Comma Vs. Dash in Meta Keywords
The metadata section in the HTML code at the top of every Web page contains data that is machine parsable. Machine parsable means that this information is read by computer programs, such as Google or other search engines, and this information is used to deliver results, including search engine results. It is important to code this information properly and include proper punctuation to help the machines read this information.
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What are Meta Keywords?
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Meta keywords are a set of 10 to 15 of the most important words or word phrases that appear on a Web page. Do not try to include every possible keyword for your page, but focus more on the key elements discussed. These keywords used to play a large role in search engine optimization. Even though they are less important now, you should still include them in your Web page code.
Where to Insert Meta Keywords
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Meta Keywords are found in the header portion of your Web page's HTML code. In the code, you will first identify the meta type as a keyword, as noted below, and then add your specific keywords inside the quote marks after the content code. For example:
<meta name="keywords" content="insert keywords separated by commas" /> -
Meta Keyword Separators
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According to internet marketing company SEO Logic, you should separate your keywords or keyword phrases with commas. They recommend your keyword lists contain 10 to 15 words or phrases and list your most important ones first. If you separate your keywords with a comma, you do not need to include a space between the words, just the comma will do.
Meta Keyword and Google Ranking
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According to a 2009 report, Google no longer uses meta keywords to determine Google page ranks. Google goes, however, pay attention to some other Web page meta information. Information contained in the meta description section is often displayed as part of the Google search results. This section can include keywords but should be written with a human audience in mind. The title meta tag is also a useful place to include keywords. This information appears at the top of your browser window. You should still include some meta keywords on your Web pages because some lesser quality search engines may still include meta keywords in their page ranks.
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References
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