HTML header tags make it easier for people and search engines to get a quick understanding of what a page is about. Moreover, it can indirectly influence your search engine rankings.
For the untrained marketer, these tags can be broken down into varying priorities, from <h1> to <h6> tags. It’s vital to know precisely what they are, why they’re essential, plus how to use them properly for increased benefits.
Part 1 of this article looked at header tags, their benefits to your website, and how to properly use them. Now, we’ll break down each header tag and how you can optimise their function. Let’s begin!
Looking Closely at Header Tags
Header tags are a type of HTML tags used to mark headings and other vital parts on a page and draw out critical pieces of information. This visually separates your web page into sections, making it easier to read for your users or followers.
Heading tags generally come in six different levels of importance, with the most important one being <h1> until <h6>, the least important.
For example, a <h1> tag on a website notifies search engines and users that this is the most significant content on the page and should be displayed first.
Therefore, the most significant component of your web page will be your content, not your navigation.
How to Properly Use Header Tags
1. <h1> Tags
The <h1> tag is used to identify titles like the name of your website or a key phrase. There are two things you should always keep in mind when using an <h1> tag.
First, make sure that the text you’re using to identify the top of your web page should be the same as the headline of your web page.
Second, don’t overuse <h1> tags, as each <h1> tag should only be used once per page.
Over-emphasising your heading can take away from the text you want your visitors to see instead, resulting in a poor user experience.
2. <h2> Tags
Just like the <h1> tag, the <h2> tag should be used only once per page. It should always be placed immediately after the content in a section, as long as it’s not followed by an image or link.
The only exception is if you have an h3 tag that comes after one or more headings that are <h2> tags.
3. <h3> to <h6> Tags
You can further divide your web page into sections by adding several sub-header tags behind your main heading, from <h3> tag to <h6> tag (if needed). Most readable SEO articles often end with <h3> to <h4> tags.
These tags should be used sparingly, as they are generally used to identify subheadings, titles, and captions. They appear smaller than <h1> to <h2> tag and must be used after a level <h2> or a <h1> tag, as it’s generally easier to scan.
The text should be short and sweet. They should also be placed below any images, as they should not be separated by more than a few lines of text.
Remember that each time you start a new section, you should also decrease the font size by one level.
4. Primary versus Secondary Headers
By default, anything that’s not a <h1> tag is considered a secondary header.
It’s important to know when to use a secondary header so that you don’t take up too much of your users’ precious time.
Use a secondary header to highlight the main point that is not necessarily the most important in the section, such as an essential supporting fact or a side point.
A secondary header should be used in the same way as an <h2> tag but can also be used in place of an <h3> tag.
Prioritise Header Tags for Better Rankings
Header tags are important for having a great user experience and search engine optimisation. Make sure to use them properly for the best results for your website!
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