Google’s Martin Splitt recently shared valuable insights on diagnosing and resolving website indexing issues potentially caused by JavaScript. Presented in a Search Norwich video, Splitt’s advice is particularly useful for SEOs and developers, even those without extensive JavaScript expertise. Contrary to popular belief, JavaScript itself is rarely the root cause of such issues; instead, misimplementation or other factors are often at fault. This guide summarizes key takeaways to help debug and address these challenges effectively.

JavaScript: Rarely the Culprit of SEO Issues

Splitt emphasized that JavaScript is seldom the actual cause of indexing problems. Instead, confirmation bias—where evidence is interpreted to fit a preconceived notion—often leads to inaccurate diagnoses. For instance, many SEOs suspect JavaScript to be the issue, only to discover that a different problem is at play. Splitt noted that in hundreds of cases brought to his attention annually, only one was genuinely linked to a JavaScript bug.

Common Misconceptions

• Misuse of JavaScript: Issues often arise from how JavaScript is implemented rather than flaws in JavaScript itself. Incorrect configuration or improper coding practices are frequent culprits.
• Misinterpreted Errors: Errors flagged in the JavaScript console aren’t always directly related to JavaScript itself. They could stem from blocked resources or server-side issues.
• Blaming Google: Small or niche websites sometimes claim that Google bugs are causing issues. However, these claims rarely hold up, as such bugs would likely affect a much broader range of websites.

Confirmation Bias in Debugging

Splitt described how confirmation bias often drives SEOs to incorrectly blame JavaScript. SEOs may look for evidence to support their preconceived assumptions, ignoring other possibilities. This flawed approach wastes time and resources that could be better spent addressing the real issues.

Tools to Diagnose JavaScript-Related Indexing Issues

Splitt recommends leveraging specific tools to debug and understand how Google interacts with a webpage. These tools can help identify whether JavaScript is genuinely causing problems or if the issue lies elsewhere.

1. Google Search Console’s URL Inspection Tool

The URL Inspection Tool is one of the most powerful resources for identifying indexing issues. It provides insights into how Google crawls and renders a webpage, highlighting:

• The rendered version of the page.
• Indexing status and errors.
• Missing resources or blocked content.

Using this tool, SEOs can determine whether JavaScript is playing a role in rendering issues or if other factors, such as Robots.txt restrictions, are involved.

2. Google Rich Results Test

This tool evaluates structured data and shows how Google interprets the content for enhanced search features, such as rich snippets. If JavaScript affects structured data, the Rich Results Test will highlight inconsistencies or errors, making it easier to pinpoint the source of the problem.

3. Chrome DevTools

Chrome’s DevTools is an indispensable resource for JavaScript debugging. Key features include:

• JavaScript Console Messages: Displays errors and warnings related to JavaScript execution.
• Network Activity: Shows which resources were successfully loaded and which failed.
• Rendering Insights: Highlights any issues in how the page renders, including blocked APIs or incomplete resources.

By combining these tools, SEOs can build a comprehensive understanding of how Google interacts with their webpages, enabling more accurate diagnoses and targeted fixes.

Debugging Rendering Issues

Understanding Google’s Rendering Process

Rendering involves Googlebot downloading webpage resources—such as fonts, CSS, and JavaScript—to create a fully functional version of the page. This process replicates what a human user would experience in a browser. Debugging rendering issues is crucial for identifying whether:

• The page renders correctly.
• Certain elements fail to render.
• The page cannot be indexed at all.

Practical Steps for Debugging

1. Submit the URL to Diagnostic Tools: Use Google Search Console or the Rich Results Test to review the rendered version of your page.
2. Inspect JavaScript Console Messages: Check for errors that might indicate issues with resource loading or execution.
3. Evaluate External Dependencies: Ensure APIs or other resources aren’t blocked by Robots.txt or firewall restrictions.
4. Test Alternate Scenarios: Temporarily disable specific JavaScript functions to isolate potential issues and identify workarounds.

Why SEOs Often Misattribute Issues to JavaScript

Splitt attributes JavaScript’s reputation as a frequent culprit to a lack of debugging knowledge. Many SEOs lack the technical expertise to accurately diagnose problems, leading them to blame JavaScript as a default assumption. By learning a few key debugging techniques, SEOs can:

• Save time by addressing real issues more quickly.
• Reduce reliance on external support for basic problems.
• Gain confidence in identifying and solving indexing challenges.

Examples of Misattributed Issues

• Blocked APIs: Errors may arise from APIs restricted by Robots.txt rather than from JavaScript execution.
• Server-Side Problems: Inconsistent server responses can lead to rendering issues that have nothing to do with JavaScript.
• Improper Resource Loading: Missing fonts or CSS files can impact rendering but are often incorrectly blamed on JavaScript.

Takeaways and Best Practices

Adopt a Systematic Approach

Use diagnostic tools to confirm whether JavaScript is genuinely causing the issue. Avoid jumping to conclusions based on superficial observations or limited evidence.

Avoid Confirmation Bias

Remain open to alternative explanations for indexing or rendering problems. Consider server-side issues, resource restrictions, and improper configurations as potential culprits.

Educate Your Team

Share debugging knowledge within your organization to empower team members to identify and resolve issues independently. This reduces dependency on external experts and accelerates problem-solving.

Optimize JavaScript Usage

While JavaScript is rarely the sole cause of SEO problems, optimizing its implementation can improve overall site performance. Best practices include:

• Minimizing unnecessary JavaScript.
• Ensuring resources load asynchronously where possible.
• Testing across multiple devices and browsers to ensure compatibility.

Conclusion

JavaScript’s role in SEO is often misunderstood, leading to misplaced blame for indexing and rendering issues. By using tools like Google Search Console, Rich Results Test, and Chrome DevTools, SEOs can systematically diagnose and resolve problems. Martin Splitt’s insights underscore the importance of thorough debugging and avoiding assumptions, ultimately saving time and improving site performance.

Understanding and addressing the root causes of indexing issues not only enhances SEO outcomes but also contributes to a more robust and efficient digital presence. With the right tools and knowledge, SEOs can confidently tackle challenges and ensure their websites are optimized for both users and search engines.

Also Read: Discover Google Saved: The Bookmarking Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed

Watch Martin Splitt’s presentation here:

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FAQs

Google offers a hidden gem called Google Saved, a versatile bookmarking feature that many users have overlooked. Formerly known as Google Collections, this tool provides a centralized space to save and organize web links, locations, images, movies, and more. It’s a powerful way to manage your interests, enhance productivity, and revisit them whenever needed.

What is Google Saved?

Google Saved is an intuitive bookmarking feature integrated into Google’s ecosystem. Accessible on the web, mobile devices, and even platforms like Google TV, this tool lets you save a variety of items, from search results to movie watchlists. It syncs seamlessly across devices using your Google account, ensuring that your saved content is always at your fingertips.

Whether you’re organizing resources for a work project, planning a trip, or simply saving inspirational ideas, Google Saved provides a user-friendly solution to keep everything in one place.

How to Use Google Saved

Saving Items

1. Web Links: During a Google search, click the three dots beside a result and select Save. The same option is available for image searches, allowing you to bookmark visual inspiration or important graphics.
2. Maps Locations: In Google Maps, click on a location or landmark and choose Save from the pop-up panel. This feature is perfect for planning vacations or creating lists of frequently visited spots.
3. Movies and Shows: Use the Want to watch button during a search, or add items directly via the Google TV interface. This makes it easier to curate a personalized entertainment library.
4. Mobile Saving: On mobile devices, the Save button may appear in slightly different locations depending on the app you’re using, but the functionality remains consistent.

Organizing Your Saved Items

Saved items are grouped into Collections, allowing you to categorize and organize them with ease:

• Add items to an existing collection or create new ones for specific topics or projects.
• Use collections to track progress, such as gathering resources for a presentation or planning a wedding.
• Regularly review and update your collections to keep them relevant and streamlined.

Accessing Your Saved Content

The easiest way to view your saved items is by visiting the Google Saved page on the web. Here, you’ll find default collections like “All saved items” and the ability to create new ones. The search bar at the top of the page allows you to quickly locate specific content, saving time when revisiting your saved items.

On mobile devices, access your collections through the Saved tab in the Google app. The functionality mirrors the web experience, offering options to share, delete, or edit items. Additionally, Google Maps and Google TV provide direct access to saved locations and watchlists, ensuring a seamless experience across platforms.

Key Features of Google Saved

• Cross-Device Syncing: Save items on one device and access them on another, ensuring your collections are always up to date.
• Customization: Name, describe, and reorder collections to suit your needs. For example, create themed collections such as “Work Inspiration” or “Family Vacation.”
• Sharing: Share collections with others for collaborative purposes, such as planning group trips or working on team projects.
• Convenient Editing: Remove, move, or update saved items easily, keeping your collections relevant and clutter-free.
• Integration with Google Services: Seamlessly save content from Google Maps, Google Search, and Google TV for a comprehensive bookmarking experience.

Why Use Google Saved?

1. Centralized Organization: Keep all your saved items in one place for easy access, reducing the need for multiple apps or tools.
2. Versatility: Save and manage a wide range of content, from links to travel destinations to entertainment options.
3. Efficiency: Quickly revisit items without having to start a new search, saving you valuable time.
4. Enhanced Collaboration: Share collections with friends, family, or colleagues to work together on projects or plans.
5. Improved Productivity: Use collections to track tasks, manage research, and organize resources effectively.

Conclusion

Google Saved is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to stay organized in the digital age. Whether you’re saving research for a project, bookmarking must-visit locations, or creating a watchlist of movies, this feature simplifies the process and enhances productivity. Explore Google Saved today to take control of your digital bookmarks and make your life more organized and efficient.

Also Read: Google Chrome Update—A Challenge for Microsoft Windows

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FAQs