Ever get stuck writing because you don’t know where to stop? You’re not alone. When creating content, it’s easy to keep going and going. But there’s a smart way to handle this. It’s called knowing your content’s edge. This is the sweet spot where you stop and link out to something useful. Let’s dive into it!
What Are Content “Edges”?
Think of your content as a territory. You don’t need to rule the whole internet. Just own your part of it. Your job is to cover a topic clearly and completely—up to a point.
That point is your edge.
When a reader reaches that edge, they naturally want to know more. That’s the perfect time to link out to a trusted source.
This makes your content feel complete without being overwhelming. And it actually boosts your credibility.
Why Stop at the Edge?
Trying to write everything risks losing your reader. No one wants to read a 5,000-word post when a 1,200-word one does the job.
Linking out helps in many ways:
- It respects your reader’s time
- It adds depth without clutter
- It shows you know your stuff
- It builds trust by linking to high-quality sources
Plus, Google likes it when you connect to helpful, relevant content. It can give your SEO a little lift.
How to Know You’re at the Edge
There are signs when you’ve hit your content edge. Let’s spot them:
- You’re going off-topic. If you find yourself explaining something that’s a whole other topic, you’ve likely hit the edge.
- The post gets too long. If your article feels like it’s spiraling into a textbook, it’s time to stop.
- You need expert knowledge. Some things require deeper explanation than you can or should provide. Outsource that to the experts with a link.
It’s okay—even great—not to stuff everything into one article. That’s what links are for!
What Kinds of Links Add Value?
Not all links are created equal. Aim for links that:
- Explain related terms or ideas
- Offer real-world examples
- Provide additional tools or resources
- Are from credible, well-known sources
Here’s an example. Say you’re writing a post on how to start a podcast. Instead of diving deep into the science of microphone technology, link out to a detailed gear guide.
The goal is to stay focused on your topic while guiding readers to other solid content.
The Power of “Just Enough”
People love content that’s clear and simple. Don’t feel the need to cover everything.
Teach what you know well. Then link out where your expertise ends or where another source tells the story better.
There’s power in saying: “Here’s what I know, and here’s where you can go next.”
How to Make Your Links Shine
Done right, your links can be more than just blue text. They can be guideposts.
Here are some quick tips:
- Use descriptive anchor text: Instead of “click here,” write “read this beginner’s guide to podcast gear.”
- Open in a new tab: Let readers explore without losing your page.
- Keep links current: Review and update outdated resources.
And always, always link to trustworthy sources. That means no spammy sites or link farms.
When Too Many Links Spoil the Content
Links are great—until they take over.
If your post looks like a hyperlink parade, slow down. Too many links distract and break the flow.
A good rule of thumb? Try to keep it to about 1 link per 150–200 words. Quality over quantity.
Also consider where the reader is in their journey. If they’re just starting, one link might be perfect. If they’re already deep in the topic, they may need more advanced resources.
When You Might NOT Want to Link
Yes, we love links. But there are times to hold back:
- When the resource is low-quality or off-brand: Skip it.
- When linking to competitors: Be smart. If it strengthens your post to link to a “rival,” do it—if not, look for alternatives.
- When you have internal resources: Link to yourself when it makes sense!
Internal links are powerful too. They keep readers exploring your content and boost your SEO strength.
Examples of Content Edges in Action
Let’s say you’re writing about how to make cold brew coffee. You explain the process, the ratio, the timing. But then your reader might ask, “What’s the best coffee grinder for this?”
You’ve hit the edge.
Link them to a trustworthy gear review instead of diving into another 1,000 words.
Another example: writing about freelancing tips? When you get to taxes or legal stuff, link out to a reliable site that covers those complex topics better.
Using Edges for Better User Experience
Your content edge helps shape the user journey. You’re guiding them to the next best thing.
Think of it like a museum tour. You don’t describe every detail about each artifact. You give highlights, and then let the tour guide or info card fill in the gaps. That’s what good links do.
Edges Help With Content Planning Too
Learning to define your content edge doesn’t just help readers—it helps you.
It keeps your writing focused. It also helps you plan future content ideas:
- Hit an edge? That topic could be your next blog post!
- Noticed lots of outbound links to one subject? You have reader interest and demand
Over time, your content becomes a well-linked network of helpful resources. That’s gold for SEO and your audience.
Final Takeaway
Think of content “edges” as natural stopping points. Don’t try to write everything in one post. Go deep, but know when to say:
“I’ve covered what matters here, now go check this out.”
By linking to the right places, you keep your content strong, smart, and incredibly useful.
So the next time you’re writing, ask yourself:
Have I hit an edge yet? Should I link out here?
Chances are, if you’re asking, the answer is yes.
