Google Document Leak Reveals Website Ranking Processes
Recently, a notable leak occurred, revealing a Google document titled “Content API Warehouse” with 2500 pages. The document contains numerous previously undisclosed specifics about how Google’s ranking process determines which websites will appear in the top results of search engine queries. Experts have attested to the authenticity of the document.
Initially, Google chose to remain silent about the situation. Later, however, it sent a confirming statement about the leak to The Verge. The document contains various technical specifics primarily intended for developers and SEO specialists.
Sent the document from an anonymous source, SEO expert, Rand Fishkin, alongside other leading SEO specialists, conducted a thorough analysis of the document. Resource Mashable reported that their analysis confirmed the authenticity of the leak. The document unveils interesting details about how Google uses Chrome browser data and user clicks in page ranking — a claim previously denied by the company.
Key Findings from the Leaked Document
The document discloses several engaging elements. First, Google uses Chrome browser users’ click data to determine which website pages to show in the search results — a fact previously denied by Google.
Google also specifically marks “small personal websites” for uncertain reasons. The need for this designation is unclear and has generated more questions than answers. SEO expert, Mike King from iPullRank, noted this and initiated an investigation into its significance.
The question raised is how Google categorizes “small” and “personal” websites. Moreover, Google has not provided details as to why these websites earn the flag — does it help boost visibility in searches, or does it negatively impact their ranking?
Another disclosed issue is that user clicks play a more significant role in ranking than previously claimed. Short clicks — quick exits from a site — versus long clicks are key elements. It appears that Google relies considerably more on user clicks for search engine ranking than previously known.
Google Perspective on Exact-Match Domains
Among webmasters and the digital marketing community, there was an existing perception that Google rewards exact match domain names. However, it appears that exact match domain names could negatively influence search ranking. Google perceives them as potential spam.
Sites Covering Certain Topics Require Manual Approval
For some topics, such as COVID, politics, and tourism, there are “white lists” of sites that may appear in search results. All new sites on these topics must undergo manual approval.
In conclusion, experts believe that Google has not been entirely transparent about its ranking algorithm. This leak has clarified many previously controversial points about how the search engine operates.
