultants and strategists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do SERP features mean?
SERP features are enhanced search results on Google, such as featured snippets, People Also Ask boxes, and knowledge panels. They provide quick answers or visuals to improve user experience beyond traditional blue links. Earning these spots can significantly boost your visibility and click-through rates.
How to see 100 results in Google SERP?
You can’t set 100 results anymore. Google removed the &num=100 parameter and the “Results per page” option in Sept 2025. The practical workaround is to scroll/click “More results,” or use SEO tools/APIs when you need bulk SERP views.
What’s the difference between SEO & SERP?
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of improving a website to rank higher in search results. SERP (Search Engine Results Page) is the actual page Google shows when someone searches. Essentially, SEO is the effort and SERP is the outcome.
How to improve SERP results?
You can improve SERP results by optimizing your content with relevant keywords, adding schema markup, and building high-quality backlinks. Regularly update your content to maintain freshness and authority. Strong on-page SEO and site performance also help boost rankings.
How do I increase my Google search results?
Focus on publishing helpful, keyword-rich content that matches user intent. Optimize titles, meta descriptions, and headers for clarity. Combining technical SEO with consistent content updates will steadily improve your search visibility.
