What exactly is search engine optimization? For that matter, what exactly is a search engine?

Search engines are sites like Google, AOL, MSN or Yahoo where searches for information on the Internet are conducted. Searches are conducted by typing keywords or key phrases into the search box and then reviewing the results. To see a list and try searches on some of the major search engines go to www.freewebsearch.com.

Search engine optimization is the process of getting a website ranked in the top results under certain keywords. For example, if you own a business that sells shower heads in Croyden, you would probably want to rank well when a searcher typed in "shower heads croyden" in the keyword box. If you run a charity that provides international aid to hungry children, you may want to be in the top ten results when a searcher typed in "children's charities" or "international charity."