Should I Create a “Start Here” or “Tools I Use” Page on My Blog?

 When building a successful blog, two of the most overlooked yet powerful pages are the “Start Here” page and the “Tools I Use” page. While most bloggers concentrate on publishing posts and growing traffic, strategic foundational pages like these can play a key role in audience engagement, authority building, and monetization.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The purpose and benefit of each page

• What to include

• How they enhance SEO and trust

• Monetization opportunities

• Best practices when building them

Whether you’re a new blogger or looking to improve your existing site, this guide will show you why adding these two pages is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

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What Is a “Start Here” Page?

A “Start Here” page is a dedicated introduction to your blog — a place where new visitors are directed to understand:

• What your blog is about

• Who you are

• What value they’ll get from your content

• Where they should begin

Think of it as your digital handshake. It offers structure to new visitors who might otherwise get lost in a sea of blog posts or outdated archive pages.

Why It Matters:

• Improves engagement: It gives a clear path to explore your blog.

• Reduces bounce rate: Visitors are more likely to stay if they understand what your site offers.

• Introduces your brand voice: Helps readers connect with you as a person, not just as a content creator.

• Builds trust: A well-written “Start Here” page feels intentional and professional.

• Funnel control: Direct users to your most valuable content, products, or email list.

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What to Include on a “Start Here” Page

Here’s a suggested structure for your “Start Here” page:

1. A Warm Introduction

Introduce yourself briefly. Tell visitors why your blog exists and how it can help them. Keep the tone friendly but focused on the reader’s benefit.

Example:
“Hi, I’m Claire — a full-time blogger who helps new entrepreneurs build profitable online businesses from scratch. If you’re tired of confusion and information overload, you’re in the right place.”

2. What Your Blog Is About

Give a brief overview of your niche and the topics you cover. Be clear and concise. People should immediately understand what to expect.

3. Who Your Blog Is For

Clarify your target audience. This filters your audience and builds a stronger connection with the right readers.

Example:
“This blog is perfect for stay-at-home parents, side hustlers, and small business owners who want to grow income online.”

4. Best Posts to Read First

Recommend a few cornerstone or evergreen posts that give the best value or serve as entry points into your content.

Example Section:

• Start with this → How to Start a Blog in 2025

• Then read → My Top 10 Tools for New Bloggers

• Don’t miss → How I Grew My Site from 0 to 100K Views in 6 Months

5. Your Free Resources or Lead Magnet

If you have a free eBook, course, checklist, or newsletter, this is the place to plug it. Encourage visitors to sign up.

6. Clear Navigation or CTA (Call to Action)

Guide them to their next step:

• Subscribe to your email list

• Explore your content categories

• Visit your “Tools I Use” or “About” page

• Join your Facebook group or YouTube channel

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What Is a “Tools I Use” Page?

A “Tools I Use” page (also known as “Resources,” “Recommended Tools,” or “My Toolbox”) is a curated list of the software, apps, services, and products that you use and trust in your niche.

It’s both a helpful resource for your audience and a powerful source of affiliate income.

Why It Matters:

• Builds credibility: People often ask, “What tools do you use?”

• Simplifies choices: Saves your audience time and effort in figuring out what works.

• Opens affiliate opportunities: Monetize through trusted products you already recommend.

• Enhances your authority: Shows you’re experienced and resourced.

• Evergreen value: Once created, it can serve you for years with minimal updates.

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What to Include on a “Tools I Use” Page

Here’s how to structure it effectively:

1. Group Tools by Category

Break your tools into logical sections so it’s easier for readers to browse. Examples:

• Blogging Platforms

• Hosting & Domains

• Email Marketing Tools

• SEO Tools

• Graphic Design Tools

• Affiliate Marketing Networks

• Productivity Apps

• Hardware & Equipment

2. Include a Short Description

For each tool, add a personal recommendation and a clear explanation of what the tool does and why you like it.

Example:
ConvertKit – This is the email marketing platform I use to manage my list. It’s beginner-friendly, powerful, and designed for creators. I love its visual automation builder and responsive support.

3. Use Affiliate Links Where Appropriate

Wherever possible, use your affiliate links. Be transparent and disclose this clearly. This builds trust and keeps you compliant with FTC guidelines.

Example Disclosure:
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I genuinely use and love.

4. Include Visuals or Badges (optional)

Logos or screenshots can make the page more attractive, but they’re not required. What matters most is clarity and value.

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Benefits of Having These Pages

1. Better User Experience

These pages help organize your blog. Instead of overwhelming new visitors with dozens of posts, you give them a curated, useful introduction.

2. Improved Engagement and Retention

When people understand what your blog is about and what tools they can use, they’re more likely to stay longer, click more links, and return in the future.

3. Increased Conversions

Both pages are excellent places to promote:

• Lead magnets

• Paid products or services

• Affiliate products

• Membership communities

4. SEO and Traffic Opportunities

With proper internal linking and keyword optimization, these pages can rank well and draw search traffic over time.

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Best Practices When Creating These Pages

• Keep them updated – Set a reminder every 3–6 months to revise the content.

• Write in your voice – These are personal pages; sound human and authentic.

• Don’t overstuff with products – Keep your recommendations focused and relevant.

• Make them visible – Add these pages to your main menu, sidebar, or even footer.

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Do You Need Both Pages?

Yes — if your goal is to:

• Build community and loyalty

• Improve monetization opportunities

• Structure your content strategically

• Convert readers into followers or customers

Each page serves a different stage of the visitor journey:

• “Start Here” is for orientation and connection

• “Tools I Use” is for practical solutions and affiliate monetization

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Final Thoughts

Creating a “Start Here” and “Tools I Use” page is not just for large blogs or influencers. These are powerful assets even for small or beginner blogs — and they scale with your growth.

They help your audience navigate, help you earn, and most importantly, help you build a trustworthy and useful online presence.

If you haven’t created these pages yet, start with a simple version and build from there. Done right, they will serve you and your audience for years to come.