The Significance of HTML "Heading" Tags and SEO

By Candice Pardue

Why Heading Tags are so Important to Improve Your Web Page SEO

 

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What are Heading Tags?

Heading tags label your headline so that search engines will recognize it as "important" on your web page.  The heading tags will make your headline bolder so it will stand out.  The following examples show how your headlines and sub-headings might look within a heading tag in the raw HTML code.

<h1>5 Ways to Skyrocket Your Web Business</h1>

<h2>1.  Test Your Content for Results</h2>

<h2>2.  Use an Email List to Bring Visitors Back to Your Site Again and Again</h2>

<h3>a.  How to Send Bulk Emails without Spamming</h3>
<h3>b.  How to Write an E-zine or Electronic Newsletter</h3> 

What are Different Types of Heading Tags?

Notice in the example above there are three different heading tags (h1,h2,h3).  These indicate not only the size of the heading but also the importance.  Once again, the main headline will need an "h1" code to give it the greatest importance.  The main sub-headings, which are numbers one, two, and so on in the article outline deserve an "h2" showing they are next in line when it comes to importance.  The "h3" can be given to sub-headings under the main sub-headings such as "a,b,c" points in the article outline above.

SEO and Heading Tags

When the importance of a heading is established with HTML tags, you're actually making it easy for the search engine robots to determine what your web page is all about.  The search engine doesn't have to guess at it.  It can see exactly what your main topic is and place you under the appropriate keywords so your potential customers will be able to find you on the WWW.

Heading Hints

When writing your headings, include your main keywords in the headings.  Be as specific as possible to increase your chances of being listed in a reasonable spot in the search engines.  General search terms or keywords usually generate poor indexing because so many websites use them.  Use a research tool such as the one available at Overture.com to find popular keywords in your field.

Examples:

General keyword:  web design
Specific keyword:  web design training

Headline:  Web Design Training for Beginners - Learn Design with Simple Instructions

General keyword:  home decor
Specific keyword:  bathroom home decor

Headline:  Use these Bathroom Home Decor Tips to Add Value to Your Home

Also, don't forget to optimize your entire web page, not just your headings.  Your headings are only a small part of SEO.  There are other key areas to include your important keywords as well such as your text links, alt text within graphics or photos on your web page, within your article text, and in your HTML meta tags.