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Google Algorithm Update

A change to Google's core ranking systems that can alter how pages are evaluated, ordered, and shown in search results.

If you have ever seen your rankings drop overnight and assumed a penalty, you already know the difference between an update and a manual action.

Key points

  • Wait at least a week after a core update finishes before analysing your search performance.
  • Improve your page for users, not just for the named update.
  • A ranking drop after an update is not a penalty; other pages may now be more relevant.
  • Track volatility using a google algorithm volatility graph to understand broader shifts.
  • Keep track of confirmed SEO updates to distinguish them from general volatility.

A travel blog recovers from a core update

A travel blog saw a 40% drop in organic traffic after a core update. The site had thin, aggregated content on many destination pages. The owner analysed the affected pages using Search Console, identified low-quality sections, and rewrote them with original photos and local insights. Over the next three months, traffic returned to previous levels.

Three common mistakes when reacting to an update

  • Treating every drop as a penalty A ranking drop after an update is often an algorithmic re-evaluation, not a manual action. Check Search Console for manual actions before assuming the worst.
  • Making quick fixes too soon Immediate changes during rollout can be wasted if the update hasn't settled. Wait at least a week after completion before acting.
  • Optimising only for the update name Focus on improving overall user experience and content quality rather than chasing a specific update's supposed targets, as these targets are often misunderstood and quickly outdated.

Four ways to diagnose update impact

  • Use Search Console Compare performance before, during, and after the update. Look for patterns across queries and pages to identify which areas were affected.
  • Check a volatility graph A google algorithm volatility graph shows broader ranking shifts. Use it to confirm if your site's changes align with overall SERP movement.
  • Review content quality Assess whether your pages meet the helpful content criteria. Thin, low-value pages are often hit hardest by core updates.
  • Analyse user intent alignment Ensure your pages match the search intent for their target keywords. Misalignment can cause ranking drops even with good content.

Three things to check before making changes

  • Page experience signals Check Core Web Vitals, mobile usability, and HTTPS. Poor page experience can compound ranking losses after an update.
  • E-E-A-T signals For YMYL topics, ensure your content demonstrates expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness through author bios, citations, clear sourcing, and regular updates to maintain relevance.
  • Competitor changes Sometimes your rankings drop because competitors improved. Analyse their pages to understand what they did better, such as adding content depth, improving load speed, or earning stronger backlinks.

Common questions

What should I do after a Google algorithm update?

Wait at least a week, then analyse your Search Console data. Focus on improving content quality and user experience rather than quick fixes.

Is every ranking drop caused by an update?

No, ranking drops can also result from technical issues, competitor changes, or seasonal trends. Verify using a volatility graph and Search Console.

Sources

  1. Google Search Central – Core Updates Official guidance on how to respond to core updates
  2. Google Search Central – Search ranking systems Overview of how Google's ranking systems work
  3. Google Search Central – Creating helpful, reliable, people-first content Criteria for content that performs well in updates
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