Learn SEO – Basic SEO Training
by Scott Allen - June 8, 2007
Filed Under SEO
I’ve been involved in a lot of forums where I see many frustrated newbies trying to start the process of learning SEO. Those who are new to search engine optimization can have a very difficult time without some guidance. After gaining some experience, improving one’s skills is a less daunting task because the foundation is there, and it’s easier to at least know what questions to ask. Before that though, it can be a bit overwhelming for many.
I’ve put together a collection of non-intimidating resources for newbies and those desiring to learn SEO that have little or no prior experience. The key is to start with basic principles that are easy to wrap your head around. Then you can go deeper into each area, and build on what you know. My recommendation is to take it in baby steps, unless you’re ready for a more aggressive pace. If you learn all the material contained in these references, you will have a solid foundation of basic SEO knowledge.
I’ve broken this guide into sections, so you can jump right into the section that fits your needs. Many of you won’t have incredible amounts of time to invest into learning SEO, but you do need to improve your rankings. You might be a one-person operation and are doing this yourself. Section 1 is for you. These are short, easy-to-digest references. Those of you who wish to invest more time may wish to skip to Sections 2 or 3. These will take a bit longer to read and digest, but are more in-depth and will give you a better understanding of SEO principles.
Section 1 – Quick SEO Training – Beginner Level
- Effective SEO – The V7N Way | V7N Forums
- Must use this SEO tips! | SEO Chat
- GaryTheScubaGuy’s SEO Checklist | SEO Chat
- Top 12 SEO tips for 2007 | Stickyeyes
- Best Practices in SEO | DevShed
- The SEO Routine | SEOmoz
- SEO Cheat Sheet | SEOmoz
- SEO Starter Guide | Google
Section 2 – Comprehensive SEO Training – Beginner Level
- The Beginner’s Guide to Search Engine Optimization
This is a great guide for those new to SEO. It is thorough and covers all the basics. This is a bit longer than the references listed in the previous section, but it will definitely be worth your time. Also available in downloadable Word or OpenOffice documents.
Section 3 – Comprehensive SEO Training – Beginner to Intermediate Level
- SEO Book
Aaron Wall has written a very comprehensive book on SEO. It will take some time to read, but the time invested will be well worth it. This book will take you from Beginner to Intermediate in no time. It’s reasonably priced and comes with a no-hassle money back guarantee, so if you aren’t satisfied, he’ll give you a full refund. SEO Book is considered the standard book on Search Engine Optimization. - SEOmoz Articles
A great library of articles that range from beginner to advanced SEO topics. Highly recommended.
- Search Engine Ranking Factors
SEOmoz has put together an essential list of Search Engine Ranking factors by interviewing expert SEO’s. If you really want to understand the importance and weighting of various SEO elements, then spend some time reading this.
Section 5 – Where to Go From Here
The next step is to become involved in the SEO community. One great way to do this is to become involved in forums, where you can get to know others and ask questions as you test out your new skills. You may also want to go to search engine marketing and webmaster conferences like SES, SMX and PubCon.
Section 6 – Becoming an Advanced SEO
To become an advanced SEO, you will need to master Search Engine Optimization principles by putting them into practice, making your own mistakes and gaining experience. Give yourself some time, keep learning, network, and be patient, as this will take a few years. If you are persistent, and determined, you can do it.
UPDATE 2009/01/05:
Added Google’s SEO Starter Guide to Section 1.
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Really nice post Scott. Thanks for sharing your experiences!
Thanks for the compilation. There’s many SEO guides out there but a lot of them get ahead of themselves and it gets too heavy too quickly. Your list allows new SEO initiates to take it one step at a time.
One thing I can add is that the best linkbuilding strategy is one that uses HIGH QUALITY content. Use original content that is designed from the ground up to get syndicated and discussed by other websites. Focus on two key human emotions–greed/love and fear. I employ this in my content and it works like a charm.
Anyway, thanks for the great entry!
You’re very welcome. I’m glad you found the information useful. :)
I agree, the best link building ALWAYS starts with quality content. Excellent suggestions. I agree, because whenever you can evoke an emotion from someone who is viewing your work, whether a book, blog, web site, or visual design, they will engage, and it will mean more to them. Another good tactic is to help the viewer/reader solve a problem. Simple and practical, but it works.
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