SEO Tycoon

**Moldarin** · 05-01-2006, 09:28 AM

Hi,

Since both Alexa and A9 is now powered by Windows Live Search which actually shows the meta description in the results... I thought I had to update my meta description a little.

But how to do I write a meta description that will describe my content and work well in search engines?

http://thewebdesignjournal.com/

I have to write one description per page I guess...

Any tips? Suggestions?

**chrishirst** · 12:14 PM

Actually ALL the search engines have been doing this for a very long time.

Write one that describes the page it is on, make it 1 maybe 2 sentences long. Include the primary keywords/phrase for the page, BUT make sure it reads well and is a proper sentence NOT just something thrown together for the sake of it.

Think of it as your first chance to make a good impression.

**crush123** · 05-09-2006, 04:38 PM

usually search engines like google, msn displays upto some 150-160 characters of what is present in your description meta tag ( if it is relevant ).
but yahoo displays more characters.
as replied by chrishirst, you may include a few of your best keywords and make it into two or three good sentences to impress the searchers.

**Moldarin** · 05-22-2006, 09:35 PM

It dos not matter anymore.

Windows Live Seach now uses Open Directory Project descriptions...

http://blogs.msdn.com/msnsearch/arch...22/603917.aspx

**Tarp Guy** · 02-27-2010, 10:52 PM

Absolutely agree with chrishirst - a Meta description has got to read well. Write it for the human visitor, but keep SEO in mind. If your title tag is like the title of a book that catches your eye, the meta description would be like the short summary that intrigues someone to open the cover and discover more. With such a short space, it can take some time to craft them.

I use this free tool --> http://www.design215.com/toolbox/character_count.php to count characters as I type and find it really helpful -- a lot easier than writing something and then checking character count in Word.

**Christoph** · 02-28-2010, 07:46 AM

Most search engines can read around 160 chars in your meta description, so try to avoid going over that as the rest will most likely not be readable.

As Chrishirst said, your priority is to create a good impression. Many people click on a site from a search engine based on the meta description and not just because its in the number 1 spot.

With that in mind, try to think of what would make people more likely to want to see your site rather than the one above or below. At the same time be honest and professional to maintain your reputation.

If you include a keyword into the description, all the better. This may have a slightly more positive effect on your rankings. Dont go mad with this, your first priority is for it to welcome interest.

Good Luck!

**chrishirst** · 02-28-2010, 08:03 AM

Now usually I would delete the above posts as "necro posting" but because they ~~agree with me~~ ermm sorry ermm add something to the thread

they're staying.

Thus proving; as some already believe, I am an empire building despot!

**Christoph** · 02-28-2010, 08:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Christoph

Most search engines can read around 160 chars in your meta description, so try to avoid going over that as the rest will most likely not be readable.

Didnt see that mentioned anywhere!

**chrishirst** · 02-28-2010, 08:54 AM

Well it isn't 'cos it doesn't really matter!

ALL of the description is "read", the 160 characters is the "display" limit, this should not be any kind of problem as if you need more than ten or twelve words to get the message in, it's too long anyway!

**kyh** · 02-28-2010, 11:57 AM

Okay, so we need to include our keywords/phrases, keep it to 150-160 characters long, use complete sentences, and be descriptive and interesting to draw interest.

Should the same exact keywords be used in the title, description and keyword listings?

kyh