Marketing / Free editable template

Content pillar and topic cluster map template

A topic cluster map shows how one broad pillar page connects to the narrower articles that support it. This example builds an email marketing guide with four clusters (deliverability, list building, automation, and copy and design) and labels each article with its search phrase and whether it is live, drafting or planned.

No account needed · Opens as your own editable page

Preview the content pillar and topic cluster map

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Content pillar and topic cluster map example showing pillar page with four clusters, twelve articles with target search phrases, status colours and internal linking rules
Everything in this example is editable. Replace the labels, move the shapes and adapt the layout to your work.

How to use this template

  1. Choose a pillar you can cover well

    Replace email marketing with a topic your audience searches for and you can answer in depth. If the pillar is too broad, the clusters will compete with each other.

  2. Group articles by intent

    Put articles under a cluster when they answer related questions. Check that no two articles target the same phrase, because similar pages can split attention between them.

  3. Plan the links

    Follow the linking rules: every article links to the pillar and the pillar links back. Update the colours as articles go live so the map doubles as a progress view.

Questions about this template

What do the status colours on the articles mean?

They show where each article stands, from planned to published. Change an article's colour as it moves on, using the key on the board.

Do I need an account to use it?

No. Open the template and edit it in your browser. Your work saves on this device. An account is optional if you want to sync your workspace.

Can I export the finished diagram?

Yes. Use Export in the editor to save a PNG, SVG or PDF, or download an editable .epicdraw backup.