Does Word Count Affect SEO?
What Should Be the Word Count on Web Pages?
Is 1000 Words Too Much?
Are you wondering how much content should be on a web page? Is there a “magic number” for SEO success?
You might have heard that more content leads to better rankings. You might also worry about overwhelming your visitors or stretching your budget for content development.
The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all word count that guarantees high rankings. However, it’s crucial to avoid pages with little to no text.
In this article, we’ll delve deeper into why longer content can enhance SEO and how to effectively develop the content your site needs for increased visibility, traffic, and performance.
Instead of worrying about how much content should be on a web page, try to focus on what truly matters:
Create Engaging Text Content
Your web page content should educate visitors. Spend time on content development, addressing their questions and concerns, and anticipating further inquiries.
Help Google Understand Your Value
Clear, comprehensive web content enables Google to recognize what you offer and why it matters.
Establish Authority
Detailed, high-quality content positions you as an expert in your field, meeting Google’s E-E-A-T requirements and helping build the credibility needed for top rankings.
Ensure Technical SEO is Solid
A well-optimized website is essential for better performance. A Technical SEO Audit is always a good investment.
5 Reasons Higher Word Count (Long Content) Matters
Don’t just take our word for how much content should be on a web page. Here are some compelling statistics demonstrating the value of having longer content on a web page for SEO:
The Average Page Length on Google Is High
The typical article that ranks on the first page of Google contains about 1,447 words. Long-form content consistently performs better because it provides in-depth answers to user queries. Google favors content that thoroughly addresses searchers’ needs.
The Average Page-1 Article on Google Contains 1,447 Words
Long-form content continues to dominate search results and is proof that thin content (a fancy word for content that isn’t long enough) falls short in fully covering the topic. Google likes to rank websites that answer the searcher’s original query and give an in-depth review of the topic.
(Source: Backlinko.com)
Content Length & Ranking Positions
Pages in the top three positions on search results have content that is 45% longer than those ranked 20th. It’s not just about hitting a “magic number” but about producing quality content that exceeds what competitors offer.
(Source: SEMRush)
Unique Search Queries
Approximately 15% of Google search terms are searched for the very first time. By creating detailed content, you can capture traffic from these less common searches, as shorter content may not meet the needs of these queries. These may include long-tail keyword phrases and voice-search keywords.
(Source: Search Engine Land)
User Engagement Metrics Matter
Metrics like time on site and bounce rate are critical ranking factors. SEMrush highlights that engaging content keeps visitors on your site longer, signaling to Google that your content is valuable. Providing informative, detailed answers encourages deeper engagement.
(Source: SEMRush)
Content & Keyword Rankings
Long-form content enables you to rank for a broader range of keywords. The more comprehensive your content, the more keywords you can target, creating a diversified SEO strategy that doesn’t rely on a few high-traffic terms.
(Source: Ahrefs)
How Much Content Should Be on a Web Page?
Before diving into specific numbers, it’s essential to recognize that detailed content establishes your expertise. If you thoroughly cover a topic, Google views you as a credible source, especially if competitors have minimal content on the subject.
We recommend aiming for a minimum of 500 words per page, but many pages exceeding 1,000 words can rank exceptionally well. Regardless of word count, ensure that your SEO content is well-written, focused, and relevant.
Remember, you’re crafting content for your visitors, not just for search engines. Consider these questions about long-form content:
- Are all 1,000+ words informative and useful?
- Would you find the entire 1,000-word article engaging?
- Could the content be split into multiple pages for a more focused experience?
Balancing content quality and word count is crucial for achieving high rankings and converting visitors into customers. As the saying goes:
As a popular saying goes:
“Don’t worry about your word count; Worry about making your words count.”
How to Enhance Your Website Content Without Boring Your Visitors
It’s clear that more content can improve SEO, but what if you’re concerned about overwhelming your audience? Here are creative strategies to add valuable content while keeping it engaging:
- Use Clear Headings – Structure your website with headings to enhance readability and allow for easy skimming.
- Create an FAQ Section – Address common questions related to the topic to educate visitors further.
- Incorporate “How-To” Guides – Provide actionable steps that assist visitors in navigating your content.
- Add Interactive Elements – For visual search SEO use images, videos, and audio clips to make the content more engaging.
- Include Testimonials – Relevant testimonials build trust and provide social proof throughout the content.
- Utilize Call-to-Action Buttons – Encourage visitors to take action through buttons and forms placed throughout the page.
By implementing these strategies, you can enrich your website content while ensuring it remains engaging and informative for your audience.
Additional Content Resources:
If you are still unsure about the purpose of quality content or how to go about creating quality content to maximize your SEO efforts and engage visitors, check out the following resources that our staff and other industry leaders have created:
- 7 Secrets for Creating Evergreen SEO Content
- Quality SEO Content Checklist & Best Practices
- 7 Search Ranking Factors Analyzed (SEOMoz)
- How to Create High-Quality Content (Search Engine Journal)
- 10 Ingredients of Great Content Writing (Neil Patel)
- 10 Benefits of Consistent, High-Quality Content Marketing (Hubspot)
Professional SEO Content Writers
Our SEO Content Consultants and Writers are highly skilled at balancing content length with quality, branding, and engagement. If you are worried about your website’s content and if it is hurting your SEO efforts, contact our team online or call us at 1-888-262-6687. We’d be happy to talk with you and perhaps provide a Content Audit to help direct your efforts.
