Google Clarifies H1-H6 Headings For SEO Via @Sejournal, @Martinibuster

There’s been a lot of chatter about how Google interprets H1-H6 headings in SEO, and some confusion regarding their importance. Thankfully, Google’s John Mueller has recently cleared the air with some definitive statements. Let’s break down what you need to know:

The Basics:

 H1 is the most important heading. It should be used once per page and clearly represent the main topic of the content.
 H2-H6 are subheadings. They break down the main topic into smaller, more digestible sections.

Key Takeaways From Google:

 Google understands the hierarchy of headings. It uses the structure to understand the page’s content and its organization.
 Don’t over-rely on H1s. Use them sparingly and only for the most important subject on the page.
 Use H2-H6 to create a clear structure. This makes the content more readable for users and helps Google understand the relationships between topics.
 Don’t force H1s for keyword density. Google can recognize your keywords even without stuffing them into H1 tags. Focus on writing natural and informative content.
 Consistency is key. Use headings logically and consistently to create a clear hierarchy throughout your page.

Practical Tips:

 Think about your page’s structure. How can you divide the content into logical sections?
 Choose descriptive H1 and H2 tags. Use words that accurately represent the content of the section.
 Use headings for readability. Help users scan the page and quickly find the information they need.
 Use H1-H6 sparingly. Avoid overusing headings or creating too many levels of hierarchy.

In Conclusion:

While Google doesn’t explicitly state that headings are a ranking factor, they play a crucial role in SEO by improving user experience and helping Google understand the content of your page.

By following the guidelines outlined above, you can leverage the power of headings to create clear, well-structured content that both Google and your users will appreciate.