Backlinks are the incoming links from other websites that come to yours. A high number of backlinks demonstrate authority and search engines like Google use these to determine SERP (Search Engine Page Ranking).
More high quality backlinks = higher SERP.
What is Anchor Text?
Anchor text helps the search engines and readers going through your article. It gives both contextual information of whether to click on a link or not. It tells more about the link’s destination.
Anchor text example 
Google also uses anchor text to see how people view your website – what that means is the text an external website uses while linking to you gives Google a description of what you are about. This plays such an important role because if many sites describe your pages they link to in a certain way with certain terms you will begin ranking for the terms even though the pages don’t have the exact terms themselves.
But being a website you cannot control this but you can control the anchor text on your pages – how useful, relevant and descriptive these are. (Source: Google)
Importance of Anchor Text in SEO
Using relevant anchor text helps everyone. It helps the search engine know what the page is about, it helps the user know where to go to read more and it helps you as a website owner because it improves your search ranking.
There are different types of anchor texts- one of these are the branded anchor texts (more about them later) which provide you with the opportunity to get branding deals and partnerships with different brands.
Anchor text also gives your pages more credibility both from search engine and user perspective; even if you are linking to external websites that have nothing to do with your page rank- users appreciate resources for further reading especially if it is an informational article. The article just seems overall well researched and well-written when it includes a lot of hyperlinks to cross check information.
Here are some ways anchor texts can help in transforming monotonous text to something that the users enjoy reading:
- If you want the reader to trust your content link back to articles that prove your claims with data. A good example of this is “As as seen and Forbes Advisor Organic clicks make up 45.1% of clicks from search results.”
- If you want them to be curious, keep them on the edge by revealing industry-insider information like “You might not believe this but Google uses over 200 factors to determine your SERP.”
Having keywords within anchor text is only a good idea if you’re doing it moderately. But don’t just stuff keywords even though they are not relevant. The users can tell when a hyperlink has only been added to stuff keywords – it’s not a very good impression on the user and Google hates it too so you’re in a no-win situation.
Types of Anchor Text
Branded Anchor Text
Branded anchor text uses the brand name alone as the clickable text. This type is ideal for establishing brand authority and directing users to a specific website or page.
Examples:
- “Explore backlink strategies with Linkly.”
- “Learn about the latest SEO trends on Linkly.”
- “Visit Linkly for expert backlink services.”
Brand + Keyword Anchor Text
This type of anchor text combines the brand name with a specific keyword, enhancing relevance and providing context for both users and search engines.
Examples:
Exact-Match Anchor Text
Exact-match anchor text involves using a keyword that precisely matches the linked page’s primary keyword. This type helps in directly signaling the content of the linked page.
Example:
Partial-Match Anchor Text
Partial-match anchor text includes a variation of the target keyword, providing flexibility while still maintaining keyword relevance.
Example:
- “Explore various link-building strategies and tips.”
Naked Link Anchor Text
A naked link is simply a URL used as the anchor text. This straightforward method is clear but less descriptive for users.
Example:
- “Visit us at https://backlinks.linkly.digital/ for more information.”
Generic Anchor Text
Generic anchor text uses non-specific phrases such as “click here” or “read more,” which are less effective for SEO but can be useful in guiding user actions.
Example:
- “Click here to learn more about reciprocal links.”
Image Anchor Text
When linking an image, the alt text of the image acts as the anchor text. This practice is important for accessibility and SEO.
Example:
- If an image of the Linkly’s logo is linked, the alt text might be: “Linkly Digital – Expert Backlink Services.”
Best Practices for Using Anchor Text
Do Your Keyword Research
Before picking your anchor text, dig into some keyword research. Relevant keywords can boost your search rankings. But don’t go overboard with exact-match keywords. Too many can backfire and hurt your rankings.
Keep Links Relevant
Your links need to make sense with the content they’re in and where they’re going. Skip the “click here” stuff. Use clear, descriptive words that tell readers what to expect when they click.
Think About Branding
Using your brand name in links helps with visibility. But mix it up. Use branded terms and descriptive phrases. This way, you’ll rank for more keywords and keep your brand strong online.
Make It SEO-Friendly
Good anchor text should be:
- Short: Keep it simple and to the point.
- Relevant: Make sure it relates to the page you’re linking to.
- Light on Keywords: Don’t cram in too many keywords.
- Clear: Use specific terms, not vague ones.
Natural Flow Matters
Your anchor text should fit naturally in your content. It shouldn’t feel forced or out of place.
Avoid Over-Optimization
Use keywords, but don’t stuff them in. Balance is key.
Mix Up Anchor Text Types
Use a mix of exact-match, partial-match, branded, and generic anchors. This variety helps your site’s search performance.
Keep the User in Mind
Links should improve the user experience. Make them useful and easy to understand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Many Exact Match Keywords
Using exact-match keywords too much can get you penalized by search engines. Aim for a natural mix.
Irrelevant Links
Anchor text should always be relevant. Irrelevant links confuse users and lower content value.
Forgetting the User Experience
Don’t focus only on SEO. Make sure anchor texts help the reader and add to the content.
Extra Tips
- LSI Keywords: Use related terms in your anchor texts. They help search engines understand your content better.
- Anchor Text Placement: Place links at the beginning or middle of your content for better click rates.
- Keep an Eye on Performance: Regularly check how your anchor texts are doing. Use tools like Google Search Console to spot any issues.
- Don’t Over-Link: Too many links can be overwhelming. Keep a balanced approach.