Meta tags

This test checks whether metadata (a type of hidden information on a webpage) is present, and being used correctly. In particular, this includes meta tags.

Why do we test for this?

Some metadata has great value, particularly to search engines. Correct use of metadata can improve your placement in search engines, but more importantly how your website appears when in a search engine.

In particular, the description meta tag, is frequently shown in Google beneath the link to a specific result.

How do we test for this?

We look for all meta tags, but we only penalise a sites score if a description meta tag isn't included

What can I do about it?

Ensure that as a minimum you include a description meta tag in the head of each page on your site.