What Are Header Tags and How to Use Them Correctly?

Feb 13

Header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) help structure your content, making it easier for both Google and your visitors to understand what your page is about. When used correctly, they improve readability, boost SEO, and guide users seamlessly through your page.

What Are Header Tags?

Think of headers like chapter titles in a book. They break up content into sections, making it easy to scan and read. Here’s how they work:

H1: The main topic of the page (should only be used once).
H2: Major sections that support the H1.
H3-H6: Subsections that further break down the content under H2s.
P/B: This is your “paragraph” or “body text.” Basically normal text.

Best Practices for Header Tags

✅ Only one H1 per page – It should clearly state the main topic.
✅ Use H2s to structure content – Think of them as section headers.
✅ H3s and beyond – Use them when needed to break down H2 sections further.
✅ Include keywords naturally – This helps Google understand your content better.
✅ Make headers engaging – They should encourage readers to keep scrolling and let’s them quickly know what a section is about quickly.

Simple Example

H1: Atlanta Cars For Sale
H2: Honda
H3: Accord
H3: Civic
H2: Ford
H3: Focus
H3: Fusion

Great Client Example:

A well-structured page helps both SEO and user experience, and my past client/friend Lois nails it with her headers. Let’s break them down:

H1: San Antonio Wedding Photographer Blending A Modern Look With A Nostalgic Feel

Perfect H1! It tells searchers exactly what she does while making it unique and engaging.

H2s That Guide the Reader:

Meet Lois, Your Fine-Art Wedding Photographer → Personal introduction that builds trust.
San Antonio Wedding Photographer Resources → Helpful info for engaged couples.
The Wedding Experience → Explains what clients can expect.
What Customers Are Saying: → Social proof builds credibility.
Experience the Lois M Photography Difference → Highlights what makes her stand out.
Ready to Begin the Adventure? → A compelling call to action.
Other Locations Served → Helps with local SEO.
Resources → Additional helpful content.
Navigation → Keeps the page easy to explore.

Why This Works:

🔹 Clear, logical flow → Visitors can quickly find what they need.
🔹 SEO-friendly → Keywords are naturally placed in relevant headers and not just spammed in there.
🔹 Engaging & human → It’s not just about SEO and it connects with readers!

Final Thoughts

Header tags aren’t just for SEO—they improve user experience, keep people engaged, and make your content easy to read. If you want your website to be both search-friendly and user-friendly.

Cody McCracken