Meta Description
Definition
The short summary that appears under your page title in Google search results. A well-written meta description improves click-through rates from search results.
What is a Meta Description?
A meta description is a short summary (150-160 characters) that describes a page's content. It appears in search results under the blue clickable title.
Example
If you search "web design exeter", you'll see results like:
Web Design Exeter | Pink Frog Studio Professional web design services in Exeter. We build fast, beautiful websites that actually generate leads. Get a free quote today.
The second line is the meta description.
Why Meta Descriptions Matter
Improve Click-Through Rate
A compelling meta description convinces people to click your result instead of others. More clicks = more traffic.
Not a Ranking Factor
Google has confirmed meta descriptions don't directly affect rankings. However, higher click-through rates can indirectly help.
Google May Rewrite It
Google often ignores your meta description and pulls text from your page instead, especially if it better matches the search query.
Writing Good Meta Descriptions
Include Your Keyword
When someone searches that term, it appears bold in results.
Be Compelling
Give people a reason to click ā what will they get?
Include a Call to Action
"Get a free quote", "Learn how", "Discover why"
Stay Under 160 Characters
Google truncates longer descriptions.
Make Each Page Unique
Don't use the same description across your whole site.
Bad vs Good Examples
ā "We offer web design services. Contact us today."
ā "Custom web design in Exeter that actually generates leads. Fast, mobile-friendly, and built to convert. Get your free quote today."