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Header Tags (H1-H6)

10-15 minBeginner

Proper H1-H6 heading structure is crucial for both SEO and accessibility. It helps Google understand your content hierarchy and allows screen readers to navigate your page. In WordPress, headings are handled differently depending on your editor.

Prerequisites

  • WordPress admin access
  • Understanding of H1 vs H2-H6 usage
Easy Recommended

Using Block Editor (Gutenberg)

The standard modern WordPress editor makes adding and changing headings intuitive.

1

Add a Heading Block

1

Click the + button to add a block

2

Search for "Heading" and select it

3

The default level is usually H2 (correct for main sections)

2

Change Heading Level

1

Click the H2 button in the block toolbar

2

Select the appropriate level (H2, H3, H4) from the dropdown

3

Never select H1 (your page title is automatically the H1)

3

Check Document Outline

1

Click the "Details" (i) icon or "List View" (3 lines) at the top of the editor

2

Review the document outline to ensure no levels are skipped (e.g., H2 to H4)

Best Practices

Do

  • Use H1 for the main topic/title only
  • Use H2 for main sections
  • Use H3 for subsections under H2s
  • Include long-tail keywords in H2s and H3s
  • Keep headings concise and descriptive

Don't

  • Use multiple H1 tags on a single page
  • Skip heading levels (e.g. going from H2 straight to H4)
  • Use headings just to make text big (use CSS/font-size instead)
  • Stuff keywords into every heading
  • Leave headings empty or duplicate them

Verification Checklist

  • Page has exactly ONE H1 tag (usually page title)
  • H1 contains primary keyword
  • Headings do not skip levels (H2 → H3, not H2 → H4)
  • Headings are used for structure, NOT just for bold/large text
  • Keywords appear naturally in H2/H3s

Pro Tips

  • Use the "HeadingsMap" Chrome extension to visualize your structure instantly
  • Think of your headings like a Table of Contents for a book
  • Google uses headings to generate "Jump to" links in search results
  • If you change a heading style globally, use custom CSS, don't change the tag level

Common Issues & Fixes

Problem: Multiple H1 tags found
Solution: The theme might be wrapping the logo in H1. Or you added an H1 in the content area. Change content header to H2, and check theme header.php.
Problem: Missing H1 tag
Solution: You might have hidden the page title in theme settings without providing a replacement. Ensure the H1 is visible functionality.
Problem: Headings look too big/small
Solution: Don't change the H-tag (e.g. H2 to H3) just to change size. Use the "Typography" settings or CSS class to adjust size while keeping structure correct.