Heading (Heading tags / H1-H6) is a six-level heading tag used in HTML to structure a page’s content hierarchy.
Hierarchy:
- H1: The main heading of the page; there should be only one per page.
- H2: Main section headings.
- H3: Subsection headings under H2.
- H4-H6: Deeper subheadings (rarely needed).
The importance of headings in SEO:
- They communicate the content structure to search engines
- They increase the chances of being selected for a featured snippet
- They provide screen reader navigation for accessibility
- They strengthen the context of keywords
Common mistakes: using multiple H1s, skipping the hierarchy (using H3 when there is no H2), and using headings purely for visual style (CSS should be used for font size instead of H tags).
Tip: Create the heading tree (outline) first when planning your content. This structure organizes your writing process and provides a more scannable experience for the reader.