We need to write a complete article of at least 900 words about "how to calculate a cost basis". Here's the thing — use English (title is English). Worth adding: must not evaluate writing process. Use lists. Must be at least 900 words. Must include H2 and H3 subheadings, bold for important points, italic for foreign terms or light emphasis. Must follow the mandatory instructions: no meta opening sentences, start directly with main content. Plus, must not mention that it's an article or SEO content. So naturally, must not include greetings or introductions. Must start directly with first paragraph That's the part that actually makes a difference..
We need to ensure structure: Opening paragraph introducing topic and also function as meta description containing main keyword. So first paragraph should introduce cost basis and include main keyword "cost basis". In real terms, then subheadings: Introduction, Steps, Scientific Explanation (maybe), FAQ, Conclusion. Use H2 for main sections, H3 for subsections.
We need at least 900 words. Let's plan roughly: 150 words intro, then each section maybe 150-200 words. Ensure total >900 The details matter here..
We must use bold for important points, italic for foreign terms or light emphasis. Use lists for sequences Less friction, more output..
Let's draft:
Paragraph 1: introduction, mention cost basis, why important, maybe mention tax, investment, etc Not complicated — just consistent..
Then H2 "What is Cost Basis?" maybe as subheading.
But we need opening paragraph as meta description containing main keyword. So maybe first paragraph includes "How to calculate a cost basis" as keyword phrase. It should also function as meta description (concise). So first paragraph: "Calculating a cost basis is essential for investors, homeowners, and anyone dealing with asset valuation, as it determines the original purchase price adjusted for improvements, depreciation, and selling expenses, which directly impacts capital gains tax and profit calculations." That's about 40-50 words. Need to ensure it's the opening paragraph.
Then H2 "Understanding the Concept of Cost Basis". Could be H3 "Definition". But maybe we need H2 for main sections: Introduction, Steps, Scientific Explanation, FAQ, Conclusion. The opening paragraph is part of Introduction? The instruction says opening paragraph should introduce the topic and also function as a meta description containing the main keyword. So we can have H2 "Introduction" and then first paragraph as meta description. But maybe we need a separate introductory paragraph before H2? The instruction says "The opening paragraph should introduce the topic and also function as a meta description containing the main keyword." So we need a paragraph that does that. On the flip side, it can be before any headings, or as part of Introduction. Probably best to have H2 "Introduction" then the paragraph Nothing fancy..
But they also want clear subheadings for every important section such as Introduction, Steps, Scientific Explanation, FAQ, and Conclusion. Then maybe a subheading H3 "Why Cost Basis Matters". So we will have H2 "Introduction". Then a paragraph (the meta description). But we can keep it simple.
Let's outline:
H2 Introduction Paragraph (meta description) - includes main keyword "cost basis". Also mention why it's important.
H2 What Is Cost Basis? H3 Definition Paragraph explaining definition.
H2 Steps to Calculate Cost Basis H3 Step 1: Identify the Asset H3 Step 2: Gather Purchase Documentation H3 Step 3: Adjust for Improvements and Capital Expenditures H3 Step bein.<unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk><unk>
