What is anchor text?
Anchor text, also known as a link label or link title is the clickable text in a hyperlink. Seen in blogposts, online articles, or just about any place you find content on the web, anchor text is a word or string of words that when clicked, will take the user to a specific site or page.
Anchor text is an appealing and valuable alternative to using a traditional link beginning with http://..., etc. because it contextually connects written content to a site or page without disrupting the flow of a piece. In contrast, a traditional http:// link can unnecessarily confuse or distract the reader. Anchor text enhances the flow of online content while highlighting or spotlighting keywords or phrases. Well placed anchor text can add SEO value to online content.
Why is strong anchor text important?
Anchor text provides descriptive information about the content of a relevant link. It can also help determine the ranking a page will receive from search engines.
The following scenario shows how anchor text is used by a small business owner:
Jane is an entrepreneur who makes natural bodycare products. She writes a weekly online column addressing skin care issues and remedies. In her blog, she references a list of ingredients to avoid if you suffer from dry skin. Rather than include the entire URL of the links she is referencing, she uses anchor text to direct readers to the relevant sites -- without disrupting the flow of her piece. Readers can choose to click on the anchor text or simply read through the content as one article. Jane has chosen her anchor text carefully using Google's Keyword Tool to identify keywords words, or string of keywords that are widely used and recognized by search engines. In this way, she is maximizing her SEO and crafting a seamless piece of writing at the same time.
The following is a mockup of anchor text used in her blogpost:
Autumn leaves are turning vibrant hues of red, orange and gold. Cool, crisp mornings and warm days lead us into winter and more dramatic weather. While nature's show is beautiful to observe, autumn weather can leave dry skin chapped and sore. Soothing dry skin is the first step in helping it heal and Kiss My Face makes an emolient lotion to soften, soothe and moisturize the skin.