What is a Header (H) Tag?

Header tags, or H tags are a key element in search algorithms used by search engines.  I suppose their value lies in the fact that headers are important elements in scanning text, which is what most people do on a website.  Search engines understand that good headings will make a page easier to read; thus, giving the visitor a better viewing experience.

How H tags are used

Typically, you will see header tags used much like an outline:

H1: Title (first level)

• H2: Second level heading
  • H3: Third level
    • H4:  Fourth level, and so on...
• H2: Second level heading
  • H3: Third level
    • H4:  Fourth level, and so on...

How to write Header Tags

Ensure your H tags are well written to not only attract search engines but more importantly, to attract the reader's eye. They should contain the most important keyphrases that page is hoping to be found on. Never spam an H tag. For example, you would not write a header for Great Used Cars like this:

Used Cars, Great Used Cars, More Cars, Cars, Cars

You're much better to stick with:  "Great Used Cars."

Which H Tags are the most relevant?

Once upon a time, search engines placed the most relevance on the H1 tag, but it didn't take spammers long to figure that one out.  Suddenly, web pages had abundant H1 tags crammed with keywords.  These days, search engine give each H tag the same credit.  The best rule of thumb is to use the H1 tag only once on the page and the other tags as appropriate in outline form.

A properly formatted page with appropriate headers is not only easy on the eyes, it's also well respected by the search engines.

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