Here are some Important On Page Optimization Factors
To achieve a top ranking on Google for your chosen keyword(s), you must first learn how to optimize your webpage. This is the first, most important step to take towards landing on the first page of Google. Here is a checklist of things that you should always do to make sure that your page is fully optimized:

• Domain Name: the keyword(s) that your are targeting should be in your url.
• Home Title Tag: your main keyword should show up twice here, with a variation of that keyword (eg: lose weight and weight loss).
• H1, H2, & H3 Tags: these tags are very important(especially <H1>), and should always contain your keyword.
• Keyword Location Within Text: try to place each your keyword near the beginning of the first sentence of each paragraph (maintaining at least 100 words between paragraphs).
• Keyword Density: you should aim for a density of 3% for each keyword that you're targeting.
• Use Your Keywords as Anchor Text on your page: link to an internal page on your site, and then link to an authority site (eg: wikipedia) that is related to your keyword. Always remember to use the "No Follow" tag (rel="nofollow") when linking to an external site.
• Images: use the "alt tag" and rename your images to your chosen keywords.
• Decorate Your Keywords: bold, italicise, or underline your keyword at least one time.
• Google Loves Unique Content: your post should be between 850-1000 words and be well structured around your main keywords.

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Bernard

This whole thread is pure spam/crap

John,

Actually the second post does hit most of the key elements on OnPage seo. But it lacks the easy part, if someone does not know what those are, where do they start?

I agree, a most realistic approach is needed for someone who doesnt understand seo or website design at all.

This is probably the best reading available for a SEO beginner:
Official Google Webmaster Central Blog: Google's SEO Starter Guide

100% free.

strong first response