(Lesson 3) Page Slugs & Handles, Clean URLs That Age Well
Michael MitchellHow-To & More · SEO Naming
Page Slugs & Handles, Clean URLs That Age Well
Build simple, readable URLs that strengthen your entire SEO strategy
Your URL handle isn't just a link — it's a long-term identity. Google uses it to understand your page, anchor your SEO, and connect related content across your site.
What a URL Handle Actually Does
A URL handle (slug) is the part that comes after the folder:
/blogs/how-to-and-more/clean-url-structure
- Tells Google what the page is about
- Makes the link readable
- Creates long-term stability
- Supports your interlinking strategy
The Golden Rule: Clean, Short, Predictable
- Lowercase only
- Hyphens instead of spaces
- No filler words
- No dates or version numbers
Bad Examples
- /blogs/how-to-and-more/this-is-a-really-long-title-about-seo-2024-final
- /products/product-873641
Good Examples
- /blogs/how-to-and-more/alt-text-vs-filenames
- /products/gothic-rose-phone-case
Slug Formula
Topic Keyword + Specific Identifier
- gothic-rose-phone-case
- basic-seo-checklist
- naming-system-overview
Never Change Published Slugs
If you must, use a 301 redirect and update internal links.
How Slugs Fit Into Your SEO System
Slugs should match your titles, metadata, filenames, and internal links. This creates strong semantic alignment.
Do This Now (1 Minute)
- Check one old slug.
- Ask: “Does this clearly describe what's on the page?”
In Simple Terms
Clean slugs are quiet SEO power — readable, predictable, and trustworthy.
Next: Image Naming Structure (Lesson 4)
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