So I've been using underscores to separate my keywords, such as in image filenames ("this_is_an_example_filename"), because I thought this was good for SEO, or at least for identifying the image easier/better by SE's, but lately I've been seeing a lot of other sites using hyphens ("this-is-an-example-filename"). So, does it matter if you use underscores or hyphens, or are both methods pointless? Anyone?
Quite amazing this has never been brought up before in the 3 year history of DP... Or has it? Hint: scroll down and see 'similar threads'...
According to Matt Cutts using-dashes-is-better-than-underscores *usually* See similar threads below as the man said
View this thread from a week or so ago: http://forums.digitalpoint.com/showthread.php?t=46687 All the answers you want are right there.
Got it. Common consensus: hyphens is better for seo. Then what about this: When it comes to filenames, does making the filename all one word (multiple words joined, e.g. "thisisonelongfilename") hurt SEO or not? I've been doing it like this for the longest time. Never gave it much thought, and it just became a habit. Would hyphenating my filenames into "this-is-one-long-filename" benefit me, or does it not matter?
really depends on the search engine. I have noticed that google is picking up on URL keywords without spaces. As I always say, I rather not leave anything to chance.
From all the research I have found for SEO and development, the "-" is the symbol of a space within text. Although this should make it more valuable for the search engines, it does decrease the value in the eyes of the users. Meaning, its harder to type domains and files with hyphens in them. Good luck.
I agree, I use hyphens when I want to use a space between words. I'll use never use a formatlikethis.html for my files, but rather-like-this.html to give the search engines what they want.
I'm trying to figgure what would be best long term speaking, and I truly believe that the shorter the better.
IMO Best for long term is this: domain.com/category/sub-category/ cars.com/ferrari/360-spider/ - The URLs become non language/ technology specific - The URL should never need to change - Any sensible user/ visitor will be able to logically workout the address of a page they want without using the navigation. - Contains the right keywords for humans and spiders As I mentioned in your review thread md insert this: /%postname%-%post_id%/ into /wp-admin/options-permalink.php this page (then 666 htaccess) and presto perfect urls - You want to thank SEBasic for finding that one!