Remember the old days of SEO? You could rank a page just by stuffing keywords and adding links like candy. But things have changed. Search engines are smarter. And now, internal anchor text plays an even bigger role in how pages rank and how visitors move through your site.
Let’s dive into the new rules of internal anchor text. And don’t worry — we’ll keep it simple and sprinkle in some fun.
What Is Internal Anchor Text?
Before we jump into the rules, let’s do a quick refresher.
Internal anchor text is the clickable text in a link that sends users to another page on the same website.
For example, if you run a pet blog and link the words “best dog food” to another blog post, that’s internal anchor text.
It tells both users and search engines what the linked page is all about.
So, What’s New With Internal Anchor Text?
The basics are still the same. But with smarter algorithms and new SEO strategies, internal anchor text now needs more intent, context, and clarity.
Let’s break down the new rules that every site owner should follow:
1. Be Descriptive (But Natural)
Your anchor text should describe what the next page is about. But it still has to flow like a normal sentence.
Don’t try to stuff in unnatural phrases just to match a keyword.
- Good: Learn more about choosing the right running shoes.
- Not so good: Click here for choosing the right running shoes.
Google likes anchor text that provides real info to users. If it’s vague or generic, you lose that SEO boost.
2. Mix Up Your Anchor Text
If every link to your “About Us” page says exactly “About Us,” that’s boring — and not great for search engines.
Try using different words that still make sense:
This tells search engines that your page is relevant to all of those phrases. And it keeps your site more readable.
3. Don’t Force Keywords Everywhere
Yes, keywords are important. But overloading your anchor text with them? Big mistake.
Google can smell keyword stuffing a mile away.
Instead, focus on clarity and logic. The keywords should fit naturally in the sentence, not feel jammed in.
Your readers will thank you. The algorithms will reward you.
4. Improve the User Journey
Internal linking should not JUST be about SEO. It should also help users find their way around your site.
Think of your anchor text like street signs. You don’t want to lead people into dead ends or confusing alleys.
Each link should answer the question: “Where would someone naturally want to go next?”
If someone is reading about beginner yoga poses, link to a page that shows them more poses or explains the benefits of yoga. Logical next steps = happy users.
5. Use Context Clues Around the Anchor
Google doesn’t just look at the anchor text. It also looks at the words around it.
So if your sentence is:
“To boost your cardio, check out our guide on interval training tips.”
…Google learns even more from the keywords “cardio” and “guide.” This helps affirm what the linked page is about.
The content surrounding your links adds rich meaning. Use it wisely.
6. Keep Paragraphs Clean and Readable
Walls of underlined, linked text are scary.
Use internal links thoughtfully. Don’t turn every other phrase into a hyperlink — it makes your content feel chaotic.
Ideally, one or two links per 100-200 words is a nice balance.
7. Link to High-Priority Pages More Often
Want something to rank? Then link to it!
Put those links on pages that already get traffic. This gives your priority pages a stronger internal boost.
[p ai-img]content strategy, SEO boost, internal structure[/ai-img]
It’s like saying to Google, “Hey! This page is important!”
8. Use Breadcrumbs and Niche Clusters
Modern websites organize content in clusters. A main “pillar” page links to smaller, related “cluster” pages — and vice versa.
This is great for internal anchor text because:
- You create lots of relevant, contextual links
- You guide users deeper into related topics
- You make your site structure clearer to search engines
This kind of deep linking makes your site feel like a well-organized library. One page leads logically to the next.
9. Enrich Media Links With Context
Linking to videos, infographics, or downloadable PDFs? Don’t just write “Click for video.”
Instead, use descriptive anchor text like:
This works better for users AND helps that content rank in search too.
10. Monitor Click Performance
You’ve added all these smart anchor links — great! Now it’s time to track how they perform.
Use tools like Google Search Console or heatmaps to see where people are clicking.
If certain links never get clicked, maybe the text isn’t clear or attractive enough.
Get that data. Make the fixes. Grow smarter.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Repeating Links on the Same Page
If two anchor texts go to the same place — pick the stronger one and ditch the duplicate.
This avoids confusion for search engines and keeps your content cleaner.
One clear link is better than five sloppy ones.
Wrapping It All Up!
So now you know — anchor text isn’t just about highlighting words with blue lines.
It’s about guiding users, structuring your content, and giving Google a treasure map to follow.
Let’s review the golden rules:
- Be descriptive and clear
- Use natural, varied wording
- Help users find the next step
- Support your site structure with smart linking
- Measure what works, improve what doesn’t
The power of internal linking is HUGE — especially when your anchor text is done right.
So go ahead. Start linking. But now, do it with style.
Your visitors will enjoy the ride — and your rankings just might soar.
