Search Engine Optimization is a paradoxical phenomenon. Nobody can confidently predict the exact way to rank first on Google. It depends on various metrics and activities that we perform online. Like on-page SEO, off-page SEO which mainly includes social media and content marketing.
To go deeper into the SEO realm, there is also keyword research, crafting a content marketing plan, revamping website design, etc. There are different tools available to enhance the SEO practices.
Hence, ranking first in Google search engine result pages is a combined process of smart researching, aggressive executing and effective optimizing smaller elements of the whole SEO effort.