Marketing · business glossary
What is SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)?
By Shivam Bhandari · Reviewed 31 October 2026 · How we write
definition
The practice of improving a website so it ranks higher in search results for relevant terms, driving free traffic over time.
SEO (search engine optimisation) explained
SEO is the practice of improving a website so it ranks higher in search engines like Google for searches your customers make.
example
A bakery creating a helpful page for ‘eggless birthday cake in Chandigarh’ can appear when local customers search that phrase.
why it matters
Search traffic is high-intent and keeps arriving without paying for each click.
common mistake
Stuffing keywords instead of creating genuinely useful pages.
Frequently asked questions
What is SEO (search engine optimisation)?
The practice of improving a website so it ranks higher in search results for relevant terms, driving free traffic over time. SEO is the practice of improving a website so it ranks higher in search engines like Google for searches your customers make.
Why does SEO (search engine optimisation) matter?
Search traffic is high-intent and keeps arriving without paying for each click.
What is a common mistake with SEO (search engine optimisation)?
Stuffing keywords instead of creating genuinely useful pages.
Related terms
Content marketing
Attracting and retaining customers by consistently publishing genuinely useful or entertaining content, rather than direct advertising.
Organic reach
The number of people who see your content without any paid promotion behind it.
Target audience
The specific group of people a product or message is designed for, defined by shared needs, behaviour, or characteristics.