Surfer is the SEO optimization layer in the [1]. It sits between the initial Claude draft and the final review pass, handling keyword scoring, internal linking, and content health metrics.
Surfer is Step 2 of the four-step blog production process:
The Claude draft enters Surfer as raw content. The optimized, linked output exits as a .docx file for upload back into Claude.
Surfer highlights keywords throughout the document using a traffic-light system:
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Keyword used at the recommended frequency |
| Yellow | Keyword present but underused — add more instances |
| Red | Keyword overused — reduce occurrences |
Aim to move all primary and secondary keywords to green before exiting Surfer.
Use Surfer's internal link suggestions to add links throughout the post. Do not manually copy-paste the content out of Surfer to add links — the links must be added inside the editor so they are preserved when the document is exported.
Important: Copying plain text out of Surfer strips all hyperlinks. Always export as
.docxto preserve link formatting.
The Surfer health score is a composite SEO quality metric. Improve it by:
- Addressing keyword gaps (yellow/red terms)
- Adding recommended headings or sections
- Incorporating internal links
For clients who track SEO metrics (e.g., Brian at Citrus America), note the final health score and target keyword — these should appear at the top of the delivered Google Doc.
When optimization is complete, export the document as a .docx file. This format:
- Preserves all internal links and formatting
- Can be uploaded directly to the client's Claude Team Project for final review
- Can be opened in Google Docs or Word without reformatting
Do not export as PDF — PDFs cannot be edited by account managers during their review pass.
Surfer seats are limited (currently 5 users). Current seat holders include Gavin, Karly, Raphael, and Sebastian. Account managers who need to view scores but not edit content may be accommodated via a shared "Team" viewer account — see [2] (pending research by Mark).
If you need Surfer access and do not have a seat, contact Mark before attempting to share credentials.
.docx export; copy-paste loses links