What is SEO? In Plain English
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. Here's what it means, why it matters, and how it works.
In Plain English
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. It is the process of making changes to your website so that it appears higher in search engine results, such as Google. The aim is to attract more visitors without paying for ads.
Think of it like a shop on a busy high street. If your shop window is clear, your signs are easy to read, and people can find you quickly, you’ll get more customers. SEO does the same for your website.
What Does SEO Involve?
SEO has three main areas:
- On-page SEO: Everything you do on your website, such as writing useful content, choosing the right keywords, and making pages easy to read.
- Technical SEO: Behind-the-scenes improvements like fast loading speed, mobile friendliness, and clean site structure.
- Off-page SEO: Signals from outside your website, such as other websites linking to you, or people mentioning your brand online.
Why SEO Matters
Most people click on results on the first page of Google. If your website is buried on page three, it may never be seen. SEO helps your site appear where your audience is looking. Unlike paid ads, which stop working when you stop paying, SEO builds long-term visibility.
FAQs
Q: What does SEO stand for?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation.
Q: Is SEO the same as Google Ads?
No. SEO is about improving your site to get free, organic traffic. Google Ads are paid placements.
Q: How long does SEO take?
SEO is not instant. Most sites see improvements in a few months, with steady growth over time.