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Heading Tag

Last updated: Aug 25, 2023

https://cmlabs.co/en-sg/seo-terms/heading-tag

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What is Heading Tag?

A heading tag or header is HTML tag used to define the title and sub-heading of a web page. In an article, headings are used to show the hierarchical structure of the content.

This structure is ordered by the most important elements in the content. Starting from the H1 tag to highlight the most important discussion points and the H6 tag for the less important discussion. If it is used properly, headings can also increase the readability of your web pages.

Importance of Heading Tag for SEO

The purpose of using header is to make web pages more structured. That way, both readers and search engines can understand the discussion points presented on web pages more easily.

In addition, the presence of headings will also provide a signal to search engines regarding the points that you consider important on the web page. If you include the target keyword in the heading tag, then the chances of your content appearing in search results will also increase.

As we know, the readability of content also affects SEO performance. This can make your content rank better and potentially be selected as a featured snippet. This is the reason why heading tags are important for SEO.

Heading Tag Types and Functions

Some of you may be wondering how many headings you can use. There are actually six types of heading tags (H1-H6 tag), but the most commonly used are H1 to H3.

H1 is the heading with the highest level and has the largest size, while H6 is the lowest level heading and has the smallest size. Take a look at the meaning and function of each of the following heading tags.

H1 Tags

The H1 tag is a type of heading used to mark the most important elements in a web page. This tag is usually used in making post titles. It would be better if you add your target keyword in the H1 tag so that search engines understand the important information in your content and this trick can also attract the attention of readers.

H2 Tags

The function of heading 1 and heading 2 is to highlight the most important sections and subsections of content. So, the H2 tag is usually used to create sub-headings that support the discussion on the H1 tag.

H3 tags

The H3 tag is a type of heading that is used to clarify the discussion points in the H2 tag. In writing web content or articles, H3 tags are usually used in the form of lists or bullet points.

H4 tags

Just like heading 3, the function of the H4 tag is to provide further explanation regarding the discussion points presented in the H3 tag.

H5 tags

The H5 tag is a type of heading used to highlight important subsections of a web page. You can use this heading to clarify the discussion presented in the H4 tag.

H6 tags

The H6 tag is also a type of heading used to mark subsections. You should use this heading to support the explanation given in the H5 tag.

Heading Tag Optimization Tips For SEO

No doubt, a well-structured web page will make it easier for readers and search engines to understand the information on that page. You can use heading tags to create a good page structure. The tips for creating a header are as follows:

Use headings to highlight important topics of your content.
Headings with higher levels are used to mark more important sections. For example, you can use H1 tags for titles and H2 tags for subtitles.
Just use one H1 tag that represents the title or main subject of a web page.
Use heading levels in order, starting with the H1 tag, then H2, H3, H4, and so on.
Add target keywords naturally to the headings if possible.
Make sure the heading tags are neither too long nor too short because the best practice in creating a header is to keep them informative and easy to read.