What counts as an H1
Every <h1> element in the HTML the server sends, including ones hidden in headers or sliders. An H1 that only contains an image counts as its alt text. Headings added later by JavaScript aren't seen, the same way many crawlers don't see them on the first pass.
Good practice
- One H1 that says what the page is about, near the top of the content.
- Logo or site name wrapped in an H1 on every page is common in themes; it gives every page the same main heading.
- The H1 doesn't have to match the title word for word.
Frequently asked questions
Is it wrong to have more than one H1?
HTML allows it and Google says it can handle it. One clear H1 is still easier for readers, screen readers and crawlers to interpret, so the checker shows a warning, not a failure.
My H1 shows as empty but I can see it on the page
It's probably an image without alt text, text inserted by JavaScript, or a heading styled with CSS but not marked up as <h1>.