By Shad Super in Questions —

How Can the URL Inspection Tool Be Used to Submit a Page for Re-Indexing After Making Significant Updates?

Summary

The URL Inspection Tool in Google Search Console can be used to request re-indexing of a webpage after significant updates have been made. This process involves verifying the updated page, checking for any issues, and submitting a re-indexing request, ensuring that Google re-crawls and includes the latest version of the page in search results.

Using the URL Inspection Tool for Re-indexing

Step 1: Access Google Search Console

To begin, log in to your Google Search Console account. If you haven't already done so, you need to add and verify your website in Google Search Console. Instructions on how to do this can be found here [Verify Your Site, 2023].

Step 2: Enter the URL

In the Search Console interface, type or paste the URL of the page you've updated into the URL Inspection Tool located at the top of the dashboard. Press 'Enter' to initiate the inspection process. It is crucial that you enter the exact URL, including any trailing slashes or parameters.

Step 3: Inspect the URL

After entering the URL, the tool will retrieve the current indexed information about the page. This includes coverage data, last crawl date, mobile usability, and any detected issues. Review this information to ensure it matches your expectations. Additional details on how to interpret URL inspection results can be found here [URL Inspection Tool Documentation, 2023].

Step 4: Request Indexing

If the page needs re-indexing, click the 'Request Indexing' button. Google will then test the live URL to check if it can be indexed. This process includes fetching the page, executing it to see if it renders correctly, and checking if it meets Google's indexing guidelines. You can read more about the URL Inspection Tool's live test here [Test a Live URL, 2023].

Step 5: Confirm Submission

Once the live test is complete, assuming no errors are found, a message confirming that the request for re-indexing has been received will be displayed. This doesn't mean the page will be indexed immediately but rather added to Google's crawl queue. Processing time can vary from a few hours to several days.

Example Scenarios

Example: Updating Content

If you have updated a blog post with new information or modified the structure substantially, use the URL Inspection Tool to ensure that Google re-crawls the updated version and reflects the changes in search results.

Example: Fixing Technical Issues

After addressing issues such as broken links, mobile usability problems, or loading errors identified in the Search Console, requesting re-indexing helps ensure that Google recognizes and benefits from these fixes.

Best Practices for Indexing Requests

Submit Quality Content

Ensure the updated content adheres to Google's quality guidelines. Avoid doorway pages, auto-generated content, and unnecessary repetitive updates merely to prompt re-indexing. Consult Google’s quality guidelines here [Quality Guidelines, 2023].

Monitor Indexing Status

Regularly check the 'Coverage' report in Google Search Console to monitor the indexing status of your pages and identify any issues that might need your attention. More information on the Coverage report can be found here [Coverage Report, 2023].

References