How to write good link texts?

Links act as bridges or paths that direct both people and search engines throughout the internet in the context of SEO. However, link text, also known as anchor text, is a crucial element that is rarely given the same consideration as backlink building or site structure optimization, which is the focus of most marketers.

Linking pages together is only one aspect of anchor text. It informs search engines about the content of the linked page, impacts SEO rankings, and shapes user expectations. It can improve the user experience and authority of your website if done correctly. Done badly, it can confuse visitors and Google and undermine your SEO strategy.

The first example tells both the user and the search engine what to expect. The second one is unspecific and offers minimal benefit.

Anchor text is necessary for search engines like Google to understand the context of the linked page. Because of this, SEO requires secure anchor texts that are well-written, organic, and devoid of keyword stuffing.

What is Link Text (Anchor Text)?

Anchor text is the visible and clickable text in a hyperlink. For example:

• Good anchor text: Read our guide on SEO tips in Norway.
• Poor anchor text: Click here.

Example #1 lets both the user and the search engine know what they are in store for. The second is much less specific and helpful.

Google uses anchor text to get the context of the page linked. That’s why safe, good anchor texts (I mean, relevant, natural, and free from keyword stuffing) are so indispensable for SEO.

The Importance of Good Link Text for SEO

So, why is writing strong anchor text so important to your digital strategy?

1. Increases Relevance: It tells search engines what the linked-to page is about.
2. Enhances Rankings: Optimized anchor text means pages can rank for targeted keywords.
3. Better Reader Experience: No question about what you’re clicking on.
4. Supports Accessibility: Visually impaired users depend on a descriptive link text for read out by screen readers.
5. Builds Trust: Clean anchors are secure and not spammy to the users.

5 Tips for Good Link Texts and SEO Writing

1. Use Descriptive and Relevant Words

Anchor text should describe the page it links to. Rather than using the phrase, “read more,” tell what people can read about:

Do: Check out our SEO tips for companies in Norway.

Don’t: Here’s more information.

This is what makes your links valuable to readers and search engines.

2. Keep Anchor Text Natural

Over-optimized anchors with exact match keywords (e.g., “cheap SEO Norway best SEO Norway secure anchor texts”) are spammy and can get your site penalized by Google. Instead, weave keywords naturally:

Do: Get educated on how to securely name links.

Don’t: Anchor texts, SEO tips, Norway links.

3. Maintain Variation in Anchor Text

Search engines may consider it manipulative if every link uses the same words. Use a mix of:

• Exact-match keywords (secure anchor texts)
• Partial-match keywords (securing your anchor texts)
• Branded anchors (Sysinn SEO Guide)
• Generic anchors (find out, this post)

This variety makes your profile seem more natural and respectful.

4. Focus on User Intent

Consider what the user would expect to see when they click the link. If the anchor text reads “SEO Strategi Norway“, then your page should contain advice specifically aimed at the Norwegian market. Deceptive anchor text is likely to annoy users and erode trust.

5. Avoid Overlinking and Keyword Stuffing

Less is more. Never link every keyword on a page; it dilutes authority and irritates readers. Opt for whatever terms are most valuable, and then link only when that linking is truly useful for users.

Do: One solid anchor for each key idea.

Don’t: Many nonessential links to the same page.

Examples of Being Good and Bad in Anchor Textpressions

Anchor Text SEO: Top Stats & Findings (2025)

1. Impact of Exact-Match Anchor Texts

• In a large internal link study, pages with at least one exact-match anchor received at least five times more traffic than those without.

2. The Power of Anchor Text Variety

• A major study spanning 23 million internal links across 520,000 URLs found that greater anchor text variation correlates strongly with increased Google search traffic—more so than the sheer volume of links. 
• Specifically, anchor text variation was more predictive of rankings than the total number of incoming links. 

3. Anchor Text as a Ranking Signal

• Google includes the anchor text and its surrounding context among its ~200 ranking signals.
• Although anchor text alone isn’t the top factor, link distribution diversity (including varied anchor text) contributed around 3% to Google’s overall ranking algorithm in early 2025. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Anchor Texts

• Using only generic terms like “click here” or “this page”.
• Stuffing too many keywords in one link.
• Linking irrelevant pages just for SEO.
• Making links too long or too short (1 word or entire sentences).
• Ignoring accessibility (anchor text should make sense when read aloud).

Conclusion

Crafting great link text is more than just a technical SEO concern – it’s about bringing clarity, trust, and value to search engines and users alike. By adhering to these 5 SEO tips, let us know how the changes work out for your rankings and if you have other SEO tips we should add!

This way, whether your business is homegrown in Norway or if you want to reach international customers, tight anchor texts could mean the difference between your page being ignored and being found. Remember: A well-placed, well-written link isn’t only a way, it’s a promise.

FAQs

What is an example of safe anchor text for SEO?

A quality anchor text is well-written, non-promotional, and not stuffed with keywords. It’s a true mirror of the linked material, doing nothing to game search results.

How long should a strong anchor text be?

Ideally, 2 to 5 words. It should be long enough so the link is described, but short enough so it remains clear and natural.

Do I have to use keywords in anchor text?

Not always. Mixing exact-match, partial-match, branded, and LSI keywords to keep a natural link profile. SEO: Too much keywording is bad for your SEO.

Why does anchor text matter for SEO in Norway?

In a competitive market like Norway, both clear and optimized link texts make companies more visible in search engines and improve user experience and trust.

Do poor anchor texts cause ranking problems for my site(s)?

Yes. Spammy, irrelevant, or over-optimized anchor texts can trigger Google penalties and harm your website’s credibility.