Meta descriptions are the brief summaries that appear below the title and URL of a web page in search engine results. These descriptions are important because they can significantly impact click-through rates from search engine users. As such, taking the time to write concise, compelling, SEO-friendly meta descriptions is essential for good search engine optimization (SEO). In this article, we’ll discuss some best practices for writing meta descriptions that are both informative and optimized for search engines.
Understanding What Meta Descriptions Are
Meta descriptions are HTML tags that provide a brief summary of the content of a web page. They are not visible on the web page itself, but are displayed in search engine results underneath the URL and page title. The goal of a meta description is to provide the user with an idea of what the web page is about before they click on the link.
Google and other search engines may use the meta description when displaying search engine results, so it’s important to create a compelling and concise description that encourages searchers to click through to the page.
Best Practices for Writing SEO-Friendly Meta Descriptions
When writing meta descriptions, it’s important to use strong keywords and phrases related to the content of the web page, as they can help improve the page’s search engine ranking. Additionally, meta descriptions should be written in a way that entices searchers to click through to the page. To write SEO-friendly meta descriptions, you should follow these best practices:
1. Keep Them Short and Sweet
Meta descriptions should be kept short and to the point. They should ideally be between 150 and 160 characters in length, as this is the maximum length that Google will display in its search results. You can use a tool like the Word Counter to check the length of your description before posting it.
2. Make Them Compelling
Your meta description should be written in a way that encourages users to click through to your page. Consider using powerful verbs and phrases, as well as a call-to-action to encourage users to take action. For example, you might use phrases like “Discover”, “Learn”, or “Get the Details”.
3. Use Relevant Keywords
Title tags are still the most important on-page SEO element, but meta descriptions are an important part of search engine optimization as well. Include a few relevant keywords or phrases in your meta description, as they can help improve your page’s search engine ranking. However, be careful not to over-do it – aim for a maximum of 3-4 keywords.
4. Spend Time Crafting Them
Take the time to craft a unique and compelling meta description for each of your web pages. You could also conduct some A/B testing to see which descriptions get the best click-through rates.
Conclusion
Writing SEO-friendly meta descriptions is an important part of optimizing your website for search engines. By following these best practices, you can create compelling and concise meta descriptions that encourage users to click through to your web pages, and improve your search engine rankings.
Remember to keep your descriptions short and to the point, and include strong verbs and phrases. Spend time crafting them, and make sure to include relevant keywords. With these tips, your meta descriptions are sure to be SEO-friendly and effective!