What is Anchor Text?
Anchor text is the visible, clickable text in a hyperlink. It is typically underlined and highlighted in blue by default, although the style can vary depending on website design. Anchor text serves both a functional and an SEO purpose, helping users understand what kind of content the link leads to, and giving search engines context about the destination page.
For example, in the sentence: Check out our guide to technical SEO, the words “technical SEO” are the anchor text.
Why Anchor Text Matters
Anchor text is a significant on-page SEO factor. Search engines use it to interpret the relevance of the linked page, which can influence how that page ranks for specific keywords.
Benefits of effective anchor text include:
- Improving keyword relevance for linked pages
- Helping users navigate content more effectively
- Providing additional context for search engines
- Supporting internal linking strategies
- Boosting topical authority within a site
However, over-optimising anchor text with exact-match keywords can lead to penalties. A natural, varied approach is recommended.
Example in Use
If multiple websites link to your article about SEO audits using the anchor text “SEO audit checklist,” search engines will associate your page with that term. On the other hand, anchor text like “click here” or “read more” provides little keyword relevance.
Types of anchor text include exact match, partial match, branded, generic, and naked URLs.
Related Terms
- Backlink
- Link Building
- Nofollow / Dofollow
- Internal Linking
- Keyword Relevance