P2Issue #23
Non Sequnetial
❓ What does it mean?
❓ What does it mean?
Non-sequential headings occur when heading tags (<h1>, <h2>, <h3>, etc.) are used out of order, skipping levels or creating an illogical hierarchy.
Example: Jumping from <h1> → <h3> without an <h2> in between.
🚨 Why is it important for SEO?
🚨 Why is it bad for SEO?
Accessibility Issues → Screen readers and assistive technologies rely on proper heading hierarchy to help users navigate a page.
Poor Content Structure → Search engines use headings to understand content hierarchy. Non-sequential headings confuse bots.
Negative SEO Signals → Incorrect heading order may weaken keyword emphasis and topical relevance.
User Experience Impact → Visitors scanning the page may struggle to follow the flow of content.
✅ How to Fix It
✅ How to Fix It
Follow Logical Heading Order
Always start with one <h1> (main topic).
Use <h2> for sections, <h3> for subsections, etc.
❌ Bad Example (Non-Sequential):
<h1>Best Laptops 2025</h1>
<h3>Top Brands</h3> <!-- Skips H2 -->
<h4>Apple</h4>
✅ Good Example (Sequential):
<h1>Best Laptops 2025</h1>
<h2>Top Brands</h2>
<h3>Apple</h3>
Avoid Skipping Levels
Do not jump from <h1> → <h4> directly.
If a level isn’t needed, still keep hierarchy consistent.
Use Headings for Structure, Not Styling
Don’t use <h3> just because it looks smaller—style headings with CSS instead.
Audit with Tools
Use Lighthouse, Screaming Frog, or Axe DevTools to check heading structure.
❌ Bad Example
📌 Example
❌ Bad (Non-Sequential):
<h1>Healthy Recipes</h1>
<h3>Breakfast Ideas</h3>
<h5>Oatmeal</h5>
✅ Good Example
✅ Good (Sequential):
<h1>Healthy Recipes</h1>
<h2>Breakfast Ideas</h2>
<h3>Oatmeal</h3>
⚡ Result
⚡ Result
Improved crawlability → Google better understands content hierarchy.
Better accessibility → Screen readers provide clear navigation.
Enhanced user experience → Visitors scan content more easily.
Stronger SEO signals → Headings reinforce keyword context in the right order.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What are non-sequential headings?
Non-sequential headings occur when heading tags are used out of order, skipping levels or creating an illogical hierarchy.
How do non-sequential headings affect SEO?
They can lead to accessibility issues, poor content structure, negative SEO signals, and a negative impact on user experience.
How can I fix issues caused by non-sequential headings?
You can fix them by following a logical heading order, avoiding skipping levels, using headings for structure rather than styling, and auditing with tools.
Why is it important to maintain a proper heading hierarchy?
Maintaining a proper heading hierarchy improves crawlability, enhances accessibility, provides a better user experience, and strengthens SEO signals.