Indexation is one of the most important things that can happen to website pages for organic traffic and good search rankings. Your pages are invisible without proper indexing on search engines, and you are losing possible visitors. Google provides multiple features and options for requesting and monitoring indexing in specific tools within Google Search Console. 

Below, we will discuss some of the possible ways, tools, and SEO best practices to help you ensure your website gets indexed efficiently. With Dotsden's insights, you will be able to regularly lead them through the indexing process and increase the visibility of your website.

Why Indexing Matters for Your Website?

Indexing is actually how you get your content visible to users on search engines. By indexing your pages with Google, you enable the search engine bots to recognize and distribute your pages for relevant search results. With Google Search Console, you can submit sitemap URLs, track your indexing status, or address any indexing issues that may impact your website performance on the search results.

Key Methods to Request Indexing

1. Using URL Inspection Tool

The URL Inspection Tool in Google Search Console allows you to request indexing for URLs directly, making it especially useful for time-sensitive, competitive content.

Steps to Request Indexing with URL Inspection Tool

1. Access Google Search Console and select your search console property.
2. In the left menu, click on the URL Inspection Tool.
3. Enter the URL you wish to inspect in the search bar at the top.
4. Click on “Request Indexing” to initiate the indexing process.
5. Google will queue the URL for search engine crawlers to analyze and index.

Dotsden recommends using this tool for individual pages with valuable content to improve visibility in search results.

2. Submitting an XML Sitemap

An XML sitemap helps Google understand your website’s structure by listing all sitemap URLs. It’s a crucial tool for websites with a large number of pages and improves the indexing of URLs.

Steps to Submit an XML Sitemap

1. Go to Google Search Console and open the Sitemaps option in the left menu.
2. Enter the URL of your XML sitemap and click on “Submit.”
3. Google will regularly review your sitemap to find new pages for indexing.

Ensure that your sitemap URLs are up-to-date and exclude any low-quality pages to optimize your crawl budget.

3. Internal Linking Strategy

Internal links are an effective way to help search engine bots discover new pages on your site. This method works well for indexing blog posts, product pages, and any valuable content you want Google to notice.

Best Practices for Internal Linking

• Use clear and descriptive anchor text for all internal linking.
• Link to newly created pages from relevant, high-traffic pages.
• Avoid nofollow links as they prevent search engine bots from following the link.

Integrating these internal links makes it easier for bots to crawl your site and helps in the indexing process.

4. Using the Indexing API for Instant Indexing

The Indexing API is designed to speed up indexing for pages that require quick visibility, such as job posting pages or time-sensitive, competitive content.

Steps to Use the Indexing API

1. Create an API project in Google Cloud and enable the Indexing API.
2. Obtain service account credentials and upload the ZIP file to your Google Search Console.
3. Use the API to submit batch indexing requests.

Note that the Indexing API is best suited for websites with dynamic or frequently updated content, such as news or job posting sites.

Addressing Common Indexing Issues

During the indexing process, you may encounter issues that can prevent pages from appearing in search results. Dotsden provides solutions for resolving some of the most common indexing issues.

1. Duplicate Content Issues

Duplicate content can confuse search engine bots and dilute your site’s search performance. To resolve this:

• Use the canonical version to indicate the preferred URL to Google.
• Avoid creating alternate versions of the same content without proper redirects.

2. Crawl Errors and Technical Issues

Crawl errors can result from server errors, noindex directives, or blocked resources. Here’s how to fix them:

• Check Server Issues in Google Search Console and resolve any issues in your .htaccess file if necessary.
• Remove noindex directives from pages you want indexed.

3. Low-quality or Thin Content

Google prioritizes quality content over pages with low-value-added content. Ensure that each page you want to be indexed contains relevant content and isn’t flagged as low-quality.

Tips for Maintaining Efficient Indexing

Efficient indexing requires a proactive approach to ensure all pages are consistently accessible to search engine crawlers.

• Update Your Sitemap Regularly

Ensure your XML sitemap reflects new and updated pages to maintain a seamless indexing process. This includes removing outdated or redundant pages.

• Monitor Indexing Status with Google Search Console

Regularly check the indexing status in the Search Console to identify and resolve any technical issues. Pay attention to any notifications under Manual Actions for pages flagged for low-quality pages.

• Utilizing Internal Links for Improved Crawlability

Effective internal linking not only boosts search rankings but also enhances Google’s ability to find and index your pages.

• Use SEO Plugins for CMS Management

Plugins like All-in-One SEO or Yoast SEO simplify technical SEO audits and provide tools to optimize your site’s indexing. These plugins can assist with title tags, meta descriptions, and internal links.