Meta tags are used to add descriptive information to a web page, mostly for search engine robots. These tags are placed in the “Head” of each page of your website, and, when used properly, can help your site be listed as you desire it to be…
Introduction
Meta tags are used to add descriptive information to a web page, mostly for search engine robots. These tags are placed in the “Head” of each page of your website, and, when used properly, can help your site be listed as you desire it to be.
Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Place Meta Tags on Page
Steps
1
Step One
Put meta tags between the “Head” tags at the beginning of your HTML programming. The title, description, keywords, robots and other meta elements each get their own tag within the “Head” section.
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Step Two
Be sure to include both required elements of the meta tag: “name” and “content.”
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Step Three
Use only text in the meta tags. Photos, graphics, links, flash and java are not read within the tags.
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Step Four
Remember that the meta tags are hidden within the HTML of the web page, so visitors to the site will not be able to see them unless they “View Source.” However, some search engines pull directly from the meta tags, so try to avoid typos and spelling errors.
Use Meta Tags Properly
Steps
1
Step One
Choose which meta tags you need for each page. While a description and keywords are most common, you can also use tags for copyright information, frequency of updates or author. Check out the Slacker’s Guide to HTML for a list of some frequently used meta tags (see Resources below).
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Step Two
Focus on the description and keywords on each page. This information is often pulled directly by search engines. You should also include a title. While not actually a meta tag, a title is often seen on search engine listings.
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Step Three
Avoid spamming by unnaturally repeating keywords. Many search engines claim they no longer use the keywords tag, but when used properly, it adds an important element to your web page. Use descriptive terms that describe the actual content on the page. Most search engines read up to 1,000 characters.
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Step Four
Make sure the first sentence of your description says it all. Most search engines only use the first 10 to 25 words, so while you can make your description longer, the first sentence should clearly summarize your site’s content.
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Step Five
Customize your meta tags to your site. If you are pulling a site map on a regular basis, your meta tags should hold the information needed for your requirements. This may allow you to automate the process.
Overall Tips & Warnings
* Be as concise as possible with your keywords. “California Real Estate” will generate more hits than simply “Real Estate.”
* Include well written content that uses your keywords on each page of your site. Your actual website copy usually works better for search engine optimization (SEO) than a few meta tags.
