A meta title (also called a title tag) is an HTML element that defines the title of a webpage for search engines and users. It appears as the clickable headline in search engine results pages (SERPs), in browser tabs, and when a page is shared on some platforms.
The meta title is one of the most important on-page SEO factors because it helps search engines like Google understand what a page is about while also influencing whether users click on your result.
How a Meta Title Works
When a search engine crawls a page, it reads the meta title to determine the page’s topic and relevance to search queries. The title is then displayed (or sometimes rewritten) in the search results.
A well-written meta title:
- Signals keyword relevance
- Improves click-through rate (CTR)
- Sets clear expectations for users
- Supports overall page rankings
Why Meta Titles Matter for SEO
Meta titles play a critical role in SEO because they:
- Are a direct ranking factor
- Influence user behavior in SERPs
- Help differentiate your page from competitors
- Reinforce topical relevance
- Improve visibility for target keywords
Even if your page ranks well, a weak meta title can significantly reduce traffic.
Best Practices for Writing Meta Titles
- Keep titles between 50–60 characters
- Place the primary keyword near the beginning
- Write for humans, not just search engines
- Avoid keyword stuffing
- Make each title unique
- Use branding wisely (usually at the end)
Example:
Meta Title Best Practices: How to Write SEO-Friendly Title Tags
Meta Title vs. Meta Description
- Meta Title: The main clickable headline in search results
- Meta Description: The supporting summary beneath the title
Both work together to improve visibility and CTR, but the meta title carries more SEO weight.
Common Meta Title Mistakes
- Titles that are too long and get truncated
- Duplicate titles across multiple pages
- Keyword stuffing
- Generic titles like “Home” or “Services”
- Ignoring search intent
Examples of Effective Meta Titles
- What Is a Meta Title? SEO Meaning & Best Practices
- Meta Title Optimization: How to Improve Rankings and CTR
- Meta Title Examples: Writing Title Tags That Rank
FAQs About Meta Titles
Is a meta title the same as an H1 heading?
No. The meta title is for search engines and browsers, while the H1 is an on-page heading for users.
Can Google rewrite my meta title?
Yes. Google may rewrite titles if they are misleading, too long, or poorly optimized.
How long should a meta title be?
Ideally between 50–60 characters to avoid truncation.
Should every page have a unique meta title?
Yes. Unique titles help search engines understand each page’s purpose.
Does a meta title affect rankings?
Yes. It’s one of the most important on-page SEO elements.