Featured snippets disproportionately reward content that directly and concisely answers a specific question, which is exactly the shape most long-tail queries take.
Target Question-Based Long-Tail Terms Specifically
A long-tail phrase framed as a direct question is a strong candidate for snippet optimization, more so than a broader, ambiguous term.
Answer Immediately, Then Expand
State the direct answer to the long-tail question in the first sentence of the relevant section, then follow with supporting detail.
Use the Format the Question Implies
A "how to" long-tail query favors numbered steps; a comparison-style long-tail query favors a table; match the format to the query type.
Next step: Use the Longtail Keywords Tool to identify question-style long-tail phrases worth structuring your content around for snippet visibility.