There are literally thousands of references on the internet regarding Search Engine Optimization, many of which repeat the same things, and many of which differen from one another.

There is no black and white when it comes to Search Engine Optimization - all techniques that "work" to get you better placement in search engine result listings are generally "discovered" by trial and error. Most search engines do not reveal their formulas for determining search engine placement, nor do they explain in great detail what things you can do to get better placement. This is why the SEO industry is booming presently.

Some sites that have generic, basic information that is highly valuable to webmasters, especially those who are not very familiar with SEO, I am linking here. Please note that we have no control over the content of these sites, nor can we guarantee the accuracy of the information found on the related sites. At the time of this posting, we agree with most of the basic steps suggested through the following external links, and as a result we are providing those links here as a reference for our members. As with anything, do your homework before making any drastic changes.

• SEO 101 - Beginner's Guide to SEO: This site has a great starter's guide to Search Engine Optimization, covering many different areas of concern including meta tags, page titles, keyword placement, keyword density, headers, internal and external linking, sitemaps and more. While the author does not go into extensive detail, the content is very direct and informative.
  
• Search Engine Journal: This is essentially a blog from several different SEO experts who make suggestions and post findings in the world of search engine optimization. The content constantly evolves, and as new tips are discovered or refined, they are posted by the bloggers - a great resource for new news in the world of SEO.
  
• Basics of search engine optimization: This blog post goes into some detail about a few of the common seo subjects, including page titles, keyword usage and spelling, content, certain html tips, and other beginner's steps. The content of the article is very informative and to the point.
  
• About.com - Search Engine Optimization: General, common SEO tips, they have some good links at the bottom of their articles, though note most of the information can be found (and in greater detail) in some of the other links provided.
  
• The Basics of Search Engine Optimization: Another blog post about SEO basics. This page is very easy to read and follow, and is written by a human for humans, with some of the fancy words and such ommitted.
  
• IBM developerWorks: SEO: IBM gives their take and some advice on SEO for large sites and corporations. Most of this information is more technical and specific than in some of the other articles, but if your site is heavily SEO'd already and you're just looking for the next steps to investigate, you may find some of the information in this 4-part series useful.
  
• Matt Cutts Blog: Matt Cutts is considered one of the leading SEO experts, and his blog is referenced regularly when discussing SEO. His information is usually highly specific, and often mostly "news" type postings, but any SEO information found in his blog should be considered (at least relatively, when compared to other sites) authoritve and accurate.
  
• Sitepoint SEO FAQ: Keeping in mind this particular topic is user-submitted and updated, there is a lot of good information here, and a lot of in-depth discussion about specific SEO points made. A good read if you want a basic understanding of common myths, true tips, and general SEO knowledge.

There are dozens and dozens of others, and we urge members to contribute their favorite SEO sites by replying to this topic with links and a short description about the sites. This a great members-helping-members opportunity, for sure.

Also, remember (disclaimer): As with any SEO findings on the net, however, you should always do your research and remember you are taking advice from strangers, and doing so at your own risk.