Google Secrets glossary for SEO, search engine optimization, ranking & web traffic

Google Secrets SEO Glossary - A

The following terms are used in Google Secrets and cover the spectrum of search engine optimization (SEO) - from keywords to meta tags to PageRank to link popularity to web traffic.

Algo, Algorithm. A specific mathematical process for achieving a desired result. Google uses a proprietary algorithm that contains over 100 different criteria to rank Web sites in a specific order based on a specific search request.

Algorithmic listing. Any search engine listing that is on the "free" or unpaid section of a search results page. These listings are obtained using SEO techniques without the use of paid advertising. Also called organic, natural or editorial listing.

Anchor text. The clickable portion of text displayed (usually as blue, underlined text) for a link. Also known as link text.

Authority. Site with a high number of incoming links and a relatively low number of outgoing links. Opposite of hub.