H1

What is the H1 tag?

The H1 is the main heading of a web page and sits in the HTML between the <h1> and </h1> tags. It tells visitors and search engines what the page is about. You usually use one H1 per page, much like the title of an article, although HTML technically allows several H1s.

Why is the H1 important?

• Clarity: visitors see right away whether they are on the right page.
• Context for search engines: the H1 helps Google understand the topic.
• Accessibility: screen readers use headings to navigate a page.

Examples of the H1

• <h1>Web design for small businesses</h1> on a service page.
• “Women’s running shoes” as the H1 of a category page in an online store.
• A blog post whose H1 differs slightly from its SEO title.

How do you use the H1?

Give each page a clear H1 that names the topic and naturally includes the main keyword. The H1 may differ from the title in search results, but it should match it. See also on-page SEO.