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Description

Element name DC.Description
Element definition An account (brief textual description) of the content (and/or purpose) of the resource. Description may include but is not limited to: an abstract, table of contents, reference to a graphical representation of content or free text account of the content
Obligation Mandatory
Qualifiers  
Classification  
Guidelines
  • This tag is important because a number of search engines index it. Search engines often display text from this field to assist users select appropriate resources from search results.
  • It is useful for both textual and non textual resources (eg video clips, sound files, still images etc
If the suggested description on the metadata screen is unsuitable for the page construct one using the following guidelines:
  • Limit the description to about 250 characters. Search engines may not index more than this.
  • Provide a brief summary of the content of the resource. Use an abstract or structured description that may be available on the page.
  • Use full sentences, as the description is often used by search engines to present information to users to assist in their selection of appropriate resources from a set of search results.
  • Enrich the description with appropriate keywords and key phrases which can be indexed for searching.
  • Don't over repeat keywords/phrases in the description. This may be considered spam and the site could be penalized. The page may not be indexed by search engines.
Data entry Metatagger suggests description for editing by author
Example Description="Monash University leads the way with our international focus and long-standing commitment to quality teaching and learning, and innovative research."
Description="Monash University Library homepage. Major Australian academic library with multiple locations providing access to and details of large collections of print and electronic resources as well as services"

References

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