Understanding Anchor Text: The Key to Effective Linking and SEO
Anchor text is a critical component of website linking and search engine optimization (SEO). The anchor text refers to the clickable text within a hyperlink and plays an important role in determining the relevance and ranking of web pages. In this article, we will explore the definition and functionality of anchor text, its importance for SEO and best practices for using it effectively.
Anchor text definition and functionality
Anchor text, also known as link text, is the visible and clickable text in a hyperlink. It usually appears in blue and underlined, although the color and style of the underline can be modified using HTML code. The purpose of an anchor text is to provide context and indicate the content or topic of the linked page. When users click on the anchor text, it directs them to another web page or provides them with additional information related to the highlighted word.
How anchor text works
The anchor text is embedded in the HTML code of a web page, while the destination address to which it refers remains invisible to the user. It is crucial that the anchor text description accurately represents what the linked page offers. For example, if the anchor text says “Screenshot,” but leads to a different page than expected, it can create a disconnect between the user’s expectations and the actual content.
Relevance for SEO
Anchor texts contribute significantly to the evaluation of inbound links by search engines. Search engine algorithms analyze anchor text to determine the subject or theme of a web page. Using relevant anchor texts that align with the content and keywords of the linked page is essential for SEO success. For example, using descriptive anchor text such as “What are anchor texts?” is more valuable than generic phrases such as “click here”.
Anchor Text Variation
When websites vigorously build links with an exact match anchor text, a Google spam filter is triggered. It is unnatural for all web pages linking to your website to have exact match anchor text. Some variation in anchor text is natural, just as a large portion of links on the Internet are plain URLs.
Different types of anchor text
Exact match anchor text: This type of text contains the same keywords as the target keyword of a web page. For example, an exact match anchor text for the keyword “anchor text” would link to a page above the anchor text.
Anchor text variation: Natural variation of anchor text is crucial to avoid triggering Google spam filters. A mix of anchor text variations, including plain URLs (URL anchor texts), improves the organic appearance of inbound links.
Targeted anchor text: SEO professionals often control the anchor text used in inbound links from other websites. Targeted anchor text ensures that the linked keywords match the target keyword of the page being optimized.
Best practices for using anchor text:
Relevance and descriptiveness: Choose anchor text that accurately reflects the content of the linked page.
Avoid generic phrases: Instead of using phrases such as “click here”, create descriptive anchor text that informs users about the linked content.
Natural anchor text distribution: Look for a diverse mix of anchor text types and keywords to maintain a natural look and feel and avoid search engine penalties.
Quality and contextualized links: Focus on obtaining inbound links from high quality websites with thematic relevance to your content.
User experience: Prioritize user experience by ensuring that anchor texts provide clear expectations about the linked content.
Natural Anchor Text vs. Unnatural Anchor Text
When web surfers link to your website, it is inevitable that you will get incorrect anchor text that does not help identify the subject of your web page. However, like plain URLs, these are natural occurrences and are not frowned upon by search engines. On the other hand, a lack of plain URLs, excessive use of anchor text and/or a high number of one-way and directed anchor text links are signs of unnatural anchor text distribution. Search engines such as Google can penalize websites that focus on manipulating anchor text when the user experience is compromised.
To get natural anchor text links to your website, create good content and the links and anchor text will come naturally.
Anchor text is a crucial aspect of website linking and SEO. By using relevant and descriptive anchor text, webmasters can improve the visibility and ranking of their web pages. Remember to prioritize the user experience, maintain a natural anchor text distribution and get inbound links from trusted sources. With effective anchor text strategies, you can improve your website’s visibility, attract organic traffic and provide a better experience for both users and search engines.