Sometimes taking it back to basics is the best way to move forward. There are a lot of misconceptions out there about the purpose of SEO, so let’s set the record straight.

In short, SEO or search engine optimization is the act of taking steps and/or following precise procedures to make a Web page or series of Web pages more attractive to search engines and directories. The overall goal is to have one or more specific search terms rank high in the results returned when a visitor types a search string into the engine in question.

OK, that’s the really boring technical term. Now let’s look at what it’s really about. SEO is about trying to get your site in front of the eyes of your target audience by way of search engines. It’s not about competing with search engines or trying to fool them. It’s not even about competing against other Web sites. It’s about competing with Web pages. It might not sound like much, but understanding that subtle difference is where your search engine success begins.