How to Create Meta Keywords for Better SEO
Meta keywords were once a cornerstone of SEO, but their importance has evolved. While Google no longer uses them as a ranking factor, other search engines and platforms might still consider them. Here’s how to create meta keywords effectively in 2024.
What Are Meta Keywords?
Meta keywords are HTML attributes placed in the <meta> tag of a webpage. They provide search engines with a list of terms relevant to the page’s content.
Why Use Meta Keywords in 2024?
Though Google ignores them, some niche search engines and internal site search tools may still use meta keywords. They can also serve as a quick reference for content focus.
Steps to Create Meta Keywords
1. Identify Relevant Keywords
Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or Ahrefs to find keywords related to your content. Focus on terms with high relevance and low competition.
2. Keep It Concise
Limit meta keywords to 5-10 terms. Avoid stuffing or repeating keywords, as this can harm credibility.
3. Prioritize Relevance
Only include keywords that directly relate to your content. Misleading keywords can lead to poor user experience and penalties.
4. Avoid Duplicates
Each page should have unique meta keywords tailored to its specific content.
Best Practices for Meta Keywords
- Use lowercase letters
- Separate keywords with commas
- Avoid special characters
- Don’t over-optimize
Example of Meta Keywords
<meta name="keywords" content="seo, meta keywords, how to create meta keywords, seo best practices 2024">
Conclusion
While meta keywords aren’t critical for Google SEO, they can still have niche uses. Follow these steps to create them effectively and maintain clean, relevant metadata for your site.