Google has officially confirmed rumours they it recently updated the search algorithm.
Some websites reported an improvement in rankings, while others have seen very little change, and some negative changes.
Over on Twitter, Google announced they “released an algorithm update, as we routinely do throughout the year.”
On Monday, we released a broad core algorithm update, as we routinely do throughout the year. For background and advice about these, see our tweet from last month: https://t.co/uPlEdSu6xp
— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) 20 April 2018
As you can see above, Google referred to a previous tweet with advice on this.
These tweets detail the background of the algorithm changes as follows:
Each day, Google usually releases one or more changes designed to improve our results. Some are focused around specific improvements. Some are broad changes. Last week, we released a broad core algorithm update. We do these routinely several times per year….
As with any update, some sites may note drops or gains. There’s nothing wrong with pages that may now perform less well. Instead, it’s that changes to our systems are benefiting pages that were previously under-rewarded….
There’s no “fix” for pages that may perform less well other than to remain focused on building great content. Over time, it may be that your content may rise relative to other pages.
Each day, Google usually releases one or more changes designed to improve our results. Some are focused around specific improvements. Some are broad changes. Last week, we released a broad core algorithm update. We do these routinely several times per year….
— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) 12 March 2018
So what does this all mean?
Well, it confirms Google has released a broad core algorithm update. It also shows they routinely do these updates several times a year, and gives good advice to webmasters in terms of SEO.
While Google explains there’s no real way to game the drops or gains, Google does recommend improving your site quality overall, and that the next time Google has an algorithm update your website should theoretically be rewarded with improved search rankings.
Google details that if a page had been previously under-rewarded, then they would benefit in the future from core updates.
