12 Topic Cluster Examples And Pillar Page Templates For SEO

You’ve heard that topic clusters and pillar pages boost topical authority, but turning that idea into a working structure is hard. What goes on the hub vs. the pillar? Which subtopics deserve their own pages? How do you interlink without making a mess—and how do you do this consistently enough to move rankings and revenue, not just publish another “guide”?

This article gives you the playbook and the proof. You’ll see 12 real topic cluster examples across B2B, ecommerce, media, and SaaS—each broken down into: what the cluster looks like, a plug‑and‑play pillar page template, a shortlist of cluster topics to cover, and an internal linking checklist. We start with an on‑autopilot approach using RankYak, then examine high‑performing clusters from brands like HubSpot, Podia, Conductor, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Wolters Kluwer, Wirecutter, Signaturely, Zapier, AppSumo, Burpee, and Healthline. Use these as ready‑made blueprints to ship your next cluster faster, align with search intent and E‑E‑A‑T, and earn compounding visibility in both Google and AI search. Let’s get into the examples and templates you can copy today.

1. RankYak: Build topic clusters and pillar pages on autopilot

If you want topic cluster examples you can actually ship without adding headcount, RankYak is the fastest path. It discovers high‑value keywords, drafts optimized hub and spoke content in your brand voice, auto‑publishes to your CMS, and weaves in internal links so clusters strengthen each other and meet Google’s helpful content and E‑E‑A‑T signals.

What this cluster looks like

Think “hub and spokes” on cruise control. RankYak proposes a hub (pillar) for a core topic, then schedules daily spoke articles targeting long‑tail intent. Each piece is optimized for search intent, interlinked to the hub and sibling spokes, and published to WordPress, Shopify, Webflow, or your custom CMS. Its backlink exchange can further lift the hub once your cluster is live.

Pillar page template

Your hub should be a comprehensive, skimmable resource that routes readers to deeper spokes when they’re ready.

• H1 + promise: Define the topic and outcome in one line.
• Executive summary: Who this helps, quick wins, and links to key sections.
• What/why section: Definitions, benefits, use cases, common pitfalls.
• Core subtopics overview: 6–10 brief sections, each linking to a spoke.
• Frameworks/templates: Checklists, calculators, or downloadable assets.
• How‑to workflow: High‑level steps with CTAs to detailed guides.
• Tooling stack: When to use which tool (link to your product if relevant).
• Examples/case studies: Proof that the approach works.
• FAQs: Answer intent‑driven questions you pulled from keyword research.
• Next steps CTA: Invite readers to continue or try RankYak.

Cluster topics to include

RankYak’s keyword discovery surfaces subtopics by intent so you cover breadth and depth without guessing. A reliable starter set for most hubs:

• Foundations: What is [topic], benefits, terminology/glossary.
• How‑tos: Step‑by‑step guides, setup, audits, and maintenance.
• Strategy: Frameworks, roadmaps, KPIs, and benchmarks.
• Templates: Checklists, briefs, SOPs, and swipe files.
• Tools/stack: Comparisons, alternatives, and integrations.
• Problems: Mistakes, troubleshooting, and quick wins.
• Use cases: Industry‑specific variations and vertical playbooks.
• Proof: Case studies, examples, and before/after breakdowns.
• Questions: People‑also‑ask style FAQs to capture zero‑click intent.

Internal linking checklist

Your cluster’s authority depends on smart cross‑linking. RankYak auto‑suggests and places links; use this checklist to keep signals tight.

• Hub ↔ spokes: Every spoke links to the hub; the hub links to all spokes.
• Sibling links: Cross‑link related spokes to satisfy adjacent intents.
• Descriptive anchors: Use specific, intent‑matching anchor text.
• Navigation aids: Add breadcrumbs and a related‑reading module.
• Update cadence: Re‑crawl old posts to add links to new spokes.
• Depth rules: Keep spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; avoid orphan pages.
• Schema support: Add FAQ/HowTo schema where it fits the content.
• GSC feedback loop: Use Search Console data to refine anchor text and add links where users bounce.

2. HubSpot: Instagram marketing hub and spokes

HubSpot’s Instagram marketing cluster is one of the cleanest topic cluster examples you’ll find. The hub, “The Ultimate Guide to Instagram Marketing,” anchors the space and points to 10+ spoke articles covering specific intents like how to use Instagram Stories, yearly Instagram stats, and how to get more followers. Each spoke drills deep on one job-to-be-done and links back to the hub and to adjacent spokes (e.g., Stories → Reels → Live), creating a self-reinforcing web of relevance.

What this cluster looks like

A navigational, evergreen hub introduces the channel, then routes readers to specialized playbooks. Spokes target long‑tail keywords and intents (tactics, tools, updates, benchmarks), and they cross‑link to satisfy neighboring questions without forcing users back to search. Annual assets (like “Instagram stats”) refresh the year in the title and update internal links to keep freshness signals strong.

Pillar page template

Use this plug‑and‑play layout to build your own Instagram hub that mirrors the winning structure while fitting your brand.

• H1 + value promise: “Instagram Marketing: Strategy, Templates, and Playbooks”
• TOC + quick wins: 5–7 jump links for fast navigation
• Channel 101: What it is, who it’s for, when it works (and doesn’t)
• Algorithm basics: Reach, signals, and content types at a glance
• Setup checklist: Account settings, bio, branding, highlights
• Content pillars: Reels, Stories, Feed, Live (each links to a spoke)
• Growth system: Hashtags, engagement loops, collaborations
• Analytics: KPIs, benchmarks, reporting cadence
• Tools stack: Scheduling, design, UGC rights management
• Examples + mini case studies: What “good” looks like
• FAQs: Intent-driven questions to capture PAA
• Next steps: Templates, calendar, and starter CTAs

Cluster topics to include

• How to use Instagram Stories (for marketers)
• Instagram Reels strategy and editing workflow
• Instagram bio optimization (with examples)
• Hashtag research and categorization
• Content calendar template for Instagram
• Instagram algorithm updates (rolling changelog)
• Instagram Ads formats and targeting basics
• Influencer and UGC collaboration guide
• B2B Instagram examples by industry
• Giveaways and contest rules checklist
• Annual Instagram statistics (update yearly)
• Troubleshooting: drops in reach and engagement

Internal linking checklist

Tighten signals so authority flows where it matters and users never hit dead ends.

• Hub ↔ all spokes: Two-way links with descriptive anchors
• Sibling cross‑links: Stories ↔ Reels ↔ Live ↔ Feed best practices
• Freshness loop: Update year‑based spokes and adjust anchors site‑wide
• Navigation modules: “Related playbooks” blocks on every spoke
• Depth: Keep all spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; no orphans
• Anchors by intent: Match “how to,” “examples,” “template,” and “stats”
• FAQ schema: Add to hub and eligible how‑to spokes where appropriate

3. Podia: Online course creation hub

Podia offers one of the clearest topic cluster examples for creators. Their comprehensive hub, “How to create, sell, and profit from an online course” (title updated each year), connects to eight focused supporting pages. The result: a navigational pillar that routes readers to deep, intent‑specific guides while consolidating topical authority.

What this cluster looks like

A classic hub‑and‑spoke: an evergreen pillar that introduces the journey from idea to profit, then hands off to spokes for the specifics. Each spoke links back to the hub and across to adjacent steps to reduce pogo‑sticking and keep readers progressing.

• Yearly‑fresh hub: Title and data updated annually.
• ~8 spokes: Each tackles one high‑intent subtopic in depth.
• Cross‑links: Hub ↔ spokes and spoke ↔ spoke to satisfy adjacent intent.

Pillar page template

Design your course‑creation hub to be skimmable, comprehensive, and conversion‑minded.

• H1 + outcome: Promise from “idea” to “first sales.”
• Quick start: TOC + links to most‑used sections.
• Roadmap: Stages from validation → build → launch → scale.
• Mini overviews: 6–8 subtopics with “Read the full guide” links.
• Frameworks: Pricing models, outline templates, launch checklist.
• Proof: Short case studies and common pitfalls.
• FAQ: Intent‑driven questions from keyword research.

Cluster topics to include

Cover the full lifecycle so no question is left to Google.

• Course idea validation
• Outline and curriculum template
• Recording gear and setup basics
• Pricing models and discounts
• Pre‑sell and waitlist strategy
• Launch email sequence (templates)
• Sales page copy and design
• Student onboarding and engagement

Internal linking checklist

Tight links turn related pages into a true cluster.

• Hub ↔ all spokes: Two‑way links with descriptive anchors.
• Stage bridges: Validation → Outline → Build → Launch → Scale.
• Template CTAs: Link from hub and spokes to assets consistently.
• Refresh loop: Update anchors when you revise year‑based content.
• No orphans: Every spoke ≤2 clicks from the hub.

4. Conductor: Content marketing hub (hybrid hub/pillar)

Conductor’s Academy shows a hybrid approach that blends a navigational hub with pillar‑level depth. Their Content Marketing hub groups related guides (e.g., content audits, briefs), while select resources—like the Index Coverage Guide—act as in‑depth pillars first, then transition into a directory that links out to spoke pages via an FAQ section. It’s a smart way to rank a comprehensive page while distributing authority to subtopics.

What this cluster looks like

Expect a hub that orients readers to the content marketing discipline and a network of spokes covering specific tasks, frameworks, and tactics. Hybrid pillars open with deep, self‑contained guidance, then shift into a structured FAQ that links to standalone pages answering each question. This balances user intent: learn here, explore further via internal links.

Pillar page template

Model your hybrid hub/pillar to educate first, route second.

• H1 + positioning: “Content Marketing: Strategy, Workflows, and Templates”
• Executive overview + TOC: Quick wins and fast navigation
• Core framework: Goals → research → planning → production → distribution → measurement
• Mini deep dives: Short sections that tee up full spoke guides
• Templates/tools: Briefs, calendars, audit sheets
• Examples/case notes: What teams actually ship
• FAQ directory: Each Q links to a spoke for intent satisfaction
• Next steps CTA: Encourage readers to continue into the cluster

Cluster topics to include

Cover the questions practitioners actually search for to create a durable topic cluster.

• Content strategy vs. plan (with framework)
• How to run a content audit
• Keyword research for content teams
• Content briefs: components and template
• Hub‑and‑spoke and pillar page models
• On‑page SEO checklist
• Editorial calendar and workflow
• Measurement: KPIs, dashboards, and reporting
• Content refresh playbook
• Link building for content marketers
• Content governance and approvals

Internal linking checklist

Keep signals tight so the hybrid pillar lifts every spoke—and vice versa.

• Pillar → spokes: Link from each section and the FAQ directory
• Spokes → pillar: Return links using intent‑rich anchors (e.g., “content audit guide”)
• Sibling cross‑links: Connect adjacent tasks (briefs ↔ calendar ↔ production)
• Module‑based related links: “You might also like” block on every page
• Depth and crawlability: All spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; no orphan pages
• Freshness loop: Update anchors when frameworks change; re‑link new spokes
• Schema where fitting: FAQ/HowTo schema on eligible sections to expand SERP real estate

5. Dick's Sporting Goods: Pro Tips sports hubs

Dick’s Sporting Goods runs Pro Tips as sport‑specific hubs that branch into hundreds of how‑to articles, drills, sizing guides, and gear explainers. It’s a textbook hub‑and‑spoke system at scale: each sport (e.g., baseball, golf, running) gets a navigational hub that routes to deep spokes covering every task and question. According to public write‑ups, this breadth helped the brand climb SERPs and generate reliable organic growth—one of the strongest topic cluster examples in retail.

What this cluster looks like

Each sport hub serves as the front door for that discipline, mixing fundamentals, technique, and gear education. Spokes target precise intents like “how to grip a bat,” “golf wedge gapping,” or “running shoe fit,” and cross‑link to adjacent needs so readers can progress from skills to equipment and back again. Seasonal refreshes (preseason checklists, holiday gift guides) keep freshness signals strong.

Pillar page template

Make your sport hub skimmable for beginners and useful for returning athletes.

• H1 + value promise: “Baseball Pro Tips: Skills, Gear, and Game‑Day Prep”
• TOC + start here: Quick links for beginners, intermediates, coaches
• Rules and fundamentals: Positions, basics, safety
• Skills library overview: Hitting, fielding, pitching (link to spokes)
• Gear 101: Bats, gloves, cleats, protective gear (link to buyers’ guides)
• Fit and sizing: Measurement charts and try‑on tips
• Training plans: Off‑season, pre‑season, in‑season
• Checklists and templates: Practice plans, equipment checklists
• FAQs: Common questions curated from search data

Cluster topics to include

Cover the full journey: learn the skill, choose the gear, maintain performance.

• Skill drills: Hitting mechanics, pitching accuracy, fielding footwork
• Gear guides: Bat materials, glove break‑in, cleat selection by surface
• Fit and sizing: Bat length chart, glove sizing by position, youth vs. adult
• Maintenance: Glove care, bat storage, cleat cleaning
• Position playbooks: Catcher setup, middle infield drills, outfield reads
• Coaching: Practice plan templates, tryout checklists, team roles
• Safety: Protective gear basics, concussion awareness, hydration plan
• Seasonal content: Preseason conditioning, mid‑season tune‑ups, gift guides

Internal linking checklist

Tight internal links ensure authority flows from hub to every spoke—and back.

• Hub ↔ spokes: Two‑way links with descriptive, intent‑rich anchors
• Skill ↔ gear bridges: From a drill to the relevant gear guide (and vice versa)
• Level pathways: Beginner → intermediate → advanced within each skill
• Seasonal loops: Update annual pieces and refresh site‑wide anchors
• Related modules: “Next up” block for adjacent skills/equipment
• Depth control: Keep all spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; no orphans
• FAQ schema where eligible: Expand SERP real estate on quick‑answer pages

6. Wolters Kluwer: Tax season resource center

Tax content isn’t evergreen—deadlines, thresholds, and guidance change every year. Wolters Kluwer solves this with a Tax Season Resource Center that consolidates timely, intent‑specific content into one navigational hub. According to public case studies, revamping their SEO helped boost organic results appearing in the top 10 by 400%, making this one of the standout topic cluster examples for seasonal search.

What this cluster looks like

Expect a living, seasonal hub that orients filers and professionals, then routes them to precise spokes on deadlines, deductions, forms, and updates. The hub stays evergreen in structure but refreshes annually with updated dates, figures, and cross‑links so returning visitors and Google both see fresh, reliable guidance.

Pillar page template

Anchor your resource center with a skimmable hub that balances timeliness and depth.

• H1 + year: “Tax Season [Year]: Deadlines, Forms, and Filing Guide”
• TOC + start here: Quick routes for individuals, self‑employed, SMBs, and pros
• Key dates overview: Federal/state deadlines and extension rules
• What’s new this year: Law changes and thresholds at a glance
• Filing checklist: Docs to gather and prep steps
• Deductions/credits overview: Link to detailed spokes by category
• After you file: Refunds, amendments, notices, audits
• FAQs: PAA‑style answers for quick wins

Cluster topics to include

Cover the full journey from prep to post‑filing so no search escapes the cluster.

• Federal and state deadlines (with extensions)
• Required documents and organizer checklist
• Deductions and credits by profile (home, education, childcare)
• Self‑employed and small business filing basics
• Estimated taxes and quarterly payments
• Common forms and where they fit (W‑2/1099/K‑1 concepts)
• Refund timing, tracking, and delays
• Amendments, penalties, and reasonable cause
• Audit readiness and responding to notices
• What changed this year (thresholds, caps, rules)

Internal linking checklist

Keep authority flowing while reducing pogo‑sticking during the busiest season.

• Hub ↔ all spokes: Two‑way links with descriptive, year‑specific anchors
• Lifecycle paths: Prep → File → Post‑file journeys with clear next steps
• Profile routing: Individuals ↔ self‑employed ↔ SMB spokes interlinked
• Update cadence: Refresh dates/figures and adjust anchors site‑wide yearly
• Sibling links: Deductions ↔ forms ↔ notices for adjacent intents
• Depth control: All spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; no orphans
• FAQ/HowTo schema: Add where eligible to expand SERP real estate

7. Wirecutter: Camera reviews content library

Wirecutter is a strong example of a content library cluster done right. Instead of a single pillar + a handful of spokes, it builds a navigable library where the category page (electronics → cameras) functions as the hub and routes readers into tightly scoped review pages, comparisons, and how‑to guides. Owned by The New York Times, Wirecutter’s depth across subcategories (cameras, lenses, accessories, and care) creates durable topical authority—exactly the kind of topic cluster examples that win for commerce content.

What this cluster looks like

Think “category hub” that presents the landscape, then fans out to expert reviews and evergreen explainers. The camera hub introduces key segments (mirrorless, point‑and‑shoot, action cams, webcams, lenses, tripods, bags), surfaces top picks, and links to supporting guides on features and technique. Each spoke page drills into one intent—best pick reviews, “who it’s for,” alternatives, testing notes—and cross‑links to related accessories and care guides to keep readers moving.

Pillar page template

For a content library, your “pillar” is a highly curated category hub that balances discovery and decision support.

• H1 + positioning: “Cameras: Tested Picks, Comparisons, and Buying Guides”
• Editor’s picks: Top 3‑5 recommendations by common use case
• Shop by need: Beginners, travel, vlogging, sports, low light
• Category tiles: Mirrorless, compact, action, webcams, instant
• Essential guides: Sensor sizes, lenses, stabilization, video specs
• Accessories: Lenses, memory cards, mics, tripods, bags, cleaning kits
• How we test: Methodology and update cadence
• FAQs: Short answers to high‑intent questions

Cluster topics to include

Cover devices, decisions, and maintenance so no camera‑related search leaks out of the cluster.

• Best mirrorless/compact/action cameras (by budget/use case)
• Camera comparisons (model A vs. model B)
• Lens buying basics and focal length guide
• Memory cards: formats, speeds, and reliability
• Microphones for on‑camera video and vlogging
• Tripods and stabilization (gimbals vs. IBIS)
• Camera bags: sizes, protection, and access styles
• Beginner setup: menu basics, profiles, and backups
• Care and cleaning: sensors, lenses, weather sealing
• Webcams and streaming setups for meetings or live video

Internal linking checklist

Create persistent pathways so shoppers can research, decide, and accessorize without bouncing.

• Hub ↔ spokes: Category hub links to every review/guide; each spoke links back to the hub
• Accessory bridges: Device reviews link to matching lenses, mics, cards, and bags
• Alternatives network: “If not this, try…” links between comparable models
• Use‑case paths: Vlogging pages ↔ mics ↔ tripods ↔ lighting
• Methodology links: From reviews to “how we test” for trust signals
• Seasonal refresh: Revisit anchors and “top picks” during major release cycles
• Schema fit: Use appropriate Product, Review, and HowTo schema where eligible

8. Signaturely: Verticalized contract templates hub

Signaturely is a clean example of verticalized content done right. Instead of one generic “contracts” page, they cluster pre‑made, customizable contract templates by industry and use case—think real estate, finance, healthcare, and wedding planning. It’s one of the most practical topic cluster examples for turning broad legal intent into fast, high‑intent discovery.

What this cluster looks like

Picture a master “Contracts” hub that routes visitors into industry hubs (e.g., Real Estate, Healthcare) and then into specific contract template pages. Each template page focuses on one job—what the contract is for, when to use it, key sections to customize, and how to get it signed—then links back to its hub and across to closely related templates.

Pillar page template

Model your verticalized contracts hub to help users pick the right template in two clicks.

• H1 + value promise: “Free Contract Templates by Industry (Customize & Sign)”
• Industry picker: Real estate, finance, healthcare, creative, events, more
• Top contract types: NDA, service agreements, SOW, retainers, invoices, addenda
• When to use which: Short scenarios with “view template” CTAs
• How to customize: Clauses to edit (scope, payment, termination, IP)
• How to sign: Simple e‑signature workflow walkthrough
• Disclaimers: Not legal advice; consult counsel for local requirements
• FAQs: Common questions surfaced from search intent

Cluster topics to include

Cover the contracts people actually search for, grouped by vertical and intent.

• Non‑disclosure agreement (mutual vs. one‑way)
• Freelance/consulting service agreement
• Statement of Work + master service agreement
• Retainer agreement (monthly services)
• Change‑order/addendum template
• Independent contractor agreement (by industry)
• Real estate listing/buyer agency agreement
• Event/wedding planner contract
• Healthcare business associate agreement (BAA)
• Financial advisory/CPA engagement letter
• Photography/videography release and license
• Termination/cancellation letter template

Internal linking checklist

Make discovery effortless and keep authority concentrated in the hub.

• Hub ↔ industry hubs ↔ templates: Two‑way links with intent‑rich anchors
• Sibling links: Connect close variants (e.g., NDA ↔ MNDA ↔ employee NDA)
• Journey bridges: From a template to “how to customize” and “how to sign”
• Use‑case loops: Scenario pages link to the exact template and vice versa
• Depth control: Keep all templates ≤2 clicks from the hub; avoid orphans
• Update cadence: Refresh anchors and examples when laws or best practices change
• Schema where eligible: FAQ/HowTo on guidance pages to expand SERP footprint

9. Zapier: Remote work directory cluster

Zapier’s Remote Work hub is a textbook content directory cluster: a navigational page that consolidates every remote‑work article and routes readers straight to the resource they need. It even groups a “Tools for Remote Teams” area that points to guides on platforms like Zoom, Slack, and Trello—one of the clearest topic cluster examples of turning a broad theme into tidy, high‑intent entry points.

What this cluster looks like

Instead of one giant pillar, Zapier uses a directory‑style hub with curated link groups. The hub organizes subtopics, then fans out to in‑depth spoke pages (tool tutorials, how‑tos, workflows). Each spoke links back to the directory and across to closely related tools or practices so readers can move from, say, a Zoom guide to adjacent meeting or collaboration advice without bouncing.

Pillar page template

Use a directory‑first hub that’s scannable, evergreen, and ruthlessly helpful.

• H1 + positioning: “Remote Work: Guides, Tools, and Templates”
• Who it’s for: Individuals, managers, and ops/IT
• Start here: Remote work 101, expectations, etiquette
• Tools for remote teams: Link to tool guides (e.g., Zoom, Slack, Trello)
• Meetings & collaboration: Async vs. sync, agendas, notes
• Productivity & focus: Time blocking, distractions, deep work
• Hiring & onboarding: Playbooks for remote roles
• Security & compliance: Access, MFA, device policies
• Templates: Meeting agendas, onboarding checklists, policy docs
• FAQs: Quick answers to high‑intent questions

Cluster topics to include

Model your spokes on practical jobs‑to‑be‑done so every search has a home.

• Remote work 101 and etiquette
• Zoom setup and meeting best practices
• Slack channels, norms, and notification hygiene
• Trello (or kanban) workflows for teams
• Async communication playbook (with examples)
• Meeting agendas, notes, and decision logs (templates)
• Time‑zone scheduling and handoff SOPs
• Home office setup and ergonomics
• Focus systems: time blocking, pomodoro, and RTO hybrids
• Remote hiring and interview processes
• Onboarding checklist for week 1 to week 4
• Security basics: MFA, VPN, device and data policies
• Performance reviews and feedback rhythms
• Burnout prevention and wellbeing resources

Internal linking checklist

Make the directory the source of truth and keep readers flowing across intents.

• Hub ↔ spokes: Two‑way links with descriptive, intent‑matching anchors
• Sibling links: Bridge tool pages (e.g., Slack ↔ Zoom) and adjacent practices
• Journey paths: “Read next” modules (Setup → Collaborate → Optimize)
• Template bridges: From how‑tos to downloadable checklists and back
• Breadcrumbs + tags: Improve navigation and crawl paths
• Update cadence: Refresh anchors when tools/features change
• Depth control: Keep all spokes ≤2 clicks from the hub; no orphan pages
• FAQ/HowTo schema where eligible: Expand SERP coverage for quick answers

10. AppSumo: Software deals database cluster

AppSumo is a textbook database-style cluster: an online marketplace that organizes software and learning deals into category hubs (e.g., marketing, design, productivity) and thousands of product pages enriched with metadata like name, description, pricing, and user reviews. Powerful filters and search help users narrow by need, while internal links keep discovery flowing across related tools—making it one of the clearest topic cluster examples for marketplaces.

What this cluster looks like

Instead of a single pillar, a “browse” or category hub acts as the navigational core. From there, users drill into subcategories, apply filters, and land on product detail pages (PDPs). Each PDP links back to its category, surfaces related products, and nudges into adjacent categories so shoppers can compare options without bouncing.

Pillar page template

Model your marketplace hub like a curated, filterable catalog that also explains how to choose.

• H1 + positioning: “Discover Software Deals for Every Use Case”
• Filters: Category, price, ratings, integrations, platform
• Featured collections: Editor’s picks, trending, new arrivals
• Shop by job-to-be-done: Lead gen, design, video, support, finance
• How to choose: Evaluation checklist (features, support, integrations)
• How we vet deals: Criteria and update cadence
• FAQs: Pricing, refunds, access, and support basics

Cluster topics to include

Cover the full discovery path—from broad categories to deep product details and practical comparisons.

• Category hubs: Marketing, design, productivity, development, finance, customer support, courses
• Subcategory pages: Email, SEO, video, analytics, project management
• Product detail pages: Features, pricing, reviews, pros/cons, use cases
• Integration guides: Tools that work together (tagged and cross‑linked)
• Use‑case collections: “Best tools for agencies,” “For solopreneurs,” “For startups”
• Buying guides: How to evaluate [category] software (checklists/templates)

Internal linking checklist

Use links to reduce decision friction and concentrate authority on your category hubs.

• Hub ↔ categories ↔ PDPs: Two‑way links with descriptive anchors
• Related products: “People also viewed” and “Similar tools” on every PDP
• Integration bridges: Link tools that connect (e.g., CRM ↔ email)
• Use‑case paths: From buying guides/collections to exact PDPs (and back)
• Facet persistence: Maintain filter context when moving between products
• Depth control: Keep all PDPs ≤3 clicks from the main hub; no orphans
• Review and update loop: Refresh anchors and featured modules as inventory changes

11. Burpee: Gardening 101 database and guides

Burpee pairs an educational “Gardening 101” hub with a deep product database of seeds and plants. Each variety page functions like a mini‑pillar—name, description, growing instructions, and customer reviews—while robust filters (plant type, growing season, disease resistance, and more) help users find the right cultivar fast. The win comes from tight bridges between how‑to guides and the catalog, turning learning intent into confident selection and successful growing.

What this cluster looks like

Think hybrid database + education. A navigational hub organizes foundational guides (planning, planting, care, harvest) and routes to category hubs (vegetables, herbs, flowers). Those hubs fan into variety pages enriched with metadata and step‑by‑step growing instructions. Guides link to relevant varieties; variety pages link back to “how to grow” resources and adjacent categories to keep gardeners moving without bouncing.

Pillar page template

Model your Gardening 101 hub to educate quickly and route readers to the exact plant or guide they need.

• H1 + value promise: “Gardening 101: Plan, Plant, and Harvest With Confidence”
• Start here: Beginner path vs. refreshers for returning growers
• Plan your garden: Bed layout, sun, soil basics, and timing
• Plant types overview: Vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials (link to category hubs)
• Seed starting & transplanting: Supplies, timing, hardening off
• Care cycle: Watering, feeding, mulching, staking/trellising
• Pests & diseases: Identification and safe control options
• Harvest & storage: Readiness signs, techniques, and storing
• Tools & calendars: Checklists and seasonal planners
• FAQs: Short answers to high‑intent beginner questions

Cluster topics to include

Cover the full grower journey so every gardening search lands inside the cluster.

• Planting calendars by region/season
• Seed starting indoors (supplies and timelines)
• Transplanting and hardening off
• Soil testing and amendments
• Watering schedules and mulch basics
• Fertilizer types and application
• Companion planting fundamentals
• Pest and disease ID (top culprits by crop)
• Organic/least‑toxic control methods
• Crop rotation for small beds
• Raised bed and container gardening
• Pollinator‑friendly garden basics
• Pruning and trellising techniques
• Harvest windows and storage tips
• Saving seeds from open‑pollinated crops

Internal linking checklist

Use internal links to connect education, selection, and success—and concentrate authority on your hubs.

• Hub ↔ category hubs ↔ variety pages: Two‑way links with descriptive anchors
• Guide‑to‑product bridges: From “how to grow tomatoes” to specific tomato varieties
• Sibling links: Planting → pests → pruning → harvest within each crop
• Seasonal loops: Refresh anchors and “start here” paths as seasons turn
• Filter persistence: Maintain applied filters when hopping between varieties
• Depth control: Keep all variety pages ≤3 clicks from the hub; no orphans
• Schema where eligible: HowTo/FAQ on guidance pages to expand SERP footprint
• Review modules: Link from reviews back to care guides for trust and retention
• Breadcrumbs and tags: Improve navigation and crawler clarity across the library

12. Healthline: Allergy topic cluster (what‑is + how‑to pillars)

Cited in industry write‑ups as a standout, Healthline’s allergy cluster pairs “what is” explainers with “how to manage” guides to cover definitions, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It’s a clean medical model: high‑trust pillars, then intent‑specific spokes that help readers act safely.

What this cluster looks like

A central allergies hub (and condition pages) introduces the terrain—seasonal, environmental, and food allergies—then routes into focused how‑tos (avoid triggers, meds, relief). Each “what‑is” pillar answers core clinical questions; each “how‑to” pillar gives practical steps, precautions, and when to see a doctor, with annual updates where seasonality applies.

Pillar page template

Use this two‑pillar pattern to capture discovery and action in one cluster.

• H1 + scope: Define the allergy and who it affects
• Fast facts/overview: Key takeaways at a glance
• Symptoms: Common vs. urgent (red‑flag) signs
• Causes/triggers: Environment, foods, cross‑reactivity
• Diagnosis: Tests and what to expect
• Treatment options: Meds, immunotherapy, lifestyle
• Prevention/avoidance: Practical routines and environments
• Home care & relief: Safe at‑home steps and cautions
• When to seek care: Thresholds and emergencies
• FAQs: Clear, search‑aligned answers

Cluster topics to include

Map spokes to real intents so every allergy search lands inside your cluster.

• Seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) basics
• Dust, pet dander, and mold allergy management
• Food allergies (e.g., peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, wheat, soy, shellfish)
• Antihistamines vs. nasal sprays: when and how
• Immunotherapy (shots/drops): expectations and timelines
• Allergies in kids vs. adults: key differences
• Home setup: cleaning routines, filters, and bedding
• Travel and school plans for people with allergies

Internal linking checklist

Link for safety, clarity, and strong topical signals across the cluster.

• Hub ↔ all pillars/spokes: Two‑way links with intent‑rich anchors
• What‑is ↔ how‑to: Pair every definition with its management guide
• Symptom pages ↔ conditions: Route from signs to likely causes
• Medication guides ↔ conditions: Explain use cases and cautions
• Prevention ↔ environment: Home, work, and travel pages cross‑linked
• Seasonal refresh: Update anchors and year‑based content on cadence

Next steps

You now have 12 proven blueprints—hub‑and‑spoke, hybrid hubs, libraries, verticalized hubs, directories, and databases—plus ready templates and link checklists. Pick one topic tied to revenue, ship the hub this week, then publish 6–10 intent‑specific spokes over the next two weeks. Keep links tight, refresh annually where needed, and let Search Console guide anchor text, FAQs, and new spokes. Consistency is what turns clusters into compound traffic.

If you want to move faster without adding headcount, put cluster building on autopilot with RankYak. It finds high‑value keywords, drafts hub and spoke content in your brand voice, auto‑publishes to your CMS, and weaves internal links—plus a built‑in backlink exchange to lift your hubs. Start the 3‑day free trial, ship your first cluster, and watch rankings stack.