Be on target for the 2021 Google algorithm changes that reflect your core web vital score as found in the Google Search Console. In May 2020, Google announced that the index in 2021 would rank sites based on their approval scores of three important metrics.
The Metrics
LCP
Largest Contentful Paint – how long it takes the largest item in the viewport (screen to show). A measure of page speed. Shoot for 2.5 seconds.
FID
First Input Delay – how long it takes the site to respond to a user interaction. Shoot for less than 100 milliseconds.
CLS
Cumulative Layout Shift – visual stability. Does the page jump around when the user scrolls. Shoot for less than 0.1.
Read the full article here for a deeper understanding of these terms.
Google has also stated that the metrics should be in the “green zone” to earn special placement in the index, and that all metrics need to be green lighted for best performance.
What I have found is that although the developer’s Google pagespeed insights tool helps you to ID if you have a problem, solving where and what to update is a challenge.
It appears that developer extensions in the Chrome browser may be of help in identifying where the problems exist. As I uncover more details, I will share them here, but for now know that this algorithm update is coming and you may need assistance in fixing some site issues to see if you can “green-light” your website.
Other important updates this week:
It appears that there was a Google search algorithm update on or around February 17th.
Virginia is closer to creating privacy legislation that is similar but not exactly like the California privacy law that itself is similar to that used in the EU.
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