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  2. SEO Glossary
  3. Headings

Headings

Headings are important elements in web content that help organize and structure information on a webpage. They make it easier for both visitors and search engines to understand the content. Headings are displayed as larger, bold text but are also coded with HTML to indicate different levels of importance. There are six levels of headings, from H1 (the most important) to H6 (the least important).

Types of Headings

  • H1 Heading: This is the main heading of the page, typically used for the title or central topic. It should only be used once per page to represent the main idea.
  • H2-H6 Headings: These are used for subheadings, with H2 breaking down the main sections and H3-H6 further organizing the content into smaller subsections.

For example, if you are writing an article about SEO, the H1 could be “What is SEO?”, H2s might be “On-Page SEO” and “Off-Page SEO,” and within those sections, H3s can be used to break down further details like “Keyword Research” or “Link Building.”

Why Are Headings Important?

1. User Experience: Headings help break down content into readable sections, making it easier for users to find the information they need quickly. Without headings, users may find the page difficult to scan and navigate, leading to higher bounce rates.

2. SEO: Search engines like Google use headings to understand the structure and relevance of a webpage. The content inside heading tags is given more weight, especially the H1 tag. Including keywords naturally in your headings can help improve the page’s ranking.

3. Accessibility: Headings also enhance accessibility for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers. These tools use headings to help users navigate through content efficiently, improving the overall user experience.

Best Practices for Using Headings

  • Use only one H1 per page to clearly define the main topic.
  • Organize content with H2 and H3 for clarity and ease of reading.
  • Avoid keyword stuffing in headings—make sure they are natural and readable.
  • Maintain a logical hierarchy without skipping heading levels (e.g., don’t go from H1 to H4 without using H2 or H3).
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