Meta descriptions are those concise explanations that appear on search engine result pages (SERPs). They are called preview snippets and provide vital information. They appear below the blue link on Google search and words that match a search query are pulled out in bold. They are not important to search ranking in Google but extremely important to gain user clicks from SERPs. Some believe that Yahoo and Bing still give certain weight to meta descriptions. They are the work of creative Webmasters and display the ability to catch those who are looking for certain Websites.
Writing meta descriptions need to follow certain rules in order to be successful. They can be written in any length but search engines generally limit the length to 156 characters. Therefore, it is better to keep them between 150 to 160 characters. They are written user in mind and therefore, becomes an important part of search marketing. A successful meta description should include search terms that customers use, convey a brand message, should be a compelling marketing tag line, lure customers with discounts and other offers, and unique to the contents of the page. Keep in mind that this is the first touch of a user to your brand.