Although Google's algorithms are top secret, they are widely accepted as an accurate barometer for gauging the importance of your content on the internet. As a result, many users have turned to dishonest methods of gaming the system in order to improve their rankings. However more often than not, these "black-hat" tactics do not work. As Google's Matt Cutts tells us, time and time again, the only SEO method that works is creating quality content that is useful to your reader. Below are five methods for writing content that ranks:

1. Include Keywords

It is no secret that including keywords within your content is one of the best ways to improve your SEO. However, while keyword use is important, it is also something that can be easily overdone. To check your keyword density (or balance), try reading the text out loud. If your copy is so full of keywords that it doesn't read in a natural way, you will want to rewrite it to avoid penalties for using too many keywords.

2. Use Meta Keywords and Descriptions

While arguably not as important as they once were, both meta keywords descriptions still provide value when optimizing your site. Utilizing keywords within meta descriptions improves your page's ranking within search engines while simultaneously allowing readers to quickly understand the content's topic. It should also be noted that many social sharing sites, such as Facebook, automatically use your meta description in link previews.

3. Create Custom Page Titles and URLs

In a similar fashion to the way in which you implement keywords in meta descriptions, doing so in page titles and URLs will also have a positive impact on your SEO. When your page titles and URLs accurate reflect the page's topic or focus, search engine crawlers can more effectively gauge your page's relevance. Conversely, an irrelevant or misleading URL has a negative impact. 

4. Include Heading Tags

Heading tags are used to represent different sections of web page content, and can impact both the SEO and usability of your site. Every page should have a keyword rich headline (H1) that reflects the purpose of the page. From thereon, every subtopic heading should use a lesser heading tag (ranging from H2-H6). This not only tells the search engine crawlers what information is most important on your page, but it should also help to convey that information to your viewers, as well.

5. Create Quality Content

While search engines consider the techniques above, the most important factor in determining the quality of your content is its relevance. Content that is well written and informative will prompt other sites to link to your page, increasing your site's traffic and relevance over time. If you feel that your writing skills are not sufficient to create the quality of content that you need, you may want to consider hiring a professional copywriter.

While these tips are designed to help you optimize your on-site content on your own, there are many other organic and paid SEO tactics that 360 PSG can utilize to improve your search engine rankings. Contact an Account Manager at 360psg.com to learn more.