Top Ten Secrets To Search Engine Optimization

That elusive thing called search engine optimization, everyone knows, is one great key to getting a good page rank - which, of course, can lead to much more traffic. While many think that it is mysterious, or something to be relegated to the experts, the truth is that it is attainable by anyone who will take a little time to read about it. Here are the top ten secrets to search engine optimization that anyone can apply and use to increase their rankings.

1.  Determine your key words

Key words are simply the terms that people will type into the search engines when they are looking for something – hopefully, what you want them to see, and buy. These keywords should be narrowed down to be able to focus on that little niche topic that you are specializing in. You can find the best keywords for your niche by using tools such as the Google Adwords Traffic Estimator; Nichebot, Overture, Wordtracker, and more.

2.  Focus Each Web Page On A Single Topic or Keyword

Be very selective about what you put on each web page. If you have random subjects, and you place ads about all kinds of things on that page, it will give you a low page rank. On the other hand, if you have, say, a travel web page, and you make one page that deals only with travel luggage on the page - it will help you get a better page rank. Remember that the purpose of the search engines is to provide the reader with valuable content - make it valuable to your reader and you will find it gives you an overall better page rank by focusing on a single theme.

3.  Provide Quality Content

Since readers are looking for content - give them some good stuff. Search engine optimization means giving the search engines something that they can read, too. It must be able to tell that you have content related to your title. Seek to provide content articles about 450-600 words long.

4.  Place Keywords In Metatag Title

This tells the search engines what your page is supposed to be about. While it will not determine your page rank by itself, it will add up when combined with the other features mentioned in this article.

5.  Put Keywords In Your Metatag Description

Again, repetition is important. While some think that this may not matter any more, the time it takes to put it in is negligent, and it sure cannot hurt.

6.  Use Keywords Spaced Throughout Your Article

Place your primary keywords in the first paragraph of your articles, every other paragraph after that, and in the last paragraph. Secondary keywords should be used less.

7.  Put Keywords In Titles And Subtitles

This shows focus of thought on a single keyword subject.

8.  Avoid Keyword Stuffing

It is most important for you to make your content readable. The goal of keyword use needs to be only 4-6% - or, about once per paragraph, and you can even skip one or two.

Overall, if you write your content so as to attract the human readers, you have the right focus. The computer can tell the difference, and might ban your website, otherwise.

9.  Use Keywords In Graphic Descriptions And Links

Put your keywords into your links and descriptions of your graphics.

10. Avoid Fancy Coding

Much of the fancy coding that is in use today cannot be read by some of the search engines. You may be using it to your detriment. By sticking with the simpler styles of web page design, and limited special effects, you can increase your page rank.

These top ten secrets to search engine optimization are here for your benefit. But it can only do you good if you examine each of your web pages in light of these ten things, and then make the necessary corrections. Also, remember that search engine optimization rules change, so you will want to keep up on the latest developments.