How to Use Google Search Console: A Beginner’s Guide

What is the google search console? 

Google Search Console, formerly known as Google Webmaster Tools, is a free web service provided by Google. It empowers webmasters to monitor and optimise their websites’ performance and visibility on Google Search. With Search Console, you can: 

  • Measure Search Traffic: Analyse impressions, clicks, and position for specific queries. 
  • Submit Sitemaps: Ensure Google crawls your site efficiently. 
  • Receive Alerts: Get notified about issues affecting your site. 

 

Verify Site Ownership

Before you start, ensure you have a Google account. Then, open Search Console and add your website. Verification confirms your ownership and grants access to valuable data.

Understand the Dashboard

The overview provides essential insights: 

  • Search Analytics: Discover which queries bring users to your site. Analyse impressions, clicks, and position on Google Search. 
  • Index Coverage: Review indexed pages and identify any issues.

 

Optimise Your Content

Here are a few ways your site can be optimised with google dev tools: 

  • Improve Rankings for Underperforming Keywords: Identify keywords where your site ranks below positions one or two. Optimise these pages to boost their rankings. 
  • Optimise Pages with High Keyword Rankings but Low Click-Through Rate (CTR): If a page ranks well but doesn’t get many clicks, work on improving its CTR by refining meta descriptions, titles, and content. 
  • Fix Sitemap Issues: Ensure your sitemap is correctly set up and submitted in Search Console. A well-structured sitemap helps search engines understand your site’s content. 
  • Analyse Backlinks: Discover which content types and topics attract the most backlinks. Use this information to create more link-worthy content. 
  • Internal Linking: Find pages that need more internal links or those that can be pruned. Proper internal linking improves site navigation and helps distribute link equity. 
  • Update Declining Pages: Identify pages that are losing organic traffic. Update their content, improve user experience, and address any technical issues. 

 

Submit Sitemaps

Submit your sitemap to Google. This ensures all your pages are crawled and indexed promptly. You can submit individual URLs too.

Monitor Alerts

Google alerts you about issues affecting your site. Fix them promptly to maintain a healthy site.

Use the URL Inspection Tool

This tool provides detailed information about your pages directly from Google’s index. Check crawl status, index status, and any issues. 

Conclusion 

Google Search Console is a must-have for website owners. Regularly monitor your site’s performance, fix issues, and optimise content. With Search Console, your site can shine in Google Search results! 

Remember, continuous monitoring and adjustments are key to success. Happy optimising!  

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