Google has recently rolled out updates to its core algorithm guidelines, aiming to provide more detailed recommendations for websites affected by these changes. The revised document, which was released alongside the August core update, includes several key additions and removals that website owners and SEO professionals should take note of.
New Sections Added
One of the most significant changes in the updated core algorithm guidelines is the inclusion of two new sections: “Check if there’s a traffic drop in Search Console” and “Assessing a large drop in position.” These new sections offer valuable insights and step-by-step instructions for website owners to navigate the aftermath of a core update.
The “Check if there’s a traffic drop in Search Console” section walks users through the process of using Search Console to determine whether a core update has impacted their website. This involves confirming the completion of the core update by checking the Search Status Dashboard, waiting at least a week after the update finishes before analyzing Search Console data, comparing search performance before and after the update to identify ranking changes, and analyzing different search types (web, image, video, news) separately.
The “Assessing a large drop in position” section provides guidance for websites that have experienced a significant decline in rankings following a core update. It recommends thoroughly evaluating the site’s content against Google’s quality guidelines, with a focus on the pages most impacted by the update.
Other Additions
In addition to the new sections mentioned above, the updated core algorithm guidelines also include a “Things to keep in mind when making changes” section. This section encourages website owners to prioritize substantive, user-centric improvements over quick fixes. It advises against content deletion as a first resort, suggesting that removing content may signal that it was created for search engines rather than users.
Another new section, “How long does it take to see an effect in Search results,” sets expectations for the time required to see ranking changes after making content improvements. Google notes that it may take several months for the full impact to be reflected, potentially requiring website owners to wait until a future core update.
The updated document concludes with a paragraph emphasizing that rankings can change even without website updates, as new content emerges on the web.
Removed Content
Several sections from the previous version of the core algorithm guidelines have been removed or replaced in the latest update. The paragraph stating that pages impacted by a core update “haven’t violated our spam policies” and the comparison of core updates to refreshing a movie list have been removed.
Additionally, the “Assessing your own content” section has been replaced by the new “Assessing a large drop in position” section. The “How long does it take to recover from a core update?” section no longer contains specific details about the timing and cadence of core updates and the factors influencing recovery time.
Shift In Tone & Focus
There is a noticeable shift in tone and focus with the latest update to Google’s core algorithm guidelines. While the previous guide explained the nature and purpose of core updates, the revised edition provides more actionable guidance for website owners and SEO professionals.
For example, the new sections related to Search Console offer clearer direction for identifying and addressing ranking drops. The updated guidelines emphasize the importance of substantive improvements over quick fixes and provide realistic timelines for measuring the impact of content changes.
In Summary
Here is a summary of the added and removed items in Google’s updated Core Algorithm Update Guidance:
Added:
– “Check if there’s a traffic drop in Search Console” section
– “Assessing a large drop in position” section
– “Things to keep in mind when making changes” section
– “How long does it take to see an effect in Search results” section
– Closing paragraph
Removed:
– A paragraph stating pages impacted by a core update “haven’t violated our spam policies”
– Comparison of core updates to refreshing a list of best movies
– “Assessing your own content” section
– Specific details about the timing of core updates and factors influencing recovery time
Overall, the updated core algorithm guidelines from Google provide valuable insights and actionable recommendations for website owners and SEO professionals to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of search engine optimization. By following these guidelines and staying informed about future updates, website owners can better position themselves for success in the competitive online marketplace.