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  • SEO Guide for Beginners

    SEO Guide for Beginners

    When you first built your website, you probably had a vision in mind: a place where visitors could easily find and explore your content. Maybe you wanted to share your passion, grow your business, or connect with like-minded people.

    But here’s the thing—your website isn’t just for human visitors. There’s another important “visitor” to consider: search engines. These digital explorers help people discover your site by indexing your content and displaying it in search results.

    That’s where SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, comes in. SEO is all about helping search engines understand your content so that users can find your site and decide to click through to it.

    In this guide, we’ll walk through the basics of SEO in a way that’s personal, relatable, and easy to understand. Whether you’re running a blog, an online store, or a portfolio site, these tips will help you improve your site’s visibility and make it easier for people to find you.

    Understanding How Google Search Works

    Let’s start with the basics. Google uses automated programs called crawlers (or spiders) to explore the web. Think of these crawlers as tiny robots that scan websites, follow links, and add pages to Google’s massive index. The good news? You don’t need to do much to get started. Simply publishing your site online is usually enough for Google to find it.

    But if you’re like me and love to geek out on the details, Google provides extensive documentation on how it discovers, crawls, and serves web pages. Understanding this process can help you fine-tune your site for better visibility. For example, knowing how crawlers work can help you avoid common mistakes, like blocking important pages accidentally.

    Be Patient with Search Results

    Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. When you make changes to your site, don’t expect instant results. It can take anywhere from a few hours to several months for Google to reflect those updates in its search results. Typically, you’ll want to wait a few weeks to see if your efforts are paying off.

    I remember updating a blog post with new keywords and checking Google every day, wondering why nothing had changed. It was frustrating at first, but eventually, I saw a steady increase in traffic. The key is to be patient and persistent. Not every change will lead to a noticeable improvement, but over time, those small tweaks can add up.

    Helping Google Find Your Content

    1. Check if Google Has Already Found Your Site

    Before diving into complex SEO strategies, it’s important to know if Google has even found your site. You can do this by using the site: search operator. For example, type site:yourwebsite.com into Google. If results appear, your site is in Google’s index. If not, there may be technical issues preventing Google from crawling your site.

    2. Leverage Links

    Google primarily discovers new pages by following links from sites it already knows. This means that getting other websites to link to yours is incredibly valuable. Over time, you can encourage this naturally by creating high-quality content that others want to share. You can also promote your content through social media, blogs, or guest posts to increase its visibility.

    3. Submit a Sitemap

    A sitemap is a file that lists all the URLs on your site. While not mandatory, submitting one can help Google discover your pages more efficiently. Many content management systems (CMS) like WordPress can generate and submit sitemaps automatically. It’s like giving Google a map of your site, making it easier for crawlers to navigate.

    Ensuring Google Sees Your Page Like Users Do

    Google needs to access the same resources (like CSS, JavaScript, and images) that users see. If your site hides important components, Google might not fully understand your pages, which could hurt your rankings. To check how Google views your page, use the URL Inspection Tool in Google Search Console. This tool gives you a detailed look at how Googlebot interacts with your site.

    I once made the mistake of blocking CSS files accidentally, and my site’s rankings dropped overnight. It was a wake-up call to double-check how Google was seeing my pages. The URL Inspection Tool helped me identify and fix the issue quickly.

    Controlling What Appears in Search Results

    When it comes to SEO, one of the most common misconceptions is that you have complete control over what appears in search results. The truth is, while you can optimize your site and guide search engines like Google, you can’t fully dictate how or when your content will show up. Google’s algorithms are complex and constantly evolving, which means there’s always an element of unpredictability. However, you can take steps to influence what gets indexed and how your site is represented in search results.

    Not Every Page Needs to Be in Search Results

    Let’s be honest—not every page on your site is meant for public consumption. Maybe you have personal blog posts, internal admin pages, or draft content that you don’t want showing up in search results. That’s perfectly okay! In fact, it’s a good practice to keep irrelevant or sensitive pages out of Google’s index. This not only protects your privacy but also ensures that users are directed to the most relevant and useful parts of your site.

    Tools to Control Indexing

    Google provides a few tools to help you manage what gets indexed:

    1. robots.txt:
      This is a file you can place on your server to tell search engine crawlers which pages or sections of your site they should or shouldn’t access. For example, if you have a private section of your site, you can block crawlers from accessing it. However, keep in mind that robots.txt is more of a suggestion than a hard rule—some crawlers might ignore it.
    2. Noindex Tags:
      If you want to prevent specific pages from appearing in search results, you can add a noindex meta tag to the page’s HTML. This tells Google not to include the page in its index. It’s a more direct way to control indexing compared to robots.txt.
    3. Password Protection:
      For highly sensitive content, you can password-protect pages. This ensures that only authorized users can access them, and search engines won’t even try to index them.

    Realistically, You Can’t Control Everything

    Here’s the reality: even with these tools, you can’t fully control what appears in search results. Google’s algorithms make the final call, and sometimes they might interpret your site differently than you intended. For example, you might optimize a page for a specific keyword, but Google might decide that another page on your site is more relevant for that search term. Or, you might accidentally block an important page with robots.txt without realizing it.

    The key is to focus on what you can control. Optimize your site as best as you can, use tools like robots.txt and noindex tags wisely, and regularly monitor your site’s performance in Google Search Console. If something doesn’t look right, you can make adjustments and see how Google responds.

    What If Something Slips Through?

    Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a page you didn’t want indexed might still appear in search results. If this happens, don’t panic. You can:

    • Double-check your robots.txt file and noindex tags to ensure they’re set up correctly.
    • Use the Removal Tool in Google Search Console to request that a specific URL be removed from search results temporarily.
    • Reach out to Google’s support forums or help documentation for guidance.

    The Bigger Picture

    At the end of the day, SEO is about working with search engines, not against them. While you can’t control every aspect of how your site appears in search results, you can create a clear, well-structured site that makes it easy for Google to understand your content. Think of it as a partnership: you provide the best possible version of your site, and Google does its best to match it with the right users.

    So, while you might not have full control, you do have the power to influence the process. Focus on optimizing your site, monitoring its performance, and making adjustments as needed. Over time, you’ll see improvements in how your site is represented in search results—and that’s what really matters.

    Organizing Your Site for Better SEO: A Roadmap to Clarity and Efficiency

    When it comes to SEO, the way you organize your website is just as important as the content you create. A well-structured site not only helps users navigate effortlessly but also makes it easier for search engines to understand and index your content. Think of your website as a library—if the books are scattered randomly, no one can find what they’re looking for. But if everything is neatly categorized and labeled, both visitors and search engines can quickly locate the information they need.

    Here’s a detailed guide to organizing your site for better SEO, with practical tips and relatable examples to help you get started.

    1. Use Descriptive URLs

    Why Descriptive URLs Matter

    Imagine you’re searching for a recipe online. Which URL would you trust more:

    • www.example.com/recipes/vegan-chocolate-cake
    • www.example.com/page123?id=4567

    The first one, right? Descriptive URLs are like signposts—they tell users and search engines exactly what to expect on the page. They’re also easier to share and remember, which can improve click-through rates.

    How to Create Descriptive URLs

    • Keep it simple and relevant: Use words that clearly describe the page’s content. For example, if you’re writing about travel tips for Italy, a URL like www.example.com/travel/italy-tips is far better than www.example.com/category1/post123.
    • Use hyphens to separate words: Avoid underscores or spaces. For example, www.example.com/digital-marketing-tips is better than www.example.com/digitalmarketingtips.
    • Avoid unnecessary parameters: Long strings of numbers or symbols can confuse both users and search engines. Stick to clean, readable URLs.

    A Personal Tip

    When I first started my blog, I didn’t pay much attention to URLs. I let my CMS generate them automatically, which resulted in messy, uninformative links. Once I switched to descriptive URLs, I noticed a small but steady increase in traffic. It’s a simple change, but it makes a big difference.

    2. Group Similar Pages

    Why Grouping Pages is Important

    Grouping related pages into directories (or folders) helps both users and search engines understand the structure of your site. It’s like organizing your closet—you wouldn’t mix socks with winter coats, right? The same logic applies to your website.

    How to Group Pages Effectively

    • Create logical categories: Think about the main topics or services your site covers. For example, if you run an online store, you might have categories like www.example.com/shoes, www.example.com/accessories, and www.example.com/sale.
    • Use subcategories for deeper organization: If you have a lot of content, break it down further. For instance, www.example.com/shoes/sneakers and www.example.com/shoes/boots make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for.
    • Keep it user-friendly: Don’t create too many layers of subcategories. If users have to click through five levels to find a page, they might give up.

    How This Helps SEO:
    Grouping pages helps Google understand the relationships between your content. For example, if you have a blog post about “10 Best Running Shoes” in your www.example.com/shoes directory, Google will recognize that it’s related to other shoe-related content. This can improve your site’s overall relevance for specific topics.

    3. Reduce Duplicate Content

    Why Duplicate Content is a Problem

    Duplicate content occurs when the same (or very similar) content appears on multiple URLs. This can confuse users and search engines, as they don’t know which version to prioritize. It can also dilute your SEO efforts, as search engines may split ranking signals between the duplicates.

    Common Causes of Duplicate Content

    • URL variations: For example, www.example.com/page and www.example.com/page/ (with a trailing slash) might both load the same content.
    • Printer-friendly versions: Some sites create separate pages for printer-friendly versions of articles.
    • Session IDs: E-commerce sites often use session IDs in URLs, which can create multiple versions of the same page.

    How to Fix Duplicate Content

    1. Use Canonical Tags: A canonical tag tells search engines which version of a page is the “main” one. For example, if you have two similar pages, you can add <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.example.com/main-page/" /> to the duplicate page to point to the original.
    2. Set Up 301 Redirects: If you’ve moved a page or consolidated content, use a 301 redirect to send users and search engines to the new URL.
    3. Consolidate Similar Pages: If you have multiple pages with overlapping content, consider merging them into one comprehensive page.

    A Real-Life Example:
    I once worked with a client who had two nearly identical blog posts about “Beginner Yoga Tips.” One was on www.example.com/yoga-tips and the other on www.example.com/blog/yoga-tips. We used a canonical tag to point to the first URL and redirected the second one. Within a few weeks, the original page started ranking higher in search results.

    4. Create a Logical Internal Linking Structure

    Why Internal Links Matter

    Internal links are the connections between pages on your site. They help users navigate your content and give search engines a roadmap of your site’s structure. A well-thought-out internal linking strategy can boost your SEO by spreading “link equity” (the value passed through links) across your site.

    How to Build a Strong Internal Linking Structure

    • Link to related content: If you’re writing about “How to Train a Puppy,” link to your other posts like “Best Dog Food for Puppies” or “House Training Tips.”
    • Use descriptive anchor text: Instead of “Click here,” use phrases like “Learn more about puppy training” to give context.
    • Create a hub-and-spoke model: Designate key pages as “hubs” (e.g., your homepage or category pages) and link to related “spoke” pages (e.g., individual blog posts or product pages).

    5. Optimize Your Navigation Menu

    Why Navigation Matters

    Your navigation menu is like the table of contents for your site. A clear, intuitive menu helps users find what they’re looking for quickly, which improves their experience and keeps them on your site longer.

    Tips for Optimizing Navigation

    • Keep it simple: Limit your main menu to 5-7 items. Use dropdowns for subcategories if needed.
    • Use clear labels: Avoid jargon or clever names that might confuse users. For example, “Shop” is better than “Explore Our Collection.”
    • Include a search bar: If your site has a lot of content, a search bar can help users find specific pages quickly.

    6. Use Breadcrumbs for Easy Navigation

    What Are Breadcrumbs?

    Breadcrumbs are a secondary navigation tool that shows users their location on your site. For example:
    Home > Blog > Travel > Italy Tips

    Why Breadcrumbs Are Helpful

    • They improve user experience by making it easy to backtrack.
    • They help search engines understand the hierarchy of your site.
    • They often appear in search results, making your listings more appealing.

    Organizing your site for better SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with small, manageable changes like cleaning up your URLs and grouping similar pages. Over time, these efforts will add up, making your site more user-friendly and search-engine-friendly.

    Creating Content That Stands Out: The Heart of SEO

    Let’s be honest—creating content can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re writing blog posts, product descriptions, or landing pages, it’s easy to get stuck wondering, “Is this good enough?” 

    The truth is, high-quality content is the backbone of SEO. It’s what keeps people coming back to your site and helps search engines understand what you’re all about.

    But what does “high-quality” really mean? Let’s break it down in a way that’s practical, relatable, and actionable.

    1. Write for Your Audience, Not Just for Google

    When I first started blogging, I made the mistake of writing for search engines instead of people. I stuffed my posts with keywords, hoping to rank higher, but the result was clunky, unnatural writing that no one wanted to read. Sound familiar? Here’s the thing: Google’s algorithms are smarter than ever. They’re designed to reward content that genuinely helps people.

    So, how do you write for your audience? Start by asking yourself:

    • Who is my target audience? Are they beginners, experts, or somewhere in between?
    • What problems are they trying to solve? Your content should provide answers, solutions, or inspiration.
    • What tone resonates with them? A friendly, conversational tone often works best, but it depends on your niche.

    For example, if you’re writing a blog post about “how to start a vegetable garden,” don’t just list steps. Share personal stories, like the time you accidentally grew a zucchini the size of a baseball bat. Make it relatable, engaging, and packed with value.

    2. Anticipate Search Terms (But Don’t Overdo It)

    Let’s talk about keywords—those words and phrases people type into Google to find content. While it’s important to include them, the key is to do it naturally. Think of it like seasoning a dish: too little, and it’s bland; too much, and it’s inedible.

    Here’s how to strike the right balance:

    • Do Your Research: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or even Google’s “People also ask” section to find relevant search terms. For example, if you’re writing about “healthy meal prep,” you might discover related terms like “quick healthy recipes” or “meal prep for beginners.”
    • Think Like Your Audience: What would you search for if you were looking for your content? For instance, someone searching for “best running shoes” might also type in “comfortable running shoes for flat feet” or “durable running shoes for trail running.”
    • Avoid Keyword Stuffing: There was a time when repeating keywords over and over actually worked. Those days are long gone. Now, it just makes your content sound robotic and spammy. Instead, focus on creating a natural flow.

    Pro tip: Don’t forget about long-tail keywords—those longer, more specific phrases. They might have lower search volume, but they often attract more targeted traffic. For example, “how to fix a leaky faucet” is more specific (and easier to rank for) than just “plumbing tips.”

    3. Use Links Wisely (They’re Like Breadcrumbs for Your Readers)

    Links are like the connective tissue of the internet. They help users and search engines discover more content, and they add credibility to your site. But not all links are created equal. Here’s how to use them effectively:

    • Internal Links: These are links to other pages on your own site. They help users navigate your content and keep them engaged longer. For example, if you’re writing a post about “10 Easy Yoga Poses for Beginners,” you could link to another post about “How to Choose the Right Yoga Mat.” It’s a natural way to guide readers to more helpful information.
    • External Links: These are links to other websites. When you link to reputable sources, it shows Google that your content is well-researched and trustworthy. For instance, if you’re writing about the benefits of meditation, you might link to a study from a respected health organization.
    • Use Descriptive Anchor Text: Anchor text is the clickable part of a link. Instead of using generic phrases like “click here,” be specific. For example, “Check out this guide to creating a meditation routine” is much more informative than “Click here.”

    I’ll admit, I used to overlook internal linking. But once I started adding links to related posts, I noticed readers spending more time on my site—and Google seemed to like it too.

    4. Make Your Content Visually Appealing

    Let’s face it: walls of text are intimidating. Even the most well-written content can lose readers if it’s not visually engaging. Here are a few ways to make your content more inviting:

    • Break Up Text with Headings: Use H2 and H3 tags to organize your content into sections. This makes it easier for readers to scan and find what they’re looking for.
    • Add Images and Videos: A relevant image or video can make your content more engaging and help explain complex ideas. Just make sure to optimize them for SEO by using descriptive file names and alt text.
    • Use Bullet Points and Lists: They’re easier to read and help highlight key points. (See what I did there?)

    5. Keep Your Content Fresh and Updated

    One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was treating my blog posts as “one and done.” But the truth is, content needs regular updates to stay relevant. For example, if you wrote a post about “The Best Smartphones of 2021,” it’s probably outdated by now. Updating it with the latest models and features not only helps your readers but also signals to Google that your content is current.

    6. Add a Personal Touch

    People connect with people, not faceless websites. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your writing. Share personal anecdotes, opinions, or even mistakes you’ve made along the way. For example, if you’re writing about “how to start a podcast,” talk about the time your first episode had terrible audio quality and how you fixed it. It’s these little details that make your content memorable.

    7. Encourage Engagement

    Great content doesn’t just inform—it sparks conversation. End your posts with a question or call-to-action to encourage comments and shares. For example:

    • “What’s your favorite running shoe? Let me know in the comments!”
    • “Did you find this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s just starting out.”

    Engagement not only builds a sense of community but also signals to search engines that your content is valuable.

    Content Is King (But Quality Is Queen)

    Creating standout content isn’t about chasing algorithms or gaming the system. It’s about understanding your audience, solving their problems, and delivering value in a way that’s authentic and engaging. When you focus on creating content that resonates with people, the SEO benefits will follow naturally.

    Some Quick SEO Tips You Can Try:

    When someone searches for something on Google, the first thing they see is a list of results with titles, snippets, and sometimes images or videos. This is your chance to make a great first impression. Think of it like a storefront window—you want it to be inviting, clear, and compelling enough for people to step inside. Here’s how to make your site stand out in search results:

    1. Optimize Titles and Meta Descriptions

    Your title tag and meta description are like the headline and elevator pitch for your page. They’re the first things users see in search results, so they need to grab attention and clearly explain what your page is about.

    Tips for Writing Great Titles:

    • Keep it concise: Aim for 50-60 characters to avoid getting cut off in search results.
    • Include your primary keyword: This helps Google understand what your page is about and makes it more relevant to searchers.
    • Make it compelling: Use action words or questions to spark curiosity. For example, instead of “How to Bake Bread,” try “10 Easy Steps to Bake Perfect Bread at Home.”

    Tips for Writing Meta Descriptions:

    • Summarize the page: In 150-160 characters, explain what users will find on your page.
    • Include a call-to-action: Encourage users to click with phrases like “Learn more,” “Discover how,” or “Get started today.”
    • Add keywords naturally: This helps with relevance, but don’t force it—readability comes first.

    I remember spending hours tweaking the title and meta description for one of my blog posts. At first, I tried to stuff in as many keywords as possible, but it sounded robotic. When I rewrote it to sound more human and engaging, my click-through rate improved significantly. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference.

    2. Optimize Images and Videos

    Visual content is a huge part of what makes your site engaging, but it’s also an opportunity to boost your SEO. Here’s how to make the most of it:

    For Images:

    • Use high-quality visuals: Blurry or pixelated images can make your site look unprofessional.
    • Add descriptive alt text: Alt text helps search engines understand what your image is about. For example, instead of “img123.jpg,” use “chocolate-chip-cookies-fresh-from-the-oven.jpg.”
    • Compress file sizes: Large images can slow down your site, which hurts user experience and SEO. Use tools like TinyPNG or Squoosh to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality.

    For Videos:

    • Embed videos near relevant text: This helps Google understand the context of your video.
    • Use descriptive titles and descriptions: Just like with images, make sure your video titles and descriptions are clear and keyword-rich.
    • Add a transcript: Transcripts make your video content accessible to everyone and give search engines more text to index.

    I once uploaded a tutorial video without adding a title or description. A few weeks later, I realized it wasn’t showing up in search results. After adding a detailed title, description, and transcript, the video started ranking for relevant keywords. It’s a reminder that even small details matter.

    Promoting Your Website

    SEO isn’t just about what happens on your site—it’s also about getting your content in front of the right people. Think of it like throwing a party: you can have the best snacks and music, but if no one knows about it, it won’t be much fun. Here’s how to spread the word:

    1. Social Media

    Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram are great places to share your content and connect with your audience. For example:

    • Share blog posts, videos, or product updates.
    • Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages.
    • Use hashtags to reach a wider audience.

    I’ve found that posting at the right time can make a big difference. For my blog, I noticed that my audience is most active in the evenings, so I started scheduling posts for that time. The result? More clicks and shares.

    2. Community Engagement

    Joining online communities related to your niche can help you build relationships and drive traffic to your site. For example:

    • Participate in forums like Reddit or Quora by answering questions and sharing your expertise.
    • Comment on blogs or YouTube channels in your industry.
    • Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities where your target audience hangs out.

    I once joined a Facebook group for small business owners and shared a blog post I wrote about marketing tips. Not only did it drive traffic to my site, but I also made some valuable connections.

    3. Advertising

    If you’re looking for faster results, consider using paid ads. Platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram Ads allow you to target specific audiences and drive traffic to your site. Start with a small budget and test different ad formats to see what works best.

    4. Word of Mouth

    Never underestimate the power of word of mouth. Encourage satisfied users to share your site with others. For example:

    • Add social sharing buttons to your content.
    • Ask for testimonials or reviews.
    • Offer referral incentives, like discounts or freebies.

    Wrapping Up Your Beginner’s Guide to SEO

    It’s important to remember that SEO isn’t about quick fixes or gaming the system—it’s about creating a website that’s both user-friendly and search-engine-friendly.

    From understanding how Google’s crawlers work to optimizing your titles, images, and content, every step you take is about making your site more accessible and appealing to both visitors and search engines.

    It’s a journey that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn. But the payoff—increased visibility, more traffic, and a stronger online presence—will be well worth the effort.

    As you move forward, focus on the basics: create high-quality content that resonates with your audience, organize your site for clarity and efficiency, and promote your content through social media, community engagement, and other channels. Don’t get bogged down by outdated practices or the pressure to be perfect.

    SEO is an ongoing process, and even small, consistent improvements can lead to big results over time. So, take it one step at a time, stay curious, and enjoy the process of watching your website grow and thrive in the digital world.

  • Why is my website not showing on Google? Here’s the steps that you missed.

    Why is my website not showing on Google? Here’s the steps that you missed.

    “Why is my website not showing on Google?” There’s nothing more frustrating than pouring your heart and soul into crafting an article, only to realize it’s not attracting any traffic.

    You search for your targeted keywords, but your content is nowhere to be found. Often, this happens because your page isn’t indexed by Google.

    And before you panic, know this—getting indexed isn’t rocket science. In most cases, it’s just a matter of making sure Google actually knows your site exists.

    In this guide, I’ll walk you through:

    • Why indexing is the silent killer of new websites
    • How Google actually decides what to index (and what to ignore)
    • Step-by-step fixes—no technical jargon, just straight-up actionable steps
    • Common mistakes that keep sites hidden (and how to avoid them)
    • A few ninja tricks to get indexed faster

    Without indexing, your content is essentially invisible on search engines. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get Google to index your site faster using RankMath, a powerful WordPress SEO plugin.

    Stick around till the end for some bonus tips to enhance your indexing success.

    Understanding Google Indexing

    Why Your Site is Ghosting Google

    Before diving into practical steps, it’s essential to grasp the basic concept of how Google indexing works.

    Imagine throwing a party but forgetting to send out invites. That’s essentially what’s happening if your site isn’t indexed.

    Google doesn’t magically know about every new website. It relies on two key processes:

    1. Discovery (Crawling)

    Google continuously searches for new and updated web pages using robots or spiders known as Google bots. These bots either follow links from known pages or use site maps provided by website owners to discover new content. Once a URL is found, the bot crawls the page to analyze its content and layout.

    Google’s bots (called “spiders”) constantly crawl the web, following links from site to site.

    If you check any of the below:

    • No other sites link to yours
    • You haven’t submitted a sitemap
    • Your site is brand new

    …there’s a good chance Google hasn’t found you yet.

    2. Indexing

    After a page is crawled, Google processes it to understand its purpose, meaning, and context. This includes analyzing the title tag, text content, alt attributes, images, and videos. The page is then sorted and ranked based on different search terms. Our focus here is to ensure your content gets indexed, setting the stage for better ranking.

    Once Google discovers your page, it analyzes:

    • Content quality (Is this actually useful?)
    • Technical setup (Can Google read it properly?)
    • Uniqueness (Is this just copied from somewhere else?)

    If everything checks out, your page gets stored in Google’s index—AKA the database that powers search results.

    No index = No rankings. Simple as that.

    Steps to Get Your Pages Indexed

    Force Google to Notice Your Site

    Step 1: Claim Your Spot in Google Search Console

    Think of Google Search Console (GSC) as your backstage pass to Google’s indexing system.

    1. Go to Google Search Console
    2. Add your site (Choose “URL prefix” for simplicity, or simply deciding whether you will use www. or not)
    3. Verify ownership (The HTML file method is easiest for most)

    This is non-negotiable. Without GSC, you’re flying blind.

    Step 2: Submit a Sitemap (Google’s Roadmap to Your Site)

    A sitemap is like handing Google a neatly organized list of all your important pages.

    A sitemap is a file where you provide information about the pages, videos, and other files on your site, and the relationships between them. Search engines like Google read this file to crawl your site more intelligently.

    For WordPress Users (The Easy Way):

    1. Install Rank Math (or Yoast SEO)
    2. Enable XML sitemaps (usually automatic)
    3. Find your sitemap at yoursite.com/sitemap_index.xml
    4. Paste it into GSC > Sitemaps

    For Other Platforms:

    • Squarespace/Wix: yoursite.com/sitemap.xml (auto-generated)
    • Shopify: Use an app like Smart SEO
    • Custom Sites: Generate one with Screaming Frog

    Step 3: Manually Request Indexing (The Fast Pass)

    Manual request means using the URL Inspection Tool

    For individual pages, you can use the URL Inspection tool in Google Search Console to see if a page is indexed and request indexing if it’s not.

    Found a page that’s still MIA?

    • Open Google Search Console
    • Use the URL Inspection Tool
    • Paste the page URL
    • Click “Request Indexing”

    This is like tapping Google on the shoulder and saying, “Hey, check this out.”

    Step 4: Enable Instant Indexing

    For time-sensitive content, such as news articles or live events, instant indexing can be crucial. RankMath and some SEO plugins offers an Instant Indexing plugin for Google that allows you to send URLs directly to Google’s API.

    1. Go to RankMath > Instant Indexing.
    2. Add new URLs or updated URLs and hit “Send to API.”

    Common Indexing Issues

    Why Google Might Be Ignoring You (And How to Fix It)

    Certain settings and content types can prevent your pages from being indexed:

    Mistake #1: You Accidentally Blocked Google

    Check your robots.txt file and meta tags to ensure they’re not blocking Google’s bots.

    If you have an e-commerce site or use filters, you might accidentally create thousands of duplicate URLs. Use your robots.txt file to block unnecessary pages from being crawled.

    Quick Check:

    • robots.txt (Visit yoursite.com/robots.txt—look for Disallow: /)
    • noindex tags (View page source → search for noindex)

    Another Fix:

    • In WordPress, go to Settings > Reading → Uncheck “Discourage search engines”
    • In Rank Math/Yoast, ensure pages aren’t set to noindex

    Mistake #2: Your Site Has Zero Backlinks

    Google discovers most new sites through links. No links = Harder to get crawled.

    Quick Fixes:

    • Share on social media (even just Twitter helps)
    • Submit to niche directories (like Blogarama for blogs)
    • Comment on relevant forums (with legit, useful responses)

    Mistake #3: Thin or Duplicate Content

    If your site has multiple pages with similar content, Google might struggle to decide which one to index. Fix this by using canonical tags (Rank Math can help with this) or consolidating similar pages.

    Google won’t waste time indexing:

    • Pages under 300 words
    • Copied product descriptions
    • “Coming soon” placeholders

    Solution:

    • Combine weak pages into stronger ones
    • Use canonical tags for similar content
    • Add original insights (even to product pages)

    Tips for Better Indexing

    Internal Linking

    Leverage internal links from indexed pages to new content. This helps search engines discover your new pages faster.

    Got an old post that’s already indexed? Link to your new page from it. Google crawls known pages frequently, so this acts like a bat signal.

    Produce High-Quality Content

    Always create unique, valuable content that directly answers specific queries. This increases the likelihood of your content being deemed worthy of indexing.

    Manage Crawler Traps

    For e-commerce sites, avoid creating too many filter-generated URLs, which can confuse search engines. Use your robots.txt file to block unnecessary pages from being crawled.

    Avoid Overloading Your Site: Too many low-quality or thin pages can slow down indexing. Focus on creating fewer, high-quality pages instead.

    The Social Trigger

    Posting on Twitter/LinkedIn with a link? Google’s crawlers monitor social signals. It’s not a ranking factor, but it can speed up discovery.

    Final Reality Check

    Getting indexed is Step Zero of SEO. If you skip this, nothing else matters.

    Today’s Action Plan:

    1. Sign up for Google Search Console (10 minutes)
    2. Submit your sitemap (5 minutes)
    3. Inspect your top 3 pages (3 minutes)

    That’s it. No fancy tools required—just making sure Google knows you exist.

    Question for you: Have you checked your robots.txt file lately? (Most people haven’t—and it’s costing them traffic.) Drop a comment if you want me to break it down further

    Other WordPress Plugins You Can Use

    While Rank Math is my top recommendation, there are other excellent plugins you can use:

    1. Yoast SEO

    Yoast SEO is another powerhouse plugin that makes sitemap creation easy. Here’s how to use it:

    1. Install and activate Yoast SEO from the WordPress plugin directory.
    2. Go to SEO > General in your dashboard.
    3. Click the Features tab and make sure the XML sitemap toggle is enabled.
    4. Your sitemap will be automatically generated and available at https://yourwebsite.com/sitemap_index.xml.
    5. Submit it to Google Search Console using the same steps as above.

    2. All in One SEO (AIOSEO)

    AIOSEO is another user-friendly option:

    1. Install and activate the plugin.
    2. Go to All in One SEO > Sitemaps in your dashboard.
    3. Enable the sitemap feature if it’s not already on.
    4. Your sitemap will be available at https://yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml.
    5. Submit it to Google Search Console.

    When Using other CMS

    Below is a quick overview on how to generate sitemap for when you’re using other content management systems for your websites:

     Generating and Submitting a Sitemap on Squarespace

    Squarespace also automatically generates a sitemap for your site. Here’s how to access and submit it:

    Step 1: Find Your Sitemap URL

    1. Log in to your Squarespace account and go to your site’s dashboard.
    2. Squarespace automatically generates a sitemap. Your sitemap URL will look like this: https://yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml.

    Step 2: Submit Your Sitemap to Google

    1. Go to Google Search Console.
    2. Select your website property.
    3. Navigate to Sitemaps in the left-hand menu.
    4. Enter sitemap.xml in the field and click Submit.

    Squarespace takes care of updating your sitemap whenever you add or remove pages.

    Generating and Submitting a Sitemap on Wix

    Wix makes it super easy to generate and submit a sitemap—it’s all done automatically! Here’s how to access and submit it:

    Step 1: Find Your Sitemap URL

    1. Log in to your Wix account and go to your site’s dashboard.
    2. Wix automatically generates a sitemap for you. Your sitemap URL will look like this: https://yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml.

    Step 2: Submit Your Sitemap to Google

    1. Go to Google Search Console.
    2. Select your website property.
    3. Navigate to Sitemaps in the left-hand menu.
    4. Enter sitemap.xml in the field and click Submit.

    Wrapping Up

    Why is My Website Not Showing on Google?

    If your website isn’t showing up on Google, it’s likely because it’s not indexed.

    Indexing involves two main phases: discovery and processing of your pages. To ensure your site gets indexed, you should submit your sitemap via Google Search Console using a plugin like RankMath (when using WordPress), utilize the URL Inspection tool for individual pages, and enable instant indexing for time-sensitive content.

    Avoid common pitfalls such as duplicate content and improper use of robots.txt or meta tags and regularly monitor your indexing status and ensure your site’s settings are optimized for search engines.

    Why not take a few minutes today to set up Rank Math, submit your sitemap, and make sure your site is ready to be discovered. Your future visitors (and your traffic stats) will thank you!

    Read more case studies or articles about on-page SEO and technical SEO. You can also check out my available services:

  • SEO Internal Linking Best Practices for Beginners

    SEO Internal Linking Best Practices for Beginners

    Why Internal Linking is Your Secret SEO Weapon

    Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in the SEO world: internal linking. Sure, everyone knows about keywords, backlinks, and meta tags, but internal linking? It’s like the quiet kid in class who ends up being the valedictorian. When done right, internal linking can transform your website’s SEO, improve user experience, and even boost your rankings.

    But here’s the thing—internal linking isn’t just about slapping a few links here and there. It’s about creating a web of relevance that guides both search engines and users through your content. In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about internal linking, from the basics to advanced strategies. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan to make your internal linking strategy work harder for you.

    What is Internal Linking? (And Why Does It Matter?)

    At its core, internal linking is the practice of linking one page on your website to another page on the same website. These links act like pathways, guiding users and search engines through your content. But internal linking isn’t just about navigation—it’s about creating a structure that makes your site easier to crawl, more relevant to search engines, and more engaging for users.

    Example of an Internal Link:

    <a href="https://www.yourwebsite.com/how-to-choose-running-shoes" title="How to Choose the Right Running Shoes">Check out our guide on choosing running shoes</a>

    Why Internal Linking Matters:

    • Improves User Experience: Internal links help users find related content, keeping them engaged and reducing bounce rates.
    • Helps Search Engines Crawl Your Site: Google’s bots use internal links to discover and index your pages. Without them, some pages might never get indexed.
    • Distributes Link Equity: When a high-authority page links to another page on your site, it passes some of its “link juice,” boosting the linked page’s rankings.
    • Increases Page Views and Session Duration: By guiding users to relevant content, internal links encourage them to stay on your site longer.
    • Enhances Thematic Relevance: Search engines better understand your website’s structure and topic relationships.

    The Core Principle: Passing Relevance

    Internal linking isn’t just about linking—it’s about passing relevance. Think of it like a conversation. If you’re talking about coffee makers, you wouldn’t suddenly start discussing car engines, right? The same goes for your internal links. They should guide users and search engines to content that’s contextually relevant and adds value.

    How to Pass Relevance:

    1. Contextual Matching: Ensure the content of the linked article is related to the main topic of the current page. Example: If your main topic is “coffee makers,” link to articles like “types of coffee makers” or “how to clean a coffee maker.”
    2. Semantic Relevance: Use headings and subheadings (H2, H3) that reflect the main concept.
    3. Avoid Irrelevant Links: Linking to unrelated content confuses search engines and users, reducing credibility.
    4. Leverage Anchor Text Wisely: Use meaningful anchor text with relevant keywords to guide both users and search engines.

    Balancing Link Quantity and Quality

    One of the biggest mistakes people make with internal linking is going overboard. Too many links can dilute the relevance and confuse both users and search engines. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

    1. Prioritize Important Links

    Not all links are created equal. Focus on linking to your most important pages first. Example: In an article about “coffee makers,” prioritize links to comprehensive guides like “how to choose a coffee maker.”

    2. Limit Excessive Linking

    While it’s tempting to link to every related article, too many links can overwhelm readers and dilute the SEO benefits. Aim for a manageable number of highly relevant links—somewhere between 5-10 per page, depending on the length of your content.

    Advanced Internal Linking Strategies

    1. Topic Clusters and Pillar Pages

    Topic clusters are groups of related content centered around a main topic (or “pillar page”). Example: A pillar page on “Digital Marketing” could link to cluster pages like “SEO Basics” and “Social Media Marketing.”

    How to Implement:

    1. Identify your main topics (pillar pages).
    2. Create supporting content (cluster pages) that links back to the pillar page.
    3. Use internal links to connect related cluster pages.

    2. Core vs. Outer Sections

    Your website likely has core sections (main content areas) and outer sections (supplementary content). Understanding how to link between these sections can enhance your site’s structure and SEO performance.

    Linking Strategies:

    • Core to Core Linking: Strengthen main content pages.
    • Core to Outer Linking: Occasionally link to supplementary content.
    • Outer to Core Linking: Drive traffic from outer content back to your main pages.

    3. Strategic Placement of Links

    Where you place your links matters. Instead of burying them at the bottom of the page, integrate them naturally into your content.

    Best Practices for Internal Linking

    1. Use Descriptive Anchor Text

    Anchor text is the clickable text that links to another page on your website. Its role is crucial in both guiding users and signaling to search engines about the content they’ll be directed to. Descriptive anchor text should clearly describe what the linked page is about while incorporating relevant keywords. Avoid vague phrases like “click here” or “read more,” as they don’t provide much context or keyword value. Instead, use keyword-rich phrases that are natural and relevant to the target page’s content.

    Example:

    • Instead of linking the phrase “click here for more information,” you could link the phrase: “learn more about effective email marketing strategies.”
    • If linking to a blog post about SEO best practices, use anchor text like “improve your site’s ranking with advanced SEO techniques” instead of just “read more here.”

    This not only improves user experience by making the link’s destination clear but also signals to search engines that the linked page is relevant for those keywords.

    1. Create a Logical Site Structure

    An intuitive site structure ensures that both users and search engines can easily navigate your site and find the most relevant content. The ideal site structure is pyramid-like:

    • Homepage: This is the highest level of the hierarchy and should link out to all major category pages.
    • Category Pages: These pages group similar content together and serve as a middle tier, guiding users deeper into specific topics.
    • Subcategory Pages/Blog Posts: These are the bottom-level pages that dive deeper into specialized subjects, often answering more specific user queries.

    A well-organized structure also makes internal linking much easier. For example, if your homepage links to multiple categories, each category page should link to related subcategories or blog posts, and those blog posts can link back to category pages or other related blog content.

    Example:

    • Homepage → “Digital Marketing” Category Page → “SEO Best Practices” Blog Post → Related articles like “On-Page SEO Tips” or “Link Building Strategies”
    • A well-structured website could have a homepage that links to categories like “Content Marketing,” “SEO,” and “Paid Advertising,” and from each category page, link to various subtopics and blog posts that cover these areas in depth.
    1. Avoid Orphan Pages

    Orphan pages are pages with no internal links pointing to them. If a page is isolated with no links, search engines may have difficulty discovering it, and users won’t be able to easily find it either. Every important page should be integrated into the site’s linking structure, ensuring that it’s accessible to both users and search engines.

    To identify orphan pages, you can use tools like Screaming Frog or Ahrefs, which will crawl your site and flag pages with no internal links pointing to them. These pages can be connected by adding relevant internal links, helping users find them and ensuring that search engines crawl and index them.

    Example:

    • If you have a service page about “PPC Campaign Management” that isn’t linked anywhere else on your site, it’s an orphan page. You could link it from relevant blog posts about “PPC Advertising” or “Paid Search Strategies.”
    • Similarly, if you have a blog post on “Content Marketing Trends in 2025,” make sure it links to the main “Content Marketing” category or other relevant articles on your site.

    Connecting orphan pages not only boosts SEO but also improves the user experience by ensuring every piece of content is discoverable.

    1. Regularly Audit Your Internal Links

    Internal linking requires ongoing attention. Websites evolve – new pages are added, URLs change, or content gets updated. Regular audits are necessary to ensure that all links are functioning correctly and that the internal linking structure remains relevant and efficient. Broken links, redirect loops, and orphan pages can negatively impact both SEO and user experience.

    Use tools like Moz Pro, Sitebulb, or Screaming Frog to regularly check for:

    • Broken Internal Links: Links that lead to non-existent pages, which could create a poor user experience and hurt SEO.
    • Redirect Loops: When a page redirects to another page, which then redirects back to the original page, causing an endless loop that frustrates users and confuses search engines.
    • Orphan Pages: Pages that aren’t linked anywhere else on the site, which might remain hidden from both search engines and users.
    • Poor Anchor Text Usage: Ensure that anchor text is still relevant and descriptive, using appropriate keywords that align with the linked content.

    Example:

    • Regularly run audits to check if any pages that have been deleted still have internal links pointing to them. If you find any, either update the links or redirect them to relevant pages.
    • Ensure that every new blog post links to related posts on your site. For example, if you publish an article on “Email Marketing Trends in 2025,” link to other related blog posts like “The Future of Email Personalization” or “How to Build an Email List in 2025.”

    By staying on top of internal link maintenance, you’ll ensure a smooth, user-friendly experience and avoid any SEO pitfalls. Regular audits will also help you keep your content organized and ensure that your site’s pages remain interlinked in a logical, effective way.

    The Benefits of Effective Internal Linking

    By following internal linking best practices, you’re not just optimizing for search engines, but also ensuring your website delivers a smoother, more engaging experience for visitors. Here’s a deeper dive into the key benefits:

    1. Improved Rankings

    Internal links are a powerful way to distribute link equity (the value that one page passes on to another). When you strategically link to high-priority pages—such as your main service pages or high-converting blog posts—you pass some of the authority from other pages to these important sections. For example, if you have a blog post about “SEO Best Practices” and link it to your primary “SEO Services” page, the internal link can help transfer the page authority to boost its rankings on search engine results pages (SERPs). This helps improve the visibility of critical pages, particularly if they are buried deeper in the site’s hierarchy.

    Example: Imagine you have a blog post on “How to Choose the Right Digital Marketing Agency” that’s performing well. By linking this post to your “About Us” page or “Contact Us” page with specific, keyword-rich anchor text like “Learn more about our expert digital marketing team,” you improve both page visibility and encourage conversions from users who trust your content.

    1. Better User Experience

    Internal links act as roadmaps, guiding users to additional content they might find helpful. This reduces the effort needed to find related material and keeps users on your site longer, thus reducing bounce rates. A well-organized linking structure also allows users to discover more content that aligns with their interests, making it more likely they will engage further. For example, linking related blog posts or articles under a “You may also like” section at the end of your content makes it easier for users to explore more, improving their experience and satisfaction on your site.

    Example: If a user lands on a blog post about “How to Start an E-commerce Business,” providing links to other resources like “E-commerce Platforms Comparison” or “How to Market Your E-commerce Store” makes it easier for the user to dive deeper into the subject matter, offering a more enriched, seamless browsing experience.

    1. Enhanced Crawlability

    Search engines use internal links to crawl and index your pages, helping them understand the structure of your website and which pages are the most important. Well-structured internal linking ensures that search engine bots can easily follow links and discover every page on your site, even those deep within your site hierarchy. A site with broken links or orphan pages may cause search engines to overlook some content, leading to missed opportunities in ranking.

    Example: If you’ve just launched a new product page, linking to it from several key pages (like category pages, homepage, or blog posts related to the product) will help search engine crawlers easily find and index that page. For instance, a “Best Selling Products” page that includes links to the new product page can help search engines discover the page faster and assign it relevance.

    1. Higher Conversions

    Internal linking not only helps users find more content but can also drive them to conversion-focused pages, which is critical for boosting your sales or lead generation. By strategically linking to call-to-action (CTA) pages—such as product pages, service offerings, or lead capture forms—you can guide visitors along their buyer’s journey. When done correctly, internal links serve as nudges that encourage users to take action, like making a purchase or filling out a contact form.

    Example: Suppose you have an informative blog post on “Best Practices for Web Design.” By linking to your service page offering web design services with anchor text like “Get a custom web design tailored to your business needs,” you guide users toward conversion. This internal link not only provides valuable information but also invites users to take the next step toward hiring your services, potentially increasing your conversion rate.

    A well-thought-out internal linking strategy benefits not only your website’s SEO but also enhances user satisfaction, search engine crawlability, and conversion rates. By linking thoughtfully, you ensure that visitors and search engines can easily access your most important pages, creating a more engaging and profitable website.

    Try Linking Smarter Today

    Internal linking might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the most powerful tools in your SEO arsenal. By focusing on relevance, balancing link quantity and quality, and following best practices, you can create a website that’s not only easy to navigate but also ranks higher in search results.

    So, what are you waiting for? Start auditing your internal links today and see the difference it makes. And if you need help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

    Let’s make your website work harder for you!

    Read more case studies or articles about on-page SEO and technical SEO. You can also check out my available services:

  • On-Page SEO Examples: Beginner’s Guide to On-Page SEO

    On-Page SEO Examples: Beginner’s Guide to On-Page SEO

    In this comprehensive guide, we will not only break down the essential concepts of on-page SEO but also provide real-world on page SEO examples to help you understand how these strategies can be applied effectively.

    If you’ve ever wondered why your website isn’t showing up on Google or why your competitors seem to be ranking higher than you, you’re not alone. The truth is, getting your website to rank well on search engines isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. And one of the most important strategies you can implement is On-Page SEO.

    On-Page SEO refers to the set of techniques and practices that can be directly applied to your website’s pages to optimize their ranking potential in search engine results. Essentially, On-Page SEO is all about tweaking the content and the HTML source code of a page so that it is more easily understood and ranked by search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo.

    To put it simply: if your website were a physical store, On-Page SEO would be like organizing your products, putting up clear signs, cleaning the store, and ensuring that visitors can easily navigate to find what they’re looking for. It’s an ongoing optimization effort to make sure your store (webpage) is seen by the right audience (search engine crawlers and visitors).

    Why On-Page SEO Matters

    1. Search Engines Love Structure: Search engines like Google rely on structured, well-organized content to understand what a webpage is about. By optimizing your page’s metadata, content, headers, and other elements, you make it easier for search engines to crawl and index your website.
    2. Better User Experience: When your website’s pages are well-optimized, users can easily navigate through your content, find what they’re looking for, and engage with your site longer. Google uses metrics like Time on Page and Bounce Rate as ranking factors—meaning good On-Page SEO can directly impact how long visitors stay on your site and whether they interact with it more.
    3. Higher Rankings: The ultimate goal of On-Page SEO is to achieve better search engine rankings. Pages that are properly optimized tend to rank higher in search results, which means they will attract more organic traffic.

    How Search Engines Rank Web Pages

    Before jumping into the specifics of On-Page SEO, it’s essential to understand how search engines work. The process involves crawling, indexing, and ranking. When a search engine’s bot crawls a page, it looks at several elements like:

    • Keyword relevance: Does the page’s content match the searcher’s intent?
    • Page structure: Is the content well-organized and easy to read?
    • Meta information: Are title tags, descriptions, and headers optimized?

    Why is On-Page SEO Important?

    On-Page SEO plays a crucial role in improving your rankings because it directly influences both the visibility of your website in search engines and the quality of user experience. Without proper On-Page SEO, even the most technically advanced website might struggle to rank.

    1. Influencing SERP Appearance

    Search engine results pages (SERPs) contain several elements that affect how a page appears, including:

    • Title Tag: The title shown in the SERP (and browser tab). It’s often the first thing a user sees.
    • Meta Description: This provides a brief preview of your content and shows up below your title in search results. It influences whether users click on your page.
    • Rich Snippets: These are enhanced listings that show additional information, like reviews, pricing, or FAQ answers. They can improve click-through rates.

    Optimizing these aspects of your web page will directly impact how users interact with your site in the SERP, encouraging more clicks and driving more traffic.

    2. Impact on User Engagement

    A key focus of On-Page SEO is optimizing the user experience. The longer visitors stay on your site, the higher your page ranks. On-Page SEO can make your content easier to consume by improving:

    • Content Clarity: Make sure your text is easy to read with short paragraphs and proper formatting.
    • Mobile Optimization: Over 50% of global website traffic comes from mobile devices. On-Page SEO makes sure your site is mobile-friendly, which is crucial for maintaining good rankings.
    • Site Navigation: Easy-to-follow navigation allows users to find more relevant content, reducing the likelihood they’ll bounce from your page.

    3. Direct Ranking Factors

    On-Page SEO is one of the primary ranking factors for search engines. While Google uses hundreds of ranking signals, a well-optimized page has a significantly better chance of ranking higher in organic search results. This is because On-Page SEO affects important signals such as:

    • Page Speed: A faster page means a better user experience, which can result in higher rankings.
    • Keyword Relevance: Proper keyword usage shows search engines that your page provides content aligned with what users are searching for.
    • Content Depth: Google favors pages that provide comprehensive, well-researched, and valuable content.

    Key On-Page SEO Factors to Focus On

    When it comes to optimizing your pages for On-Page SEO, there are many different factors to consider. Below, we’ll break down the most important elements you should focus on to ensure your pages are fully optimized and ready for better search rankings.

    1. Keyword Usage

    Keyword usage is one of the most important elements in On-Page SEO. Keywords are the foundation of how search engines understand what your page is about. Effective keyword optimization can make or break your ranking success.

    Best Practices for Keyword Usage:

    • Title Tag: Include your primary keyword early in the title tag to signal its relevance. For example, if your page targets the keyword “best vegan recipes,” your title could be something like, “10 Best Vegan Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners.”
    • Meta Description: Write a compelling, keyword-rich description for your page. Keep it under 160 characters and ensure it accurately reflects the content of the page.
    • URL Slug: Your URL should be simple and descriptive, containing the main keyword. Example: example.com/best-vegan-recipes.
    • Headings (H1, H2, etc.): Your main heading (H1) should include the target keyword and help outline your page’s structure. You can also use related keywords in H2 and H3 subheadings.
    • Content: Aim for natural keyword integration. Avoid overstuffing keywords, which can lead to a negative user experience and potentially harm rankings. Tools like Yoast SEO (if you’re using WordPress) can help you check keyword density and avoid overuse.

    2. Content Quality

    High-quality content is the backbone of your On-Page SEO strategy. This content should answer users’ questions and address their intent while being comprehensive, engaging, and valuable.

    Steps to Ensure High-Quality Content:

    • Research Your Audience: Understand what your target audience is searching for and create content that directly addresses their questions or problems.
    • Focus on Intent: Google aims to deliver the best results for each search query. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand user intent behind a search query and craft your content accordingly. For instance, a search for “how to tie a tie” would likely result in a tutorial or step-by-step guide.
    • Be Comprehensive but Concise: Cover the topic in-depth without overwhelming the reader. This can involve using bullet points, lists, and clear headings to break the content down into digestible sections.
    • Update Content Regularly: Keeping your content up-to-date improves its accuracy and relevance. For example, if you have a blog post on “best smartphones for 2020,” updating it to reflect the current year will improve its performance in search rankings.

    3. Image Optimization

    Images can play a major role in improving the visual appeal and user experience of your page, but they also need to be optimized for SEO.

    Tips for Optimizing Images:

    • Alt Text: Describe your images using alt text, which should include the target keyword or a relevant variant. This helps search engines understand the context of the image.
    • File Size: Large images can slow down your page load time, negatively affecting rankings. Use tools like TinyPNG to compress images without losing quality.
    • File Name: Use descriptive file names that include your target keyword. For example, “vegan-chocolate-cake.jpg” is better than “IMG12345.jpg.”

    4. Internal Linking

    Internal links refer to hyperlinks that point from one page on your website to another. These links help users navigate your site and also help search engines understand the structure of your website.

    Internal Linking Best Practices:

    Link to Relevant Content: Only link to pages that are contextually relevant to the content the user is reading. This improves the user experience and helps search engines recognize your site’s structure.

    Use Descriptive Anchor Text: When linking internally, use descriptive anchor text that gives users an idea of what they can expect when they click on the link.

    Real-Life Example: How On Page SEO Examples Work in Practice

    Let’s walk through a real-life case study of a website applying On-Page SEO principles to improve rankings.

    A travel blog in the Philippines targeted the keyword “How to go to Balabac”, a remote destination that travelers were searching for. Here’s why they ranked well:

    Mobile Optimization: Since many travelers would access the page from their phones while on the go, the page was fully optimized for mobile devices.an help you dominate search results for your target keywords.

    Effective Keyword Usage: The keyword “How to go to Balabac” appeared in their title tag, meta description, URL, and throughout the content, signaling relevance to search engines.

    High-Quality Content: The blog provided a detailed guide on how to reach Balabac, including transportation options, cost estimates, and travel tips. They also included a map and visuals of the area, improving user engagement.

    Tools to Help with On-Page SEO

    There’s no need to optimize On-Page SEO by guesswork. With the help of these popular tools, you can make sure your pages are set up for success:

    1. Semrush’s SEO Content Template: This tool will analyze the top-ranking pages for your target keyword and provide content suggestions.
    2. SEO Plugin: SEO plugins are user-friendly tools for WordPress that will help you optimize your pages with on-the-go recommendations for titles, descriptions, and readability. You can use Rankmath, Yoast, AIOSEO and other SEO plugins that is best compatible with your current, theme and plugins.
    3. Ahrefs: A powerful SEO tool that offers site audits and On-Page SEO recommendations, ensuring that every page on your site is optimized.
    4. Google Search Console: This tool allows you to track how well your pages are performing in search results and spot opportunities for improvement.

    Tips for On-Page SEO Success

    Here are some additional tips to help you get the most out of your On-Page SEO efforts:

    1. Focus on User Experience: Your content should be valuable, easy to read, and helpful to your audience. If visitors enjoy your content, they’re more likely to stay on your site and share it with others.
    2. Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Overusing keywords can make your content seem spammy and reduce its quality. Use keywords naturally and focus on creating great content.
    3. Keep Updating: SEO isn’t a one-time task. Regularly update your content to keep it relevant and accurate. For example, if you wrote a blog post about “best smartphones in 2022,” update it for 2024.
    4. Use Schema Markup: Schema markup is a type of structured data that helps search engines understand your content better. It can improve your chances of appearing in rich snippets, which can boost your click-through rates.

    Implement these today.

    On-Page SEO is the foundation of your website’s visibility in search engines. By using your target keywords effectively, creating high-quality content, and utilizing helpful SEO tools, you can significantly improve your rankings and attract more organic traffic.

    Remember, the ultimate goal of On-Page SEO is to make your content useful and engaging for your visitors. When you focus on providing value, search engines will take notice, and your rankings will improve as a result.

    So, what are you waiting for? Start optimizing your web pages today, and watch your website climb the search engine rankings. And if you ever need help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy optimizing!

    Read more case studies or articles about on-page SEO and technical SEO. You can also check out my available services:

  • Configuring HSTS and Upgrade Insecure Requests in Magento 2 | How to Set Global Redirects for Magento

    Configuring HSTS and Upgrade Insecure Requests in Magento 2 | How to Set Global Redirects for Magento

    The first thing you need when creating a website aside from the choice of CMS and hosting is the SSL which can be simply explained as getting a certificate to show that your website is secured (or more technically, makes your website from http:// to https://).

    This is important because unsecured websites may find it hard to rank and Google and other search engines may show notifications that your website is unsecured which may prevent users on actually going into your website even if they have clicked the link to your content.

    But first you need to decide on whether you’ll use a www. version or a non-www. version because you’ll need it in the future when you set up your console and for this Global redirect setup.

    When you’re done deciding, you can continue setting up your Magento website by following the steps below.

    Click on STORES > Configuration

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    Click on Web (under General) > Base URLs (Secure)

    Upgrade Insecure Requests is a security feature of Magento which means that users cannot access the HTTP version anytime (helps prevent hacking) and is also a great prevention so that Google won’t crawl and index the http:// content in case you have downtime when adding a new SSL.

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    Select Yes from Enable HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS)

    Now when you set this to YES you NEED to note down when the website’s SSL will expire.

    When you set “Enable HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS)” settings to Yes this means that you would always need an SSL for your website to be accessible to users.

    If website loses SSL, then users cannot access it. This is good for SEO too since it basically signals that the Magento website prioritizes secure access, and can prevent http:// requests on your Google Search Console (which can lead to duplicate content when http version is indexed).

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    Select Yes from Upgrade Insecure Requests

    When done, click on Save Config.

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    Global Redirects and configuring HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) and Upgrade Insecure Requests are crucial steps in setting up a Magento 2 ecommerce website for several reasons:

    1. Enhanced Security: Configuring HSTS ensures that your website is accessed only through secure HTTPS connections. This prevents unauthorized access, data breaches, and interception of sensitive information exchanged between the user and the website.
    2. SEO Benefits: Search engines like Google prioritize secure websites over unsecured ones. By implementing HSTS, you signal to search engines that your website prioritizes security, potentially improving your search rankings and visibility.
    3. User Trust: With HSTS enabled, visitors to your website can trust that their data is encrypted and secure. This builds trust and credibility, leading to higher user engagement and conversions.
    4. Prevention of Duplicate Content: Enabling HSTS and Upgrade Insecure Requests helps prevent the indexing of HTTP versions of your website’s pages. This prevents duplicate content issues, which can negatively impact SEO rankings.
    5. Protection Against Hacking: Upgrade Insecure Requests ensures that users cannot access the insecure HTTP version of your website, reducing the risk of hacking and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
  • Yes it’s possible to create Google Ads Account For Free Without Credit Card and Campaign! Here’s How

    Yes it’s possible to create Google Ads Account For Free Without Credit Card and Campaign! Here’s How

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    You’re here because you’ve tried creating a google ads account before but you were overwhelmed with the campaign creation and disheartened that signing up needs a credit card… but truth is you can explore Google Ads without going all through that!

    If you’re a small business or an individual that is looking forward to implementing and learning about Google ads account and you’re trying to see if you can learn to navigate it on your own first before hiring, then here’s the easy step by step guide for you.

    1. Go to Google Ads

    Make sure to go to “ads.google.com” to create your ads accounts.

    Going to google ads to create an account

    2. Click on Start now

    If you’re curious about the whole Google Ads, if you have the budget to run an ads campaign with an expert go with the “Start with an Expert” but for everything else, click on Start now.

    Starting the google ads creation process

    3. Click on “New Google Ads Account“

    If you have existing Google Ads account you may find them above the button. Make sure to click Create a new account shown below:

    Click on "New Google Ads Account"
    Click on "Create A New Account"

    4. The secret to create Google Ads Account For Free Without Credit Card and Campaign.

    You have to click “Skip campaign creation” so you wouldn’t need to set up an ad or put up your credit card to create your google ad account.

    The secret to create Google Ads Account For Free Without Credit Card and Campaign.

    5. Click on Submit

    You can choose to set up a campaign with a guide from a Google Ads expert though your phone but you can always learn to navigate things first by clicking on the No and then clicking “Submit”.

    Clicking on submit to create google account
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    6. Click on Explore your account

    I wrote a few articles that shows how you can use your Google Ads account for keyword research and SEO optimization. Check them out below!

    Yes it's possible to create Google Ads Account For Free Without Credit Card and Campaign! Here's How article's Featured image

    Check out all the other DIY SEO Tips here >>

    Related Reads

    Read more case studies or articles about on-page SEO and technical SEO. You can also check out my available services:

  • Programmatic SEO Case Study: An Example of How to Dominate Your Niche’s Keywords

    Programmatic SEO Case Study: An Example of How to Dominate Your Niche’s Keywords

    Below is the current metrics of the website that I handled a year ago. While I no longer have access to their Google Search Console, here is an overview of what I did for them.

    Screenshot 2024 06 10 at 11.12.12 PM
    This is the current Ahrefs metrics of the website
    Screenshot 2024 06 10 at 11.25.56 PM
    All time performance of the website until June 2024

    Programmatic SEO and UGC can yield tremendous benefits for brands seeking to optimize a business’s online presence. Both strategies rely heavily on high-quality content and engaging visuals.

    I was wrapped in a project that used them in tandem and it was majestic! IT DEFINITELY created momentum and keyword domination and simultaenously developed a more intricate yet personalized narratives around the product.

    The Challenge

    good metrics

    Baseline stats (January 2022) from the first few audits before the optimization

    Baseline organic traffic and crawled pages before programmatic seo

    The social brand started as a blog in Squarespace in 2020 then it added two subdomains (both on a Firebase server and host) to cater to the social platform (mobile app) and a niche-specific database that they put up to help their brand grow. (You can click images to expand)

    The brand was a great programmatic SEO example of a strategic implementation as they were about to bulk create new content and did not get a penalization by the then rolled out, Helpful Content Update by Google (September 2023).

    Their blog and subdomains has decent traffic when it was first crawled for audit (2022) but are not organically ranking for their niche’s important keywords and both subdomains has potential keyword accommodation due to the amount of keyword-rich content produced everyday on their social feed + their niche-related database.

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    The Solution

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    • A website audit showed needed technical and on-page optimizations.
    • Rearchitecture of their pages and subfolders to maximize the use of their user-generated content.
    • A number of quality content after keyword research were created using long-tail keywords to gain traffic and rank them on the first page.
    • Intensive keyword research was also done to rank low-hanging keywords and monopolize ranking for their database content.
    • Framework was created for programmatic content creation for their database.

    The Results

    Screenshot 2024 06 10 at 11.12.12 PM
    This is the current Ahrefs metrics of the website – getting from 13.6K to 1.4 M organic traffic in 2 years!
    end of programmatic seo project

    SEO optimizations, folder restructuring and web migration helped take advantage of their user-generated content to rake in traffic and rank for their niche’s keywords. Currently they get an estimate of a little less than 1M Traffic for the 1 million+ pages that they have.

    Stats from Ahrefs (January 2024)

    Programmatic SEO Case study article's featured image

    Below is the all-time performance of the website up until June 2024, just to compare on its January performance. This is an importance comparison since Google rolled out a Core Update last March and 2 other updates after it, but the website has continued to rise in keywords and pages indexed.

    Screenshot 2024 06 10 at 11.25.56 PM
    All time performance of the website until June 2024

    The programmatic content creation framework continued to create more pages for their database that also continued to help them gain traffic and dominate keywords that they have intended to do for their brand. You can notice from the graph above that there was a great increase in crawled pages from May to August that signals the indexing of their newly created content using the content creation framework.

    You might be wondering.. “so what’s in that framework?“

    While they have a great team of developers and people on the back end to implement content creation at scale, the great backbone of its implementation is having a solid keyword research, a simple content outline and great technical SEO in place. You might even be surprised that one can use a Google sheet to batch create the content!

    Major Takeaways from this Programmatic SEO Case Study


    So the what can we take from this?

    The key to their success lay in the meticulous planning and execution of SEO optimizations, including technical and on-page adjustments, and the innovative use of UGC to bolster content richness and diversity. This synergy between Programmatic SEO and UGC not only facilitated the brand’s growth but also set a new standard for digital marketing strategies aimed at enhancing online visibility and user engagement.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you do the same for my website?

    Every website has a different need and while programmatic SEO can be really helpful, I would still need to do an initial audit of the site to determine if this strategy is what you need.

    You can set up a call/email exchange with me for a free consultation.

    What did you actually do on this project?

    I did the initial audit, monitoring, on page, and technical SEO optimizations before the migration and bulk content creation.

    I was in charge of the keyword research and creation of the content template for bulk content creation. I also created a working demo consisting of a google sheet sample for the database for content. The developers and back end engineers rolled the process out on their own with the Google Sheet’s tables and output as a guide.

    Were you in charge of the web migration?

    No, the developer and back-end engineer were the ones responsible for the migration. If you have migration concerns, do connect with me for further information.

    Check out all the other SEO case studies and Audits here >>

    Related Reads

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  • Configuring Base URL Redirects, and Web Server Rewrites

    Configuring Base URL Redirects, and Web Server Rewrites

    Configuring base URL redirects and web server rewrites in Magento 2 is important for maintaining a clean URL structure, avoiding duplicate content issues, preserving link authority, and improving the performance of your online store.

    Check other Magento SEO Tips here >>

    Click on STORES >> Configuration

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    Go to Web (Under General)

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    Make sure “Add Store Code to URLs” is set to NO.

    This ensures that URLs are descriptive and easy to read and doesn’t contain unneeded characters about your store.

    By setting “Add Store Code to URLs” to NO, you ensure that your store’s URLs are clear, descriptive, and easy to read. This not only enhances the user experience but also makes your website more search engine-friendly.

    Don’t change it when it’s already set to no, then click on the Default Config in the upper left corner.

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    Click on Default Store View >> OK

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    Uncheck the “Use Website” option to change the field then Select Yes

    On the field Auto-redirect to Base URL uncheck Use system value then set it to Yes (301 Moved Permanently) to make sure that link authority is passed whenever there are redirects. While this has been a long debate on whether 302 links still pass authority, 301s are best used.

    Modifying the “Auto-redirect to Base URL” to “Yes (301 Moved Permanently)” is important for maintaining link authority during redirects. This is crucial for search engine optimization (SEO) as it ensures that when a URL is redirected, the link authority is passed correctly, contributing to better search rankings.

    Configuring Base URL Redirects, and Web Server Rewrites Featured image

    Select Yes from “Use Web Server Rewrites” if it’s set to No

    You can see from the image above that the the “Use Web Server Rewrites” is already set to yes. But what does it actually do?

    Web server rewrites can improve the performance of your Magento 2 store by allowing the web server to serve rewritten URLs directly without the need for additional processing. This can result in faster page load times and a better overall user experience.

    This option allows Magento to leverage web server rewrites (e.g., Apache’s mod_rewrite) for handling URLs, resulting in faster page loads and a more efficient user experience.

    When done, make sure to “Save Config”

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    These configurations help create a streamlined and SEO-friendly structure for your Magento 2 store. Clean URLs contribute to a positive user experience, while proper redirection and web server rewrites enhance search engine rankings and overall site performance. It’s essential to make these adjustments to ensure that your online store is both user-friendly and optimized for search engines.

    Check out all the other DIY SEO Tips here >>

    Related Reads

    Read more case studies or articles about on-page SEO and technical SEO. You can also check out my available services: