Meta Description
A meta description is a brief summary of a webpage's content, typically around 150-160 characters, that appears under the page title in search engine results.
Description
In the SEO industry, a meta description serves as a short snippet that describes the content of a webpage. It is embedded within the HTML code of a webpage and provides search engines and users with a concise overview of what the page is about. While meta descriptions do not directly impact search engine rankings, they play a crucial role in influencing click-through rates from search engine results pages (SERPs). A well-crafted meta description can entice users to click on a link by clearly conveying the value and relevance of the content. It should be compelling, include relevant keywords, and accurately reflect the content of the page. Crafting effective meta descriptions requires balancing the need for brevity with the necessity of being informative and engaging.
Examples
- A blog post about healthy eating might have a meta description like: 'Discover the top 10 superfoods that can boost your health and energy levels. Learn easy recipes and tips for incorporating them into your diet.' This description highlights the main topic and what the reader will gain by clicking.
- An online store selling handmade jewelry could use a meta description such as: 'Explore our collection of handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Unique designs made with love and care. Shop now for free shipping on orders over $50.' This description emphasizes key selling points and encourages immediate action.
Additional Information
- Meta descriptions should be unique for each page to avoid duplicate content issues.
- Although they do not directly affect search rankings, meta descriptions can significantly impact user engagement and click-through rates.