Optimal URL Structures

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Posted by JABacchetta on 24 Apr 2009

Optimal URL Structures

Optimal URL structures are important for two reasons:

1. Better search engine rankings: Although not as important as other factors (such as title tags, and keyword density), URL structures are still relevant in SEO.

2. People are more likely to click on your link: Short URLs get clicked on twice as often as long URLs according to an eyetracking study.

How to optimize URL structure:

Include Keywords: 5 keywords is usually what you’re aiming for. Any more than that, and the value of each word is diluted.
Use Hyphens As Word Separators: Underscores are gaining acceptance, but hyphens are still considered optimal.
Use Static URLs: No ampersands, equals signs, or question marks.
Keep It Simple: Less is more. Try to stick with one or two parameters.

Results:

Poor URL Structure: http://www.bizboink.com/2009/04/24/seo/optimalurlstructureformaximumseobenefit

Optimal URL Structure: http://www.bizboink.com/optimal-url-structures

Optimizing URLs with Wordpress:

If you’re using Wordpress, you can set up an optimal URL structure in under a minute. Go into your control panel, and click on “Permalinks” under “Settings.” Click on “Custom Structure” and then copy and paste /%postname% into the box. Congratulations, you’re all set!