Learning how to write Meta descriptions (aka description tags) is messy but worth it. Think of them like the wingman of your website. They’ve only got roughly 150-155 characters to make you look good — and if they’re doing their job, they’ll convince someone to click through instead of scrolling right past you.

The problem? Most people either ignore them completely (letting Google auto-generate something messy), or they stuff them with keywords like it’s 2012. 

Neither gets you the clicks you want.

If you’ve been wondering how to write meta descriptions that help your SEO and make people curious enough to click, this one’s for you.

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What Meta Descriptions Do (And Don’t Do)

Let’s set the record straight:

• Meta descriptions don’t directly affect rankings. Yep, you read that right and sorry if you’ve been lied to.
  
• But they do affect click-through rates (CTR). Which means if your meta descriptions don’t describe what your page is about, you’re basically sabotaging your own traffic.
  

Think of them as your website’s mini elevator pitch. Short, snappy, and designed to make someone think, “yep, that’s what I’ve been looking for.” *clicks to page*

PS: If you’re struggling to get that elevator pitch across on your homepage too, don’t miss our guide on how to write a homepage.

The Anatomy of a Good Meta Description (Recommended Length + SEO Best Practices)

Here’s what makes a meta description work:

Length sweet spot: Between 150–160 characters is the meta description ideal length. Google may show fewer or more depending on the device, but going shorter than the meta description minimum length (around 70 characters) leaves valuable space unused. We also recommend to provide more, than less.

Keywords up front: Include your primary keyword naturally, ideally in the first half.
Clear value: Tell them what they’ll get if they click.
Call to action: An invitation feels more clickable than a flat statement.

For example, instead of:
“Website copywriting services for small businesses and creatives looking for better SEO.”

Does it work? Yes. 

Is it enticing? Not really.

Try:
“Website copywriting services that actually sound like you. Get SEO-smart copy that connects and converts.”

That’s the difference between a bland line of text and a mini sales pitch that works.

Meta Tags vs Meta Description

Quick clarification: meta tags are the broader set of HTML tags (title tags, meta titles, etc.), while the meta description is the snippet that shows up under your page title in search results.

They work together like a good ole’ PBJ sandy:

• Your title tag should include your keyword.
• Your meta description should reinforce the keyword and give people a reason to click.
  

If you need a refresher, I’ve got a full post on how to write a title tag and SEO title tips coming soon.

What Not To Do

Keyword stuffing — Please for the love of Jesus himself, do not keyword stuff like this: “SEO tips meta description SEO services SEO copywriter.” Just no.
Copy-paste across pages — Each page needs its own description.
Leaving it blank — Google will autofill with random text. Not cute.

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Quick Formulas To Try (For Beginners + Advanced SEO)

Need a shortcut? Here are three formulas you can swipe today:

1. Problem → Solution → CTA
   “Struggling with your homepage? Learn how to write a homepage that connects and converts.”
   
2. Curiosity → Clarity → Invitation
   “Not sure how to write a meta description? Here’s what works in 2025 (and what doesn’t).”
   
3. Service → Benefit → CTA
   “Freelance copywriter offering SEO-smart web copywriting services. Explore my copywriter portfolio.”
   

These formulas aren’t just for pros — they’re one of my favorite beginner SEO tips that make writing easier without overthinking.

Don’t Forget About Your About Page

Your about page isn’t just about telling your story — it’s about building trust. And if that page isn’t connecting, your meta description will fall flat too.

Read my blog on how to write an about page to learn how to make it resonate with your ideal client.

Meta Description SEO Best Practices: Extra Tips

• Do a quick meta description check: Tools like Yoast or Rank Math (on WordPress) will tell you if your length is off.
  
• Customize every page: Yes, even your “Contact Us” page deserves a meta description. (Ex: “Contact Kinfolk Creative — copywriting services to elevate your brand voice and SEO strategy.”)
  
• Pair with your titles: A strong meta title and a strong meta description work together to boost clicks.
  
• Think niche: If you’re a photographer, try meta descriptions tailored to your services. (“Indiana Statehouse elopement photographer” is a common search, so meet people where they are.)
  

These are some of the best SEO tips 2026 because they combine clarity with connection. And that’s the whole point.

Your Turn

Go peek at your website right now. Pick one page — your homepage, your services page, or even your contact page — and check if your meta description is:

• Clear – AKA I will know exactly what you do, who you do it for, and why I should care
• Keyword-smart
• 150–160 characters
• Written for humans
  

If not? Write a new one today.

And if you’re still staring at a blinking cursor thinking “ugh, help,” that’s where we come in. Our copywriting services are built to take the SEO overwhelm off your plate — so you can stop fussing with description tags and start showing up where your audience is actually searching. Make the first move here, we’d love to help you! 

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