Do you want to get a better understanding of how Google rates its search results, and how you can align your content approach with Google’s key discovery parameters?
This week, the search giant has published an updated version of its ‘How Search Works’ website, which includes a range of insights and links to provide more information about its evolving rating algorithms ongoing, which may help you better understand what you should be doing to match its systems.
The small site covers all aspects of Google’s search process, and although aimed at general readers, not specifically SEO professionals, it helps provide more insight into Google’s ranking processes, and what it looks for in web content.
Google includes a basic overview of each rating element, including, for example, why it uses automated keyword matching:
“Every day, fifteen per cent of searches are unprecedented, so we use automated systems to get the most relevant and reliable information we can find. help you find what you’re looking for, these systems consider many factors, including the words in your query, page content, source expertise, and your language and location. “
The site also includes basic tips on using keywords, and how its algorithms rate keyword relevance based on each query:
“For example, with web pages, if those keywords appear on the page, or they appear in the headings or body of the text, the information may be more relevant.”
It also outlines the basics of backlinks, and how Google factors in the value of links in listing:
“One of the many factors we use to help determine this is to understand whether other prominent websites link or refer to the content. This has often proven to be a good sign of good trust in the information. “
It also includes notes on Google’s more recent search updates, including its Vitals Web Core change it introduced back in May.
The main information, as noted, is fairly surface level, it does not go into the more technical aspects of SEO optimization. But it does provide good insights into the key elements of search ranking, and what you should consider in your SEO approach.
But as anyone who’s ever tried to stay on top of SEO knows, that information can change quickly. In fact, Google reports that it made over 4,500 search ‘enhancements’ in 2020 alone.
If you’re looking for more specific SEO insights, Google also has its Search Central platform, which provides more detailed expert advice from experienced webmasters, along with educational videos, web development best practices, and the like.
But if you need a starting point, the updated ‘How Search Works’ website is a solid overview, which could help improve your understanding of each element.
You can check out the updated ‘How Search Works’ website here.
