An H1 tag is the main heading of a webpage that tells search engines and users what the page is about. It is an important on-page SEO factor that sets the context for the content and improves readability.
Quick Overview of H1 Tag in SEO
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | The main heading of a webpage, marked with <h1> HTML tag. |
| Purpose | Define the primary topic of the page for users and search engines. |
| Key Elements | One H1 per page, include main keyword, keep it clear and descriptive. |
| Tools | Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, Yoast SEO, Rank Math. |
| Benefit | Improves SEO relevance and user experience. |
How H1 Tag Works (With Example)
An H1 tag works by signaling the primary topic of a webpage. Think of it like the title of a book chapter — it tells readers what to expect inside.
For example, if you’re writing a page about “What is Keyword Research in SEO?”, your H1 could be:
What is Keyword Research in SEO? (Beginner’s Guide 2025)
This is effective because it:
- Clearly defines the topic.
- Includes the main keyword (“Keyword Research in SEO”).
- Adds context (“Beginner’s Guide 2025”).
If a page has no H1 tag, search engines may struggle to understand the main focus. If it has multiple H1 tags, it can cause confusion. The best practice is one clear H1 tag per page, supported by H2, H3 subheadings for structure.
FAQs on H1 Tag in SEO
Q1. How many H1 tags should a page have?
Ideally, one. Having multiple H1s may dilute SEO signals and confuse crawlers.
Q2. What’s the difference between a Title Tag and an H1 Tag?
The title tag is shown in search results, while the H1 tag is shown on the webpage as the main heading.
Q3. Should I include keywords in the H1 tag?
Yes. Adding the target keyword naturally in the H1 helps search engines and improves relevance.