On-Page SEO

Use Proper Heading Hierarchy (H1-H6) — Step-by-Step Guide

One H1 per page with primary keyword. Use H2/H3 for sections. Format H2s as questions for AI citation and featured snippets.

Easy High Impact 30 min per page Online Local Hybrid
Pro Tip

Format your H2s as questions that match "People Also Ask" boxes. This doubles your optimization — it targets featured snippets AND makes your content more citable by AI systems that pattern-match questions to user prompts.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Audit current heading structure with browser dev tools

Install the HeadingsMap Chrome extension or use the SEO Meta in 1 Click extension. It shows the full heading hierarchy of any page at a glance. Look for: missing H1, multiple H1s, skipped levels (H1 then H3), and non-descriptive headings.

2

Ensure exactly one H1 per page

The H1 should contain your primary keyword and clearly describe the page content. In WordPress: the post/page title automatically becomes the H1 in most themes. Don't add another H1 in the content body.

3

Restructure H2s to match search queries where possible

Search your keyword in Google and note the "People Also Ask" questions. Rewrite your H2s to match these questions. Example: Instead of "SEO Benefits", use "What Are the Benefits of SEO?" This targets featured snippets and AI citations.

4

Use H3s for detailed sub-sections

H3s break down the topic under each H2. They should be more specific than the H2. Example: H2 "How to Do Keyword Research" > H3 "Step 1: Brainstorm Seed Keywords" > H3 "Step 2: Use a Keyword Tool to Expand".

5

Verify heading hierarchy is sequential (no H1 to H3 skips)

Heading levels should nest logically: H1 > H2 > H3 > H4. Never skip from H1 to H3 or H2 to H4. This helps screen readers, search engines, and AI systems understand your content structure. Run Screaming Frog and check the "H1" and "H2" columns.

Video Tutorial

AI Prompt

Restructure the heading hierarchy for my page about "[TOPIC]".

Current content outline:
[PASTE YOUR CURRENT HEADINGS OR CONTENT SECTIONS]

Target keyword: [KEYWORD]
Related keywords to incorporate: [LIST]

Generate an optimized heading structure with:
1. One H1 containing the primary keyword
2. H2s that either:
   - Match "People Also Ask" questions (e.g., "What is [topic]?")
   - Use clear, descriptive section titles with semantic keywords
3. H3s for subsections under each H2
4. Ensure logical content flow from general to specific
5. Include at least 2 question-format H2s for AI citation optimization

Tools & Resources

HeadingsMap (Chrome Extension)SEO Meta in 1 Click

Learn More

Header Tags for SEO — AhrefsarticleHeading Tags Guide — Conductorarticle

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