by Alyssa Ast
Just about everywhere you look, you will see hashtags (#) used. They are the latest SEO trend to hit the web. Hashtags are highly effective with Twitter because they index status updates. The same is being said with their use on Facebook, but should you use hashtags in URLs? They are effective else where, so why not right? Well, truthfully, hashtags really don't benefit URLs at all, unless you're using javascript. Plus, search engines rarely pay attention to any information in a URL that has been placed after the hashtag.
Although hastags in URLs don't generally serve any purpose, there are times they can be beneficial. For example, if you have duplicate URLs for content or website pages, a hashtag will e beneficial.
If your URLs are htttp://www.alyssaast.com/services, one could be changed to http://www.alyssast.com/services#prices
This would take care of the duplicate URL and will help with indexing both pages.
Does it hurt to use hashtags? Not necessarily. You can use them if you wish and won't be penalized; however, don't expect drastic results if you do use them.
Do you use hashtags in URLS? What has your experience been like with the use of them?
