What Is On-Page SEO?
On-page SEO refers to the practice of optimizing elements on a webpage to improve its rankings and attract visitors from search engine results pages (SERPs). Bloggers typically have more control over on-page SEO, which makes it easier to execute than other types of SEO.
On-page SEO includes techniques such as:
- Adding sisäiset linkit
- Using the proper header tags
- Using the appropriate meta tags
- Adding structured data to your content
- Optimizing and reducing your image file size
- Using a relevant and descriptive URL structure
- Including relevant titles and alt texts to your images
- Including relevant keywords in the visible content
On-page SEO is one of the four types of SEO. The others are:
- Off-page SEO: This refers to the SEO activities that occur on external sites
- Tekninen SEO: This refers to the optimizations done on your website code and server
- Paikallinen SEO: This refers to the optimizations done by sites looking to rank for local search results
Importance of On-Page SEO
On-page SEO determines how search engines understand your page’s content. This helps search engines accurately index the page, improving its chances of ranking for relevant keywords ja search terms on search engine results pages.
On-page SEO also improves the käyttökokemusta of the site’s visitors. Visitors are more likely to remain on pages that are well-organized, easy to read, and relevant to the hakutarkoitus. These pages also typically have lower bounce rates and higher click-through rates than those with poor on-page SEO.
That said, bloggers generally have considerable control over their on-page SEO. This gives it an edge over off-page and local SEO. On-page SEO also has an edge over technical SEO, as it does not require any technical expertise or knowledge. So, any blogger without web development expertise can do their on-page SEO themselves.
On-Page SEO Best Practices
On-page SEO is crucial for bloggers seeking to optimize their content for high search engine rankings. You can refer to this guide for comprehensive tips on optimizing your site for on-page SEO. However, make sure that it follows the best practices listed below.
1 Use Descriptive Meta Titles and Descriptions
Meta titles (also known as title tags) and meta descriptions are the titles and descriptions that appear in search engine results pages. They help visitors and search engines understand the page’s content, and also encourage visitors to click on the content from search results pages.
Ensure to use meta titles and descriptions that accurately describe the page, contain your keywords, and encourage prospective visitors to click. However, make sure to include keywords only when they are relevant. Do not stuff them into the title and description.
2 Use the Proper Header Tag
Header tags enable you to structure your content effectively. Therefore, ensure that you use them appropriately. For instance, you should have only one H1 tag on your page, and it should clearly specify the page’s topic.
Any subsequent subheadings should be specified using the H2 tag. The H3 tag should specify any header under the H2 subheading, while the H4 heading specifies entries under the H3 heading.
3 Avoid Keyword-Stuffing
Avainsanojen täyttäminen violates Google Search Essentials guidelines. They affect readability and can cause Google to issue a manual action penalty against your site. When that happens, Google will demote your site on search results pages or even remove it completely.
Therefore, ensure that you only include your keywords where relevant and necessary. If your keyword does not fit into a sentence or context, do not force it in.
4 Optimize Your Image File Name and Alt Text
Search engines use image file names and alt text to understand the content of your images. Therefore, ensure that you include descriptive and relevant keywords in both the image file name and alt text.
The alt text itself is usually visible to visitors who have switched off their images or cannot load the image for whatever reason. Visually impaired visitors with screen readers also rely on alt text to understand your images.
You will apply the alt text after uploading the photo to your site, but you will usually name your image files before uploading them to your site. If you have already uploaded the image, then you may need a third-party image renaming plugin to rename it.
5 Use Clean and Descriptive URLs
Use short and descriptive URLs. They are easy to read and recall. They also provide visitors and search engines with an idea of your page’s content and site structure, and are a very light ranking factor. As usual, ensure to include relevant keywords in the URL when possible.
6 Include Relevant Schema Markups
Schema markups allow search engines to better understand your content. Many search engines also require you to include them in the content you want them to consider for rich results. So, make sure to include relevant Schema markup in your content.
7 Use a Clear Site Navigation
A straightforward and intuitive site navigation menu helps visitors and search engines find your content and understand your content hierarchy. It also allows search engines to crawl and index your pages more effectively. This makes a navigation menu a crucial element for sites looking to rank on Google.
Ensure your navigation menu is positioned at a prominent location on your site. It should be easily accessible, contain simple words and phrases, and be easy to understand.