Where to Start — Your First Blog Post

This is a template post that shows you how the blog system works. To create a new article, follow these steps:

Step 1: Duplicate this file

Copy blog/where-to-start.html and rename it. Use a descriptive, keyword-rich slug:

• Good: nmp-replacement-guide-pc.html
• Good: battery-grade-vs-industrial-dmc.html
• Bad: post-3.html

Step 2: Fill in the three header fields

Near the top of the file, find the section marked EDIT THESE THREE FIELDS:

• Title tag — include your main keyword + "| CARMELSOLV™". Keep it under 65 characters.
• Meta description — 1–2 sentences summarizing the article. Keep it under 160 characters. Include your keyword naturally.
• Canonical URL — the full URL of the post on your live site.

Step 3: Write your article

Replace everything below the "DELETE EVERYTHING BELOW THIS LINE" comment with your content.

Use H2s for major sections and H3s for sub-sections. Keep paragraphs short (2–4 sentences). Use the <blockquote> element for key takeaways.

Pro tip: Copy your LinkedIn post text and paste it here. Add H2 headings to break up long text, and link to your product pages wherever you mention a product.

Step 4: Link from the blog listing page

Open blog/index.html. Find the <div class="blog-list"> and add a new <article class="blog-card"> block above the existing posts (newest first):

<article class="blog-card">
      <div class="blog-date">Month DD, 2026</div>
      <h2><a href="your-post-slug.html">Your Post Title</a></h2>
      <p>Short excerpt — one or two sentences that make people want to click.</p>
      <a href="your-post-slug.html" class="blog-read">Read article →</a>
    </article>

Step 5: Deploy

Run ./deploy.sh from the repo root. Both the new post and the updated listing page will upload.

What makes a good blog post for SEO?

Every post should target a specific search query — ideally one of these types:

• Application guide: "How to replace NMP with propylene carbonate"
• Comparison: "DMC vs DEC for battery electrolyte — which to use"
• Regulatory explainer: "What EPA VOC-exempt status means for your coating formulation"
• Grade deep-dive: "Battery grade vs industrial grade — when purity specifications matter"
• Industry insight: "Why U.S. battery manufacturers need domestic solvent suppliers"

Link to your product pages naturally within the article. Add a call-to-action at the bottom of every post.