How to Use H1 and H2 Tags: Actionable SEO Tips for Better Rankings

When it comes to search engine optimization (SEO), most people obsess over the big stuff—backlinks, content length, page speed. But here’s the kicker: sometimes it’s the small, easy-to-miss things that make the biggest difference. Enter H1 and H2 tags. These bad boys don’t just make your content look pretty; they tell search engines exactly what’s going on with your web page. Today, we’re diving into how to use H1 and H2 tags to boost your rankings and make your content a breeze for both readers and Google to navigate.

---

What is an H1 Tag?

Alright, let’s keep this simple. An H1 tag is basically your web page’s headline—like the title on the front cover of a book. It’s an HTML tag that screams, “Hey, this is what the page is all about!” Both readers and search engines pay attention to it, which makes it a heavy hitter in the SEO world

Key Points About H1 Tags:

• Why the H1 Tag Is Important: The H1 tag isn’t just for show. It’s a ranking factor that helps search engines understand the main topic of your page. Nail it, and you’re already ahead of the game.
• How It Works in HTML: You’ve got your opening H1 tag () and your closing H1 tag (). Everything sandwiched in between should clearly shout what your content is about.
• Accessibility Bonus: H1 tags aren’t just for SEO nerds. They help improve accessibility, making it easier for screen readers to guide visually impaired users through your site.
• Using H1 Tags in WordPress: If you’re rocking WordPress or another content management system (CMS), heads up—it might auto-assign H1 tags to titles. Double-check your setup to make sure you’re not accidentally using multiple H1 tags.
• One H1 Tag Per Page, Please: While HTML5 is cool with multiple H1 tags in specific cases, best practice is to stick with one. It keeps things clean and avoids confusing search engines.

---

1. Make Your H1 Count—But Use It Only Once

Your H1 tag is the main event. It tells readers (and search engines) what your web page is about. But—and this is key—you only get one H1 tag per page. Make it pop.

Actionable Moves:

• Use Your Primary Keyword: Your H1 should naturally include your main keyword or even a long tail keyword. For this article, it’s “How to Use H1 and H2 Tags.” Easy, right? But don’t overthink it—make sure it still reads like a human wrote it.
• Keep It Snappy and Engaging: Think of your H1 as both an SEO tool and your content’s first impression. It should make people want to keep reading.
• Avoid Multiple H1 headings: Doubling up on H1 tags can confuse search engines and dilute your content’s focus. Keep it to one.
• Watch Out in WordPress: Content management systems like WordPress might sneak in extra H1 tags if you’re not careful. Always peek under the hood (aka your HTML tags).
• Mind the Tags: Don’t forget to properly close your H1 tag. Leaving it open is like forgetting to lock your front door—it just causes problems.

---

2. Use H2 Tags to Break Down Content (and Rank for Secondary Keywords)

If the H1 is your headline, H2 and H3 tags are your subheadings—they’re the chapters of your content. They help break things up for readers and give you extra chances to sprinkle in those sweet, sweet secondary keywords

Actionable Moves:

• Slide in Secondary Keywords: Use H2 tags to naturally work in related keywords. For example, we might target “optimizing header tags” or “SEO benefits of H2 tags” here.
• Ask and Answer Questions: Frame your H2s as questions your audience is Googling. This can help you snag those featured snippets.
• Use H3 for Subsections: Need to dive deeper under an H2? That’s what H3 tags are for. Keep the hierarchy neat and tidy.
• Make It Easy to Skim: Clear, concise H2s make it easy for readers to skim—and let’s be honest, most people are skimming.

---

3. Keep Your Header Hierarchy Clean

Google reads your site like a table of contents—H1 at the top, followed by H2s, H3s, and so on. A clear structure helps search engines understand your content’s flow and makes it easier for readers to follow.

Actionable Moves:

• One H1, Always: Resist the urge to toss in extra H1 tags, even if your CMS makes it easy. One H1 per page keeps things clear.
• Follow the Flow: Start with your H1, then H2s for main sections, H3s for sub-sections, and even H4, H5, and H6 tags if you’re feeling fancy. Don’t skip levels.
• Stay Consistent: Keep your header structure consistent across your site. It’s good for SEO and user experience.
• Accessibility Wins: Using proper headers isn’t just for rankings—it helps screen readers navigate your content, making your site more inclusive.

---

4. Optimize for Featured Snippets

Want that prime “Position Zero” spot on Google? Your H2 tags are your secret weapon. Google loves well-structured content, and your headers can help you get there.

Actionable Moves:

• Frame H2s as Questions: Think about what your audience is asking. For example, “How to Use H1 and H2 Tags for SEO” is a question someone might type into Google.
• Use Bullet Points and Lists: Google eats up bullet points and numbered lists for snippets. Serve them up under your H2s.
• Be Concise: Keep your answers short and sweet—40-50 words is the sweet spot for featured snippets.

---

5. Avoid Common Mistakes

Even the pros mess up header tags sometimes. Here’s what to watch out for.

Common Pitfalls:

• Boring, Generic Headers: “Introduction” and “Conclusion” aren’t doing you any favors. Be specific.
• Keyword Stuffing: Jamming keywords into every header doesn’t help—it just looks spammy.
• Skipping Header Levels: Don’t jump from an H1 to an H3. Keep your structure logical.
• HTML Mistakes: Make sure your tags are properly coded. Sloppy HTML can confuse search engines and content management systems.

---

Conclusion:
Learning how to use H1 and H2 tags isn’t rocket science, but it’s one of the easiest ways to level up your on-page SEO. Optimized header tags help search engines understand your content and make your site more user-friendly. Plus, it’s just good writing. Get your headers right, and you’ll climb those rankings in no time.

---

Final Tip:
Want to double-check your header game? Use tools like Google’s SEO Starter Guide, SEMrush, or Screaming Frog to audit your pages. And if you’re looking for pros who live and breathe SEO, especially in the wedding industry, look no further than Custom House Creatives. We’re not just experts—we’re creatives, helping wedding professionals dominate search rankings and stand out in a crowded market. And remember—keep it natural, keep it organized, and let your content shine.