Google has updated its core algorithm guidance, offering more detailed advice on how to assess and respond to traffic declines. With the August core update, Google’s new documentation aims to help those affected better understand and address the changes.

What’s New in Google’s Core Update Guidance?

The updated guidance includes new sections with actionable steps for diagnosing and addressing issues related to core updates. Here’s what’s changed:

1. New Sections Added

Check if There’s a Traffic Drop in Search Console

This section guides users on how to use Google Search Console to determine if their site has been affected by a core update. It recommends waiting at least a week after the update’s completion before analysing data. The process involves:

Confirming the update’s completion via the Search Status Dashboard.

Comparing search performance before and after the update.

Analysing different search types (web, image, video, news) separately to pinpoint impact.

Assessing a Large Drop in Position

For sites experiencing a significant ranking drop, this section offers guidance on evaluating content against Google’s quality guidelines, focusing on user-centric improvements.

2. Other Additions

Things to Keep in Mind When Making Changes

This section emphasises substantive, user-focused improvements over quick fixes, suggesting content deletion only as a last resort.

How Long Does It Take to See an Effect in Search Results?

This section sets expectations on the time needed for content improvements to reflect in rankings, noting that it could take several months and might require waiting for a future core update.

What’s Been Removed?

Google has streamlined its guidance by removing or replacing certain sections:

Spam Policy Assurance: Removed the paragraph about pages not violating spam policies and the analogy comparing updates to refreshing a list of best films.

Assessing Your Own Content: Replaced with the more specific “Assessing a Large Drop in Position” section.

Recovery Timing Details: Removed details on the timing and cadence of core updates and recovery processes.

A Shift in Tone and Focus

Google’s revisions reflect a shift towards providing more practical, actionable advice. The new guide focuses on equipping website owners with the tools to respond effectively to ranking declines, making it more accessible for those who may not be SEO experts.

Key Takeaways

Here’s a summary of the key additions and removals in Google’s updated Core Algorithm Update Guidance:

Added:

Traffic Drop in Search Console: Instructions for using Search Console to identify ranking changes.

Large Drop in Position: Guidance for addressing significant ranking declines post-update.

Making Changes: Emphasis on user-centric improvements, with content deletion as a last resort.

Effect Timing: Expectations on the time required to see ranking changes after content improvements.

Removed:

Assurance regarding spam policies and analogies comparing core updates to film lists.

“Assessing Your Own Content” replaced by a more focused approach.

Specific details on the timing of core updates and recovery processes.

Google’s updated guidance on core algorithm updates highlights the importance of refining website content to align with user needs. By following the new instructions, website owners can better diagnose the impact of core updates and make the necessary adjustments to maintain or improve their search rankings. Whether you are looking to make a start on a marketing campaign or are looking for a push in the right direction with an exsisting campaign, get in touch with the number one SEO agency in Essex, today.