Tag: seo friendly url

How to generate SEO-friendly URLs that rank higher & attract clicks

Imagine this: your website’s link lands in the search results. Isn’t that a good start?

But then you notice it reads like a random string of nonsense, full of messy parameters and no clues about what the page is about.

That’s the problem with non-optimized URLs. With around 13.7 billion searches happening on Google every single day in 2025, each URL becomes a tiny battleground for clicks and visibility.

Now here’s where it gets even worse. A confusing, long URL won’t just annoy visitors; it can drag down your search ranking and click-through rate, spoiling your chances even before users arrive.

The perfect solution?

Crafting SEO-friendly URLs that both search engines and real humans love. In the following sections, we’ll discuss exactly what an SEO-friendly URL looks like and why it matters so much.

So, let’s get started!

What is an SEO-friendly URL?

An SEO-friendly URL is simply a web address that’s easy to read, meaningful to both people and search engines, and gives a quick clue about what the page is all about.

According to experts, “such URLs are unique URLs or links designed to meet the high standards of Google search engines and users”.

Key characteristics of SEO-friendly URLs:

Descriptive: It clearly describes the content of the page, so someone taking a quick look at it can guess what it’s about.
Keyword-rich: It includes the page’s main topic or keyword, not in a spammy way, but naturally.
Human-readable: It treats humans in a really nice way. No strings full of code, numbers, or random characters.
Short & precise: It doesn’t carry on forever. The shorter and more to the point it is, the easier it is to remember and share.
Lowercase letters: Using all lowercase letters avoids confusion and problems with case-sensitive systems.
Static (not dynamic): It avoids long query strings, lots of URL parameters, and IDs, keeping the link stable and meaningful.
Use hyphens: Words are separated by hyphens (“-”) rather than underscores (“_”) or no separators, because search engines treat hyphens as word breaks.

By sticking to these attributes, your URLs become far more user-friendly, shareable, and better understood by both search engines and humans.

Example of an SEO-friendly URL (bad one):

Example of an SEO-friendly URL (good one):

Why SEO-friendly URLs are important

Your URL is more than a link. It’s a sneak peek into your content!

When your URLs speak the same language as your audience and search engines, you win on multiple fronts — more clicks, better rankings, greater trust, and ease of use.

Here’s why SEO-friendly URLs matter:

Improves search engine rankings: A clean, descriptive URL gives search engines helpful context about your page. Even if it’s a moderate factor, it adds up.
Enhances click-through rates: When users see a URL that makes sense and reflects the content, they’re more likely to click. Descriptive URLs like “exampledotcom/best-coffee-recipes” attract more clicks than generic ones like “exampledotcom/page123”.
Better user experience: Easy-to-read URLs help users understand what a page is about before they click, which builds confidence.
Enhances user trust & avoids confusion: A cluttered or disorganized URL full of parameters and random numbers looks inadequate; a clean and readable one feels trustworthy and credible.
Make search results more meaningful: When the URL itself contains readable words relevant to the content, search results become more transparent and aligned with user intent.
Enhances crawlability & indexing: Search engines prefer logical, structured URLs. They’re quite easier to crawl and index.
Optimizes link sharing: Clean, short URLs are easier to copy, paste, and share on social media and other sites, boosting visibility.
Simplifies site navigation: A well-organized URL structure helps users and crawlers understand your site’s hierarchy and navigate more intuitively.
Supports a long-term SEO strategy: Rather than quick fixes, an SEO-friendly URL structure lays the foundation for scalable, maintainable SEO over time. This helps in fewer redirects, no broken links, and less confusion.

20 best practices for creating SEO-friendly URLs

Crafting SEO-friendly URLs isn’t just about adding keywords; it’s about building clear, meaningful links that both users and search engines can easily understand.

To help you get it right every time, here’s a quick breakdown of the essential do’s and don’ts. Simple rules you can follow to make every link count.

Do’s	Don’ts
Use descriptive keywords: Include primary keywords relevant to the content.	Avoid keyword stuffing: Repeating the same keyword excessively.
Keep it short and simple: Aim for concise and easy-to-read URLs.	Avoid long URLs: Don’t include unnecessary words or parameters.
Use hyphens to separate words: Makes URLs more readable for both users and search engines.	Avoid underscores or spaces: These can confuse search engines and users.
Ensure the URL structure matches the site hierarchy: Helps users navigate more easily.	Avoid complex structures: URLs with excessive parameters or IDs are harder to read and rank lower in search results.
Use lowercase letters: Prevents duplicate content issues.	Avoid mixed-case URLs: They can cause confusion and potential errors.
Make it evergreen: Use URLs that remain relevant even as content updates.	Avoid dates in URLs: Limits the perceived freshness of content.
Optimize for mobile users: Ensure URLs are user-friendly on mobile devices.	Avoid unintuitive URLs: Random strings of letters and numbers are off-putting.
Use secure URLs: Always use HTTPS to build trust and boost rankings.	Avoid HTTP: Non-secure links can harm rankings and trust.
Test URLs periodically: Ensure they lead to the correct pages and load properly.	Avoid broken links: Damages SEO and user experience.
Incorporate branding when possible: Branded URLs boost recognition.	Avoid generic URLs: URLs like “page1.html” lack context.

Let’s take a closer look!

1. Optimize the URL slug

The URL slug is the part of the URL after the domain name, such as:

Keep it relevant and descriptive, clearly signaling the webpage’s content.

Take out non-essential words in the slug, such as random characters, special symbols, and numbers that don’t contribute to clarity.

Helpful Tip: If you’re updating content, avoid changing the slug unless necessary, to retain backlinks and traffic.

2. Choose a top-level domain (TLD)

Your domain extension (e.g., .com, .edu, .net, .org) influences user trust. While TLDs don’t directly affect SEO, “.com” is widely recognized and preferred by users, which creates a sense of credibility and reliability.

3. Keep the URL short & precise

Short links, or URLs, perform better in search engines and are easier to remember and share. Aim for a URL length of under 60 characters. While Google doesn’t penalize long URLs, shorter URLs contribute to a better user experience and higher click-through rates.

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by transforming ordinary URLs into
branded short links that convert. Try Replug for free

4. Avoid using the full blog title as the URL

Don’t use complete blog titles as your URL slug, as they can use up unnecessary characters. Long blog titles result in lengthy URLs.

Optimize your URL by choosing a relevant focus keyword related to that web page. The aim should be to create descriptive URLs, so users are not confused about the particular page’s content.

5. Remove punctuation marks

Punctuation can unnecessarily complicate URLs, making them harder to handle efficiently. By eliminating them, you can create clean, user-friendly URLs that are easy for both visitors and search engines to interpret.

6. Incorporate the primary keyword (must)

Including the primary keyword in your URL contributes to improved SEO. This practice reinforces the topic of your page, increasing its likelihood of matching search queries and ranking higher in search results.

For instance, if you’re offering SEO services in a specific region or state, using a URL that emphasizes “SEO services in California” helps signal both the service and location to search engines. This strategy not only strengthens your local search ranking but also attracts users specifically looking for SEO services in California.

7. Use lowercase letters

Some servers treat uppercase and lowercase URLs differently, potentially causing duplicate content issues. Stick to lowercase to avoid complications and ensure SEO-friendly URLs.

Note: WordPress users shouldn’t worry, as it automatically puts URLs in lowercase and adds hyphens.

8. Use hyphens, not underscores

Google treats hyphens as spaces, making it easier to analyze your links. Underscores, however, can obscure your meaning.

For example:

Good: seo-friendly-url
Bad: seo_friendly_url

Using hyphens makes it easier for Google’s web crawlers to understand and estimate the information on your website, helping in generating steady results.

9. Incorporate keywords strategically

Keywords in URLs can boost SEO and enhance user understanding. But it is a good practice to avoid keyword stuffing.

1–2 keywords are enough. You must never repeat a keyword in a URL. Google will never reward you for using the same keyword in a URL more than once.

For instance:

Good practice:

Bad practice:

10. Limit folders & subfolders in the URL structure

Keep URLs short and straightforward by minimizing the use of folders and subfolders. This practice improves readability and user experience, as excessively nested subfolders can make navigation complex for visitors and search engines.

11. Use canonical tags for duplicate content

If the same content exists on multiple URLs, canonical tags tell search engines which version is the original. This prevents duplicate content issues and ensures proper indexing.

Look at the figure below to know how canonical tags work:

12. Prefer static over dynamic URLs

Static URLs are more straightforward, easier to read, and more SEO-friendly. Dynamic URLs, on the other hand, are less search-engine-friendly, include UTM parameters, and are complex to understand.

Pro Tip: Using a first-rate, SEO friendly short URL generator gives you more control over your links through customization and tracking.

Read also: Dynamic URLs vs. Static URLs

13. Avoid redirect loops & broken links

Minimizing redirect loops improves site speed and user experience. While redirects are sometimes necessary, excessive use can lead to issues with search engine crawlers. When needed, opt for 301 redirects for better SEO results.

Besides, regularly check for and fix broken links, as they can harm your site’s credibility, disrupt user journeys, and negatively impact your SEO performance.

14. Utilize futureproof URLs

Refrain from incorporating dates in URLs to prevent content from becoming outdated. Futureproofing URLs by excluding time-sensitive information enables content updates without altering the URL structure.

15. Hide “www” and HTTPS prefixes

Modern browsers already indicate secure connections with a lock icon, so hiding prefixes like “www” or “https” can streamline your URLs.

For instance:

16. Employ sub-domains when necessary

Sub-domains can help organize content for specific markets or purposes. Anyhow, use them conservatively to avoid diluting your website’s authority.

These domains improve navigation and organize your website. The end goal of SEO is to improve user experience, and sub-domains just do that.

17. Eliminate stop words

Words like “the,” “is,” or “of” are often unnecessary in URLs. Removing them reduces URL length while retaining clarity.

For example:

Before (👎):

After (👍):

18. Use “safe” characters

Stick to alphanumeric characters and hyphens in your URLs. Avoid spaces, &, %, #, and other special symbols that require encoding and may confuse both users and search engines.

19. Prioritize readability

Your URL should clearly convey what the page is about. Use meaningful words, separate them with hyphens, and keep it easy to read so both users and crawlers understand it at a glance.

20. Avoid over-optimization

Don’t force keywords into the URL or make it unnaturally long. Overloaded, spammy URLs harm user trust and may reduce SEO value even if technically allowed.

Make every link count: Build SEO-friendly URLs with Replug!

And there you have it!

Everything you need to know about creating SEO-friendly URLs that rank higher, attract clicks, and keep your visitors coming back.

Remember, a clean, clear URL isn’t just suitable for search engines; it’s a trust signal for real people, too. So, take a few minutes to clean up your links, and you’ll see the difference in your traffic and engagement.

Ready to take things up a notch? Give Replug a try today! It’s one of the best tools out there for generating short, branded, and truly SEO-friendly URLs!

Frequently asked questions

Which URL is best for SEO?

A “vanity URL”, like “yourbrand.com/seo-guide”, is ideal because it’s short, easy to remember, and clearly communicates the page’s topic. That kind of clean address helps both users and search engines alike.

How to check SEO-friendly URL?

Use a tool like an SEO-friendly URL checker to evaluate whether your URL is readable, descriptive, uses hyphens, and avoids unnecessary parameters.

Should a URL include keywords?

Yes, including one relevant keyword helps users and gives a minor context signal to search engines. However, just don’t stuff in multiple keywords redundantly.

Which is the best example of a SEO-friendly URL?

Something like this:

example.com/how-to-create-seo-friendly-urls

Human-readable, descriptive, hyphen-separated, lowercase, and no weird characters or long query strings.

How long can a URL be for SEO?

There’s no strict character limit for SEO. Aim for ~60–70 characters or fewer to keep it clean and share-friendly, but readability and clarity matter more than exact length.

Are long URLs bad for SEO?

Not necessarily bad, but longer, cluttered URLs can hurt readability and user trust. They might cut off in search results or be harder to share.

How to use SEO-friendly URLs in your site?

Make sure when you publish or edit content, you:

– use lowercase letters
– hyphen-separate words
– keep the slug short & meaningful
– avoid dynamic parameters and session IDs
– maintain a logical folder structure

Give me some SEO-friendly URL examples?

– yourbrand.com/vegan-dog-food-guidelines
– yourbrand.com/blog/increase-click-through-rate
– yourbrand.com/products/womens-leather-jacket

These URLs are descriptive, keyword-rich (but not over‐stuffed), use hyphens, and stay readable.

December 10, 2024

URL slug: Definition & best practices defined for SEO success
Crafting friendly URLs holds utmost importance, as they directly influence a website’s search engine ranking, click-through rates, and overall user experience.

A clean, keyword-rich slug not only makes your links easier to read and remember, but also signals relevance to search engines.

Even when using a link shortener, the custom URL slug you choose plays a vital role in branding, trust-building, and improving link performance.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices for structuring slugs that are SEO-friendly, user-focused, and optimized to work seamlessly across platforms and tools.

So, let’s get started!

What is a URL slug?

The portion of a URL that follows the domain name and any subdirectories is known as the “URL slug”. It is a human-readable and user-friendly text used to designate a particular web page.

Keywords associated with the page’s content are frequently used in URL slugs, making them more descriptive and much easier to remember.

URL slug etymology

The term “slug” in the context of publishing goes back to the days of print journalism. In newsrooms, a slug was a short label or nickname given internally to an article as it moved through the editing and production workflow.

In web publishing, that sense of a brief identifier carried over, and a slug became the short, human-readable token for a page.

Why is it called a URL slug?

In digital contexts and web systems, it’s called a URL slug because it provides a concise, human-readable identifier for a web page. Besides, it follows the domain and subdirectories, making URLs memorable and SEO-friendly.

Why are URL slugs important for SEO?

URL slugs are vital for SEO as they provide a concise, descriptive, and user-friendly representation of a webpage’s content. This helps both search engines and visitors quickly understand your pages.

Moreover, the following points highlight why well-crafted slugs are essential:
- Boost search rankings: A concise, keyword-rich slug signals relevance to search engines and can improve your page’s visibility.
- Enhance user experience: Clean and descriptive slugs help visitors instantly understand what the page is about before clicking.
- Improve readability: Short, well-structured URLs are easier to read, remember, and share across platforms.
- Increase trust and CTR: Clear slugs look more professional, which builds trust and encourages higher click-through rates.
- Support better indexing: Search engines can crawl and categorize content more effectively when slugs are structured properly.
- Encourage backlinks: Shareable, meaningful URLs are more likely to be cited or linked to by other websites.
URL slug best practices: Best tips for writing SEO-friendly slugs

People often think URL slugs are a minor SEO element, but that’s not true. They can significantly impact your website’s performance in search engine rankings and enhance user engagement.

Creating SEO-friendly URLs with refined slugs involves careful consideration of keywords, readability, and user experience. Below are some key actionable tips to help you optimize your URL slugs effectively.

1. Include your keyword in the URL slug

The very first object that comes to mind when discussing SEO is the “keyword”. In addition to the content, you must include your primary keyword in the URL slugs as well.

Search engines use slugs to understand the context of your page content. As far as users are concerned, looking at the URL makes it easier for them to identify what the specific page is really about.

For example, if your focus keyword is ‘AI Tools for Social Media’, you need to incorporate these keywords in your URL slug, just like ContentStudio did.

2. Keep the slug part short, yet informative

Try to keep your URL slugs short and informative to make them appealing to both users and search engines. Imagine you run a website dedicated to a content curation tool. Instead of having lengthy URL slugs like:

Consider using a more compact and descriptive URL slug:

This shorter version conveys the essence of the page’s content while being more SEO and user-friendly.

Note: Users are more likely to click on links with concise and relevant URLs, as they can quickly grasp the page’s content before visiting it. Moreover, shareability improves when URLs are shorter, making it easier for people to share your content on other platforms hassle-free.

3. Use hyphens, not underscores, to separate words

Prioritize the use of hyphens instead of underscores. Hyphens serve as clear word separators that enhance the visual appeal and readability of your URLs.

Search engines recognize hyphens as natural dividers between words. This enables them to interpret the content more accurately.

Consider the following two URL slugs:

Visibly, the first version presents a tidy and simple URL that users and search engines can process without difficulty. The second version with underscores, on the other hand, seems cluttered and less practical.

4. Use lowercase letters in the URL slug

To ensure consistency and avoid problems with duplicate content, always use lowercase letters and characters when creating your page slug.

Instead of something like “What-Are-Ctas-In-Marketing,” “what-are-ctas-in-marketing” is preferred.

Note: URLs are handled case-sensitively by search engines.

This means that “what-are-ctas-in-marketing” and “What-Are-Ctas-In-Marketing” are treated as two separate URLs. This might result in issues with identical content and weaken your website’s SEO efforts.

Moreover, mixed-case URLs can make it more difficult for users to remember or share them correctly.

5. Keep it evergreen

Use content that will remain relevant and valuable over time when creating URL slugs. More precisely, avoid incorporating time-sensitive details such as specific years or dates in your URL slugs.

Evergreen slugs help improve SEO results because search engines value content that holds its value over an extended period.

You can prevent potential broken links and maintain the SEO authority that has developed over time by removing time-sensitive elements from your slugs. This eliminates the need to update URLs with each passing year.

6. Use one domain and one subdomain

Maintain a clean URL structure by sticking to one primary domain and a minimal number of subdomains (stick to 1). This approach helps strengthen your website’s authority and assists with content fragmentation.

Opt for “blog.example.com” instead of “example.com/blog.”

Moreover, a compact URL structure simplifies your website’s maintenance and improves link equity distribution. You avoid the risk of diluting SEO authority across multiple subdomains, ensuring that your primary domain gains maximum value from incoming links.

Note: You can use subfolders instead of subdomains. Subfolders within the main domain consolidate link equity, making the website more authoritative and easier to rank. Many case studies have shown significant traffic increases when moving content from subdomains to subfolders.

Source: Andy Chadwick’s Twitter account (X) Tweet

Source: Stephen Kenwright Twitter account (X) tweet

7. Update old slugs, but be careful

Always ensure that proper redirects are set up when changing a slug to prevent broken links and maintain the SEO authority of the previous URL.

Because sudden changes can result in broken links and negatively affect user experience and search engine rankings, managing URL changes requires careful planning.

You can smoothly direct users and search engines to the new URL while transferring the SEO value accrued by the old slug by implementing “301 redirects”.

Your website will continue to be user-friendly and search engine optimized if outdated slugs are strategically updated.

Furthermore, it aids in maintaining backlinks and search engine rankings while securing a steady flow of organic traffic to your updated content.

8. Match slugs to headlines

To further emphasize the relevance of your content, you must confirm that your URL slugs and page headlines are consistent. Both users and search engines will have an easier time understanding the purpose of your page if you align both elements.

This practice assists search engines in associating your content’s main topic with the URL, potentially improving your website’s ranking for relevant search queries.

Additionally, users are more likely to click on links that display a clear correlation between the headline and URL, enhancing their browsing experience.

9. Use fewer page categories

Keep your URL slug structure simple by minimizing the number of categories and avoiding keyword stuffing. Clear and uncomplicated slugs make it easier for users to navigate your website and for search engines to understand your content.

Let’s take a look at a social media analytics tool web page. Rather than using a confusing, long URL, they preferred a short and descriptive URL slug:

This direct method keeps things crystal clear.

10. Choose a memorable domain name

Find a unique domain name and pair it with a relevant URL slug. By doing this, you can enhance your band’s recognition and reinforce your website’s theme.

The combination in the picture above exemplifies how a cohesive URL structure can align with your brand’s identity.

Note: When users encounter a domain name that resonates with their interests, they are more likely to remember and revisit your website. This instant recall plays a significant role in building a loyal audience base.

Adding a relevant URL slug like further enhances user engagement. It communicates the content focus, guiding visitors to the specific section they are interested in. This targeted approach saves users time and effort, promoting a positive user experience.

Also Read:Beginners’ guide to URLs: URL types, structure & best practices

How to change URL slug in WordPress?

WordPress is known for its user-friendly interface and flexibility, making it a popular choice for website development. Changing a URL slug on WordPress is a simple process that can be done within the platform’s settings by following the steps below.

Step 1: Set up your permalink structure

Before starting, you must ensure that your permalink structure allows for user-friendly URL slugs. Navigate to “Settings” and then to “Permalinks.”

You can choose one of the standard permalink structure types or create your own. However, it is recommended to use the “Post name” structure.

Step 2: Edit the slug in the post or page editor

Open the editor of the post or webpage and look for the “URL” section in the rightmost panel. Click on the automatically generated slug and edit it the way you want to. That’s it.

Related: How to Change Permalink in WordPress: Step-by-Step

Benefits of using SEO-friendly URL slugs

An SEO-friendly URL slug is more than just aesthetic; it helps both users and search engines understand what a page is about before even clicking. The right structure can improve visibility, credibility, and usability across the board.

1. Enhanced search engine visibility

Strengthening your website’s search engine optimization is a key advantage of using SEO-friendly URL slugs. Search engines can learn a lot about the content of your page when you use relevant keywords in the URL slugs of your URLs.

The search engine’s ability to index and rank your pages for relevant search queries is subsequently improved.

2. Amplified shareability

Concise, descriptive, and simple-to-remember URLs are more likely to be shared on various platforms. There is a much greater chance for users to share valuable content with their friends, coworkers, or social media networks when the URLs are simple and clear.

When the reader comes across your URL slug, which is to the point (has the focus keyword), they can easily copy and paste the URL, knowing that the link is authentic. The user-friendly and shareable URL slug allows others to access the same content quickly and effortlessly.

3. Higher click-through rates

An SEO-optimized URL slug can also improve click-through rates (CTR) from search engine results pages (SERPs). When users see a relevant and well-structured URL slug that matches their search intent, they are more likely to click on the link, expecting it to lead to content that aligns with their needs.

The user-friendly and keyword-rich URL slug assures the user that the page contains the desired information, thus increasing the likelihood of a click.

Let’s say someone is searching for “best smartphone deals”. He’ll click on a URL with a slug like “/best-smartphone-deals” rather than a generic one like “/products/abc123.”

6 major mistakes to avoid while creating URL Slugs

As discussed before, URL slugs play an essential role in enhancing your website’s SEO and user experience. However, there are common mistakes that can impact your website’s performance and rankings.

Below are six prominent errors that you need to avoid when crafting URL slugs for your web pages.

1. Avoid stop words

Common words like “and,” “the,” “of,” “a”, etc., are stop words, and they add very little to the meaning of a URL. Avoid using them in your slugs because doing so will lengthen them and make them less readable.

For example:

2. Avoid using dates in slugs

The use of specific dates in URL slugs can result in out-of-date content and affect SEO. Rather than

In this manner, you can prevent updating your URLs annually and ensure their continued relevance.

The biggest issue is that when you need to change the date from 2024 to 2025, you must update the slug and redirect the old URL to the new one. This process can be time-consuming and may lead to broken links if not handled correctly.

Moreover, these URL redirects can be suboptimal. They may result in less link juice passing through to the destination URLs. This means that the SEO value of your old URL might not fully transfer to the new one.

Note: By leaving out numbers and using descriptive slugs, you avoid the need for frequent redirects and maintain a consistent flow of link equity to your content.

3. Avoid using special characters

Including special characters like question marks, exclamation marks, or dollar signs can cause issues with URL encoding in your slugs.

Certain characters are replaced with encoded strings, making the URL less readable. Furthermore, some special characters may not be universally supported by all browsers and platforms, potentially causing compatibility issues for some users.

What’s best is that you can use hyphens to separate words in your slugs. Hyphens are considered word separators, providing better readability for search engines and users alike. Hyphen-separated slugs contribute to a cleaner and more professional appearance for your URLs.

4. Avoid trailing slash issues

Adding a trailing slash at the end of a URL can unintentionally create duplicate content problems for your website.

A negative effect on SEO may result from search engines treating URLs with and without the trailing slash as separate pages. Maintaining consistency in your URL structure is essential for mitigating this problem.

You can guarantee that users and search engines always access the preferred version of your content by consistently using one format for your URLs and implementing the appropriate redirects.

For example:

5. Avoid broken links after making any changes

Making changes to your URL structure or slugs is a common practice, but it’s critical to handle these changes carefully. This is to avoid broken links and maintain a consistent user experience.

Note: Setting up 301 redirects from the old URLs to the new ones is essential when changing a URL.

Users who are trying to access your content may become frustrated if you neglect to implement proper redirects. Broken links not only have a bad effect on the user experience, but they also give the wrong impression to search engines, which could lower the ranking of your website.

6. Avoid ranking cannibalization

Ranking or keyword cannibalization is a phenomenon where multiple pages on your website compete for the same keyword. As a result, there is internal competition in the search results.

Concentrate on making sure that each URL slug targets a different and specific keyword or topic to prevent this phenomenon. Conduct keyword research and use different variations for each page.

Note: You can improve each page’s content clarity and relevance in the eyes of search engines by allocating unique URLs to particular keywords or topics. This enables search algorithms to better understand the purpose and intent of your pages, leading to improved rankings for relevant search queries.

Concluding remarks

From understanding what a URL slug is to learning why it matters for SEO, user experience, and CTR, this guide covered everything you need to know about crafting the perfect slug.

We explored best practices like keeping slugs short, keyword-rich, and evergreen, while also avoiding common mistakes such as using dates, special characters, or stop words.

At the end of the day, an optimized and clean URL slug does more than make your URL look professional. It builds trust, strengthens branding, improves visibility, and drives clicks. Treat your slugs as a small but powerful SEO asset, and they’ll continue to pay off in the long run.

Ready to put your optimized slugs into action?

Try Replug.io! It is the ultimate link shortener and URL optimization tool that helps you create clean, branded, and trackable links in seconds. Give it a go today!

Frequently asked questions

What is the optimal URL slug length?

The optimal URL slug length is typically 3-5 words or 20-60 characters, ensuring it’s concise, descriptive, and includes relevant keywords for SEO. Shorter slugs are user-friendly and easier to share, while avoiding excessive length improves readability and search engine performance.

What is an example of a slug?

An example of a URL slug is “best-hiking-trails” in the URL “www.example.com/blog/best-hiking-trails”.

URL slug examples like this are short, descriptive, and use keywords to clearly indicate the page’s content, enhancing SEO and user experience.

How to create a slug?

To create a slug, manually craft a concise, descriptive phrase using lowercase letters, hyphens, and relevant keywords, like “best-travel-tips” for a blog post. Alternatively, use a URL slug generator tool to automatically produce SEO-friendly slugs based on your page title or content. Both methods certify user-friendly and search-optimized URLs.

What is the difference between URL slug and path?

A URL slug is the specific, human-readable part of a URL that identifies a page, like “about-us” in “www.example.com/about-us”. In contrast, the URL path includes the slug and any preceding directories, such as “/blog/about-us”.

Understanding the difference between URL slug vs. path helps clarify that the slug is a concise page identifier, while the path shows the full navigational structure.

What is the difference between a permalink and a URL slug?

A URL slug is the descriptive, human-readable segment of a URL identifying a specific page, like “contact-us” in “www.example.com/contact-us”. A permalink is the complete, permanent URL, including the domain, directories, and slug, designed to remain unchanged. This distinction in permalink vs URL slug ensures clarity in linking and SEO optimization.

What is the difference between a URL slug and a URL?

A URL slug is the specific, human-readable part of a URL that identifies a particular page, such as “blog-post” in “www.example.com/blog-post”. On the other hand, a URL is the complete web address, including the domain, protocol, and path, like “https://www.example.com/blog-post”. Understanding this difference clarifies that the slug is just one component of the whole URL structure.

Does changing the slug change the URL?

Yes, changing the URL slug alters the URL, as the slug is the part that identifies a specific page, like “new-post” in “www.example.com/new-post”. Modifying it, for instance, to “updated-post”, results in a new URL, “www.example.com/updated-post”, which may impact SEO and require redirects to avoid broken links.

What are URL slug parameters?

URL slug parameters are not typically part of a slug, as slugs are static, human-readable URL segments like “product-name” in “www.example.com/product-name”. URL parameters, appended after a slug (e.g., “?id=123” in “www.example.com/product-name?id=123”), are dynamic query strings used to pass additional data to a webpage. Understanding this distinction ensures clarity in URL structure and functionality.
August 2, 2023
What Is a Permalink? How Does It Impacts SEO Ranking?
What are Permalinks?

Permalinks are permanent URLs that lead to specific webpages, enhancing navigation and SEO.

In the vast landscape of SEO, where digital trails intertwine and vie for attention, there emerges a significant factor known as the permalink. Permalinks give your content a digital identity, helping search engines understand what it’s all about. They’re like carefully crafted labels that can boost your website’s position in search engine rankings.

In simpler terms, permalinks are like digital fingerprints that help search engines find and rank your website. Using the right words in your permalinks can improve your website’s visibility and attract more visitors. So, let’s discover how they can boost your website’s presence online!

What are the characteristics of a Permalink?

The characteristics of a Permalink contribute to effective navigation, accessibility, and search engine optimization for web content. Here are the characteristics of a permalink:

Permanent: Designed to remain unchanged over time.

Descriptive: Includes keywords that describe the webpage’s content.

Readable: Easy to read and understand.

Consistent: Follows a consistent structure across the website.

SEO-friendly: Optimized with relevant keywords for search engine visibility.

Shareable: Allows easy sharing of specific web pages.

User-friendly: Enhances overall user experience.

Related: How to Create an SEO Friendly URL: Ultimate Tips

What is the structure and examples of a Permalink?

The structure of a permalink typically consists of the base URL of the website followed by additional elements that identify the specific webpage. Here is a common structure for permalinks:

https://www.example.com/category/post-title

In this structure, “https://www.example.com” represents the base URL of the website, “category” indicates the category or section of the webpage, and “post-title” denotes the unique title of the specific post.

Examples of permalinks based on the given structure:

https://www.example.com/news/introduction-to-permalinks

https://www.example.com/blog/seo-tips-for-beginners

https://www.example.com/products/product-name

https://www.example.com/events/upcoming-conference-detailsThese examples demonstrate how permalinks incorporate the website’s base URL, relevant category or section, and a descriptive element that represents the specific content of the webpage.

Why should permalinks remain unchanged?

Here are the reasons why permalinks should remain unchanged:

Consistency: Unchanged permalinks provide a consistent and reliable web address.

Accessibility: They allow users to confidently bookmark, share, and reference specific web pages.

SEO Impact: Consistent permalinks help search engines establish a historical record of the webpage and improve search engine rankings.

Backlinks: Changing permalinks can invalidate existing backlinks, leading to traffic loss and credibility.

User Experience: Unchanged permalinks improve user experience by avoiding broken links and confusion.

Related: How to rename a link?

Why Do Permalinks Matter & How Do Permalinks Affect SEO?

Permalinks play an important role in search engine optimization (SEO) as they impact how search engines understand and rank your web pages.Here are some of the factors and tips to keep in mind for optimizing permalinks in the light of SEO:
- Include relevant keywords: Incorporate keywords that accurately reflect the content of the page. This helps search engines understand the topic and improves your chances of ranking for relevant searches.
- Keep it concise and readable: Create permalinks that are easy to read and understand.Use hyphens (-) to separate words and avoid using numbers or special characters. A clear and concise permalink improves user experience and SEO.
- Use a hierarchical structure: Organize your permalinks in a logical and hierarchical structure that reflects the structure of your website. This helps search engines understand the relationships between different pages and sections.
- Exclude stop words: Remove unnecessary words like “and,” “the,” or “of” from your permalinks. Focus on the essential keywords that convey the main topic of the page.
- Avoid changing permalinks frequently: Once you set a permalink structure, try to stick with it to maintain consistency. Changing permalinks frequently can lead to broken links and negatively impact your SEO. If you need to change a permalink, set up proper redirects to maintain SEO value.
- Customize permalink settings:
If you’re using a content management system (CMS) like WordPress, utilize its permalink settings to customize the URL structure. Choose a format that includes post titles or categories to optimize for SEO.
- Consider user experience: Permalinks should not only be optimized for search engines but also for users. Create permalinks that are descriptive and provide a clear idea of what the page is about. This helps users understand the content before clicking.
- Monitor and update: Regularly monitor your website’s performance, rankings, and user behavior. If you notice any issues or changes in search engine visibility, review and update your permalinks as needed.
- Set up proper 301 redirects:
When you change the permalink, make sure to set up 301 redirects from the old URL to the new URL. This tells search engines that the content has permanently moved and preserves your SEO value.

Related: What Does HTTP 302 Code Means For URL Shorteners?
- Keep the keywords consistent: Try to include the same or similar keywords in the new permalink as in the old one. This helps search engines understand the relevance of the content and maintain your rankings.
- Update internal links: Don’t forget to update any internal links within your website that point to the old permalink. Make sure they now point to the new permalink to provide a seamless user experience and maintain your SEO value.
- Reach out to external websites: If you have control over external websites linking to your old permalink, it’s a good idea to contact them and ask if they can update the links. This way, you preserve the link equity and SEO value associated with those backlinks.
- Submit your sitemap and fetch as Google: Update your website’s sitemap to include the new permalink and submit it to search engines. Additionally, use the “Fetch as Google” tool in Google Search Console to prompt search engines to crawl and index the new permalink.
- Keep an eye on your website’s performance: Monitor your website’s rankings and performance after the permalink change. Check for any fluctuations or issues and make adjustments if necessary.
- Keyword relevance:
Permalinks that include relevant keywords help search engines understand the content of a page. Including targeted keywords in the permalink can improve the page’s visibility for those specific search terms.
- Click-through rates: A well-structured and descriptive permalink can attract more clicks from users in search engine results pages (SERPs). When the permalink accurately reflects the content, it provides a clear idea to users about what they can expect on the page, leading to higher click-through rates.
- Backlink anchor text: When other websites link to your content, they often use the URL as the anchor text. Having relevant keywords in the permalink contributes to the anchor text of those backlinks, which can positively influence SEO and keyword rankings.
- Indexing and crawling: Permalinks play a role in search engine crawling and indexing processes. Clear and logical permalink structures make it easier for search engine bots to understand the organization and hierarchy of your website, leading to better indexing and potentially improved search visibility.
- URL sharing:
When people share your content via social media, email, or other platforms, they often include the URL. Having a permalink that is concise, descriptive, and visually appealing can encourage more sharing and engagement, amplifying the reach of your content.
- Credibility and trust: Permalinks that are readable and consistent convey a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness to users. A clean and well-formatted URL is more likely to be clicked and shared by users, contributing to increased traffic and potential backlinks.
Related: URL Hijacking Uncovered: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Online Presence

What are the steps to follow to create permalinks?

Following the steps given below and create effective and SEO-friendly permalinks that accurately represent your content and enhance your website’s visibility in search engine results.
- Determine the permalink structure: Decide on the format and structure you want to use for your permalinks. Consider including elements such as the post title, category, or date.
- Access your content management system (CMS): If you’re using a CMS like WordPress, log in to the admin panel or dashboard.
- Navigate to the permalink settings: In the CMS settings, locate the section related to permalinks. This may be under the “Settings” or “Permalinks” menu.
- Customize the permalink structure: Within the permalink settings, choose the desired permalink structure that aligns with your preferences and website organization. Many CMS platforms offer predefined options or allow for customization.
- Incorporate relevant keywords: When creating permalinks, include relevant keywords that accurately describe the content of the page. This helps search engines understand the topic and improve your chances of ranking for relevant searches.
- Ensure readability and clarity: Create permalinks that are concise, easy to read, and understand. Use hyphens (-) to separate words and avoid unnecessary characters, numbers, or special symbols. Clear and readable permalinks benefit both search engines and users.
- Test the permalink: Before finalizing the permalink, click on it to ensure it directs to the correct page. Verify that the URL structure accurately represents the content and is free from any errors.
- Avoid frequent permalink changes: It is generally advisable to maintain a consistent permalink structure to avoid broken links and negative impacts on SEO. If you must change a permalink, set up proper redirects to preserve SEO value and user experience.
Related: How to create a vanity URL?

How to Change a Permalink in the WordPress Editor?

In order to change a permalink in the WordPress Editor, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to your WordPress dashboard.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Posts” or “Pages” section, depending on where the content with the permalink is located.

Find the specific post or page you want to edit and click on it to open it in the editor.

Step 3: In the editor, look for the section that displays the permalink. It is usually located below the title of the post or page.
Click on the “Edit” button next to the permalink. This will allow you to modify the existing URL.

Make the desired changes to the permalink. You can edit the text, remove certain words, or add new keywords.

After making the changes, click on the “OK” or “Save” button to update the permalink.

Once the permalink is updated, click on the “Update” or “Publish” button to save the changes to the post or page.

Note: It’s important to note that changing the permalink will result in a new URL for that specific content. This may affect any existing links pointing to the old permalink. To mitigate this, WordPress automatically sets up redirects from the old URL to the new one.

Related: How to hyperlink?

Frequently asked questions

What is permalink or permanent link?

A permalink, also known as a permanent link.

What is the difference between permalinks, slugs, and links?

– Permalinks are the permanent URLs that point to specific pages or posts on a website.
– Slugs are the user-friendly and readable portion of the permalink that comes after the domain name.
– Links, in general, refer to clickable URLs that direct users to web pages.

What is the difference between permalinks and dynamic links?

Permalinks are static and permanent URLs that remain constant over time and point to specific pages or posts on a website. Dynamic links, on the other hand, are generated dynamically and often include query strings or parameters that change based on user interactions or database queries.

What is a permalink in wordpress?

In WordPress, a permalink refers to the permanent URL structure assigned to each post, page, or custom post type. It is a web address that remains unchanged over time and provides a direct link to a specific piece of content on a WordPress website. Permalinks play a crucial role in identifying and accessing individual pages or posts, and they can be customized to reflect the content’s title, category, or other elements.

What Happens If I Change My WordPress Permalinks?

If you change your WordPress permalinks, it can affect your search engine rankings and lead to broken links. To mitigate this, set up proper redirects and update internal links to preserve SEO value and maintain user access to content.
May 25, 2023