What is Anchor Text: 3 Simple Hacks to Dominate Search Results
What is anchor text? It’s the clickable text in a hyperlink that tells users and search engines what the linked page is about. For example, if you link to a blog about SEO tools using the words “best SEO tools,” that’s your anchor text. It’s like a signpost guiding both readers and Google to relevant content.
Table of Contents
1. What is Anchor Text and its Matter for SEO?
Anchor text helps search engines understand the context of the linked page. If your anchor text is clear and relevant, Google rewards you with better rankings. But using generic phrases like “click here” wastes this opportunity. Instead, use descriptive keywords that match the content you’re linking to.
2. 3 Simple Hacks to Optimize Anchor Text:
1. Keep It Natural and Relevant
What is anchor text’s golden rule? Make it sound human. For instance:
- ✅ “Learn how to bake sourdough bread [step-by-step guide].”
- ❌ “Learn how to bake sourdough bread [click here].”
Match the anchor text to the content it’s linking to. If you’re linking to a case study, use phrases like “see our results” or “case study example.”
2. Mix Up Your Anchor Text Types
Don’t repeat the same keyword every time. Use a variety of anchor text types:
- Exact match: “SEO services” (use sparingly).
- Partial match: “affordable SEO services.”
- Branded: “Guestapost Blog.”
- Naked URLs: “https://guestapost.com.”
This diversity keeps your links looking natural to search engines.
3. Audit and Fix Over-Optimized Links
Too many exact-match anchor texts (e.g., “best SEO tools”) can trigger Google penalties. Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to check your anchor text profile. If over 20% of your links are exact matches, replace some with branded or generic terms.
3. What is Anchor Text Missing in Most Strategies?
Many bloggers focus only on their anchor text, ignoring inbound links. For example, if other sites link to you using spammy keywords like “cheap shoes,” it can hurt your SEO. Use tools like Google Search Console to monitor backlinks and disavow toxic ones.
4. Real-Life Anchor Text Examples:
- A travel blog linking to a hotel review: “Check out this luxury Bali resort.”
- An e-commerce site linking to a product page: “Shop organic skincare products.”
- A SaaS company linking to a pricing page: “Compare our plans here.”
5. Avoid These Anchor Text Mistakes:
- Keyword stuffing: “best SEO tools, SEO tools, tools for SEO.”
- Overusing exact match: Looks robotic and risks penalties.
- Ignoring mobile users: Ensure anchor text is easy to tap on phones.
Need help mastering anchor text and SEO? Guestapost.com offers expert content and link-building services to optimize your strategy and boost rankings, let us turn your links into traffic magnets.
Note: SEO best practices evolve—always prioritize user experience over shortcuts!