What is a meta description?
A meta description is a short HTML attribute summarizing a page’s content. It appears as the grey text under your title in search results. While it is not a direct ranking factor, it heavily influences whether searchers click your result.
Why meta descriptions matter
A well-written description sells the click: it clarifies relevance, states the benefit and answers the searcher’s implicit question. Search engines may rewrite weak descriptions, so writing your own keeps your message in control.
How to write effective meta descriptions
- Keep them 150-160 characters.
- Include the primary keyword naturally.
- Lead with the value or answer.
- Add a compelling call to action.
- Make each description unique per page.
Meta descriptions and GEO
AI systems parse your description as part of understanding the page — a clear, keyword-rich summary supports accurate AI citation.
Related terms
How Social SEO Team can help
We write descriptions that win clicks. Explore our SEO services.