Are you new to blogging and drowning in weird terms like “SEO” and “backlinks”?
This easy guide will walk you through all the blogging jargon you actually need to know—no tech degree required.
Ready to sound like a pro? Let’s dive in!
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the key blogging terms that most beginners struggle with. And don’t worry—I’ll explain everything in plain English, with zero confusing tech-speak.
This guide is made especially for beginners. I’ll break down each term, why it matters, and how to use it—without making your brain hurt.
Stuck at any point? Just imagine me cheering you on from the sidelines. (Or, you know, Google it. That works too.)
Who Am I and Why Should You Listen to Me?
My name’s ZS, and I’ve been blogging since 2012. In that time, I’ve made every mistake possible—from picking a cringe-worthy blog name to publishing posts with embarrassing typos.
I know starting a blog feels overwhelming. That’s why I created this guide—so you can skip the confusion and get straight to the good stuff.
Whether you’re 16 or 60, you’ll understand these terms by the end. Pinky swear.
How This Guide Works
I’ve split this into 15 must-know blogging terms, explained in the simplest way possible.
Each term includes:
✅ What it means (in human words)
✅ Why it matters (so you don’t ignore it)
✅ Pro tips (from my own facepalm-worthy mistakes)
Let’s go!
1. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) – Your Blog’s Best Friend
What it is: The magic that helps Google find and love your blog.
Why it matters: No SEO = No readers. It’s that simple.
Pro tip: Use free tools like Ubersuggest to find keywords real people search for. (No, “my cat’s existential crisis” is not a good keyword.)
2. Keywords – The Secret to Getting Found
What it is: Words people type into Google (like “easy pancake recipe”).
Why it matters: Use the right ones, and Google sends traffic your way. Use the wrong ones, and… crickets.
Pro tip: Long-tail keywords (specific phrases) work best. “Gluten-free pancakes for beginners” beats just “pancakes.”
3. CMS (Content Management System) – Your Blog’s Brain
What it is: The platform where you build your blog (like WordPress or Squarespace).
Why it matters: Pick the wrong one, and you’ll want to throw your laptop.
Best options:
- WordPress (powerful but a bit clunky)
- Squarespace (easy but less flexible)
- Wix (pretty but not great for SEO)
4. Domain Name – Don’t Screw This Up
What it is: Your blog’s web address (like www.makemoneyblogging.com).
Why it matters: A bad domain is like a bad tattoo—hard to undo.
Pro tip: Keep it short, simple, and not “BloggyMcBlogFace.com.”
5. Hosting – Where Your Blog Lives Online
What it is: The service that stores your blog (so it’s not just sitting on your laptop).
Why it matters: No hosting = No blog. It’s like a car with no gas.
Best options: SiteGround, Hostinger or Bluehost (cheap but slower).
6. Bounce Rate – Why People Leave Your Blog
What it is: The % of visitors who leave after one page.
Why it matters: High bounce rate? Your content’s boring or slow.
Fix it: Write short paragraphs, add internal links, and speed up your site.
7. CTR (Click-Through Rate) – How to Get More Clicks
What it is: How often people click your link in Google.
Why it matters: Low CTR? Your title’s as exciting as plain toast.
Example:
- Bad: “10 Tips for Baking Bread.”
- Good: “This Bread Recipe Went Viral—Here’s Why.”
8. Backlinks – The Internet’s Word-of-Mouth
What it is: When other sites link to yours.
Why it matters: Google sees them as “votes” for your content.
Pro tip: Quality over quantity. One link from Forbes > 100 spammy links.
9. Meta Description – Your 150-Character Hook
What it is: The blurb under your title in Google results.
Why it matters: It’s your chance to say, “CLICK ME, I’M AWESOME!”
Pro tip: Write it like a text to a friend: “This post saved my plants—no joke.”
10. Affiliate Marketing – Get Paid for Recommending Stuff
What it is: Earning commissions when readers buy through your links.
Why it matters: Cha-ching! But only if you’re honest.
Best starter program: Amazon Associates (easy for beginners).
11. Alt Text – Google’s Blindfolded Guide
What it is: Descriptions for images (so Google “sees” them).
Why it matters: Helps SEO and makes your site accessible.
Example: Bad: “IMG_1234.jpg.” Good: “Golden retriever eating watermelon.”
12. CTA (Call-to-Action) – Tell Readers What to Do
What it is: A prompt like “Subscribe now” or “Download the guide.”
Why it matters: Without it, readers leave and forget you.
Pro tip: Use action words. “Grab your free checklist” > “Checklists here.”
13. Evergreen Content – Traffic That Never Dies
What it is: Posts that stay relevant forever (like “How to Tie a Tie”).
Why it matters: Keeps bringing in readers year after year.
Pro tip: Update it annually. “2023 Guide” → “2024 Guide.”
14. Plugins – Your Blog’s Superpowers
What it is: Add-ons that make your blog do cool things.
Why it matters: Want a contact form? SEO help? There’s a plugin for that.
Must-haves:
- Yoast SEO (optimizes posts)
- Akismet (blocks spam)
- MonsterInsights (tracks traffic)
15. Analytics – Your Blog’s Report Card
What it is: Data about your traffic and readers.
Why it matters: Without it, you’re blogging blindfolded.
Best tool: Google Analytics (free and essential).
Final Thoughts: You’re Ready to Blog Like a Pro!
See? Blogging terms aren’t so scary once someone explains them without the jargon.
Now that you know the basics, stop overthinking and start writing! Your first post won’t be perfect—and that’s okay.
Remember: Even the biggest bloggers started where you are now.