SEO Basics: Optimising Header Tags

2. Header tags are important for users and SEO. It has an indirect effect on SERP rankings. Scannable and readable content through keyword-rich headers is more enjoyable for users, providing lower bounce back rates. Optimised headers also provide search engines with a better understanding of the page’s content. As SEO professionals, optimising header tags is a must.

3. As a guide, Search Engine Journal provides seven tactics you can do to optimise header tags: Use headers to provide structure and context - Header tags should provide article structure and context. Readers will grasp the idea of your article easier if the header tags are written properly.  - H1 – introduces the topic, like a title of a book  - H2 – describes the main topics, like a book’s chapters H3s to hH6s – describes sub-topics, like sub-sections of a chapter

4. Use only one H1  - Although Google claims it’s alright to use multiple H1s, it’s not really recommended. Since H1s are big and introduces the article’s topic, having multiple H1s can be confusing and ugly for readers. Use headers to separate or break up text  - Using headers for text breaks makes the article easier to scan and read. A scannable and readable piece has better performance in search engines and users.

5. Include keywords in the header tags - Google looks at header tags to understand the context of the page. Adding keywords in most, if not all, headers should be natural and not spammy. Make sure header tags are consistent - Consistency is key for user experience. Keeping header tags consistent makes it easier for readers to scan, skim, and digest your article. Ensure header tags are short but interesting - Keep the length of the headers short. It should be around the same length of your title tags (70 characters at most). Make sure your headers are informative and not just one word without context.

6. Optimise for featured snippets - Optimise a header tag for a long-tail voice search keyword and answer the query directly below within the paragraph tags. - Optimise the sub or smaller headings for Google’s own bulleted and numbered lists featured snippet results. Conclusion: Audit and edit old articles regularly. Check if your headers need tweaks. Optimising header tags will help the page rank better in the SERP.

7. Source: https://anythingseo.wordpress.com/2018/08 /06/seo-basics-optimising-header-tags/