Title tags are an important but often overlooked element of every page. Not only do they make your page or post look more appealing to searchers, but they also play an important role in SEO.
To help you get the most out of your title tags we’ve put together all the information you need to find out what they are, as well as tips on writing a good one.
What is a title tag?
A title tag, also known as a meta tag, is an HTML element used to provide search engines and searchers information on what a particular web page is about.
In short, a title tag is like a heading that’s supposed to tell both users and search engines what they’ll find on your page.
Here’s one below:
Why are title tags important for SEO?
Title tags are important for SEO because they work with other onpage factors to increase a page’s relevance to themes and keywords. A good title tag also attracts clicks from searchers, thereby improving CTR (click through rate).
While it’s debatable whether title tags are a ranking factor, many SEOs believe they do play a role.
Where does my title tag go?
Title tags should be placed in <head> section of the HTML code. Most content management systems (CMSs), such as WordPress, makes it simple by including a field where you can easily add your title tag.
WordPress usually provides a default title tag (from the heading), but you can override it with plugins like Yoast.
What is SEO best practice for writing title tags?
- Ensure that each title tag for each page is unique
- Ensure that the length is between 55 and 65 characters (maximum of 512 pixels)
- Use primary keywords (relating to the page) to start your title tag
- Ensure that your title tag accurately describes what the page is about
- If you can, include a call to action
- Don’t repeat keywords if you can avoid it
Here are some examples:
Examples of poor title tags:
Nike Trainers – Too short and not descriptive enough.
Buy Nike shoes today – Men and Women trainers on sale – Nike Store | Nike- Too long and main keywords are in the wrong place
Nike store – Men and Women – Nike Trainers – Here the main keyword (Nike Trainers) is not used first
Example of a good title tag:
- Nike Trainers Sale – Men and Women Shoes | Nike Store
Although not exactly an earth-shattering title, this title tag uses good keywords in front, isn’t too long or short and it gives us a pretty good idea of what we’re going to see if we click on that page.
It’s really as simple as that.
See? We told you it’d be quick. If you can manage to perfect this technique you’ll find yourself on the right side of both users and Google, and will improve your CTR to boot. Enjoy!
Tags: SEO, title tags
Stay In The Know
Cut the clutter and stay on top of important news like this. We handpick the single most noteworthy news of the week and send it directly to subscribers. Join the club to stay in the know…
About Steph Von der Heyde
Our resident wordsmith’s love of digital lured her over from advertising to the online space, where she fell in love with content marketing. Since coming to the online world Steph has made her mark on all outgoing CleverClicks copy and is passionate about using words to build brands. Her obsession with the writing is rivaled only by her love of trail running, yoga and green juice. When she’s not submerged in content strategy you’ll find Steph in Downward Dog.