If you're new to search engine optimization, it may seem like a daunting task. Although search engine optimization isn't easy, it is simple if you take the time to learn a few simple principles.

1. Make sure your site is search engine friendly.

Although this may sound redundant, it really isn't. If you are using HTML to build your website, you want to use the proper opening and closing tags. Don't include any unecessary tags in your code.

If you are using a content management script, make sure the script you are using is search engine friendly. Although the search engines have gotten smarter, they still have problems indexing some content. Most scripts will mention whether or not they are search engine friendly, so these are the types of scripts you need to look for.

2. Make sure you include the metatags and descriptions.

Although metatags and descriptions don't count for much in terms of indexing your pages, the search engines still use them. Search engines will look at the content of your pages to make sure the descriptions and tags match.

Don't waste your time writing descriptions or using tags that don't match. Write descriptions searchers will find useful.

3. Use the right keywords.

Start with the topic of your website to help you choose keywords. Use a keyword research tool to find other keywords. The more words in a keyword phrase, the more relevant it will be.

Shorter keyword phrases may be more appealing because they're popular. However, the more relevant your keywords are, the more likely you are to get searchers to take action.

4. Create lots of content related to your topic.

If you want to increase your Google Page Rank, as well as keep your readers coming back, create new content for your website. There are many types of content you can create.

Include product reviews, articles, a FAQ, videos, and other content. Make sure the content is relevant for your readers, and make sure the content is relevant to the topic of your website. If you use video or some other visual content, write a short commentary. Search engines don't spider video or images.

5. Check your display and load time.

To check your website, use the two most popular browsers: Internet Explorer and Firefox. This will help you find potential problems in your HTML. Checking the load time simply helps you find out if your site is loading too slow. This can become a problem for both readers and the search engines.

Since many are still on dial up, you need a fast loading site. Otherwise, your visitors may just click away.