What is the simplest SEO tool to start with?

Google Search Console is the simplest tool to start with. It is free, requires only verifying site ownership, and immediately shows which pages are indexed, which keywords bring clicks, and which pages have errors.

For keyword ideas beyond what Search Console shows, Google's own autocomplete and the People Also Ask boxes on the results page are free and require no setup at all.

Paid tools like Ahrefs add depth, competitor gaps and search volume, but are not necessary to start. Most beginners get more value from spending a month actually using free tools than shopping for the perfect paid one.

Once the basics are running, an SEO automation software can take over the recurring research and writing work.