Indexing
Definition
The process where Google adds your page to its searchable database after crawling it. Only indexed pages can appear in search results.
What is Indexing?
After Google crawls a page, it decides whether to add it to its index – the massive database of web pages that Google searches through when you make a query. If a page isn't indexed, it won't appear in search results.
Crawling vs Indexing
- Crawling: Google visits and reads your page
- Indexing: Google adds your page to its searchable database
Google crawls far more pages than it indexes. Just because Google visited doesn't mean it kept the page.
Why Pages Don't Get Indexed
Low Quality Content
Thin, duplicate, or unhelpful content often isn't indexed.
Noindex Tag
A meta tag telling Google not to index the page (sometimes added by mistake).
Duplicate Content
Very similar to another page, so Google only indexes one.
New Site
New websites take time to build trust and get pages indexed.
Technical Issues
Errors preventing Google from properly processing the page.
Checking Index Status
In Google Search Console:
- Use the URL Inspection tool
- Paste your page URL
- See if it's indexed and any issues
Requesting Indexing
For new or updated pages, use Google Search Console's "Request Indexing" feature. It's not instant, but it speeds things up.
The Bottom Line
Creating a page doesn't mean Google will show it. You need to ensure your content is high-quality, crawlable, and worth indexing.