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Structured Data

Definition
Structured Data is a standardized format for organizing and annotating information on a webpage, typically using formats such as JSON-LD, Microdata, or RDFa. This markup helps browsers and search engine crawlers understand the context and relationships between various elements on a site.

What is it?
Structured Data essentially provides a “blueprint” for a webpage’s content, detailing its components—such as articles, events, products, or reviews—in a way that search engines can easily interpret. Unlike plain HTML, which only displays content, structured data conveys explicit meaning, making it clear how different pieces of content relate to one another. This clarity allows search engines to present enriched search results, like rich snippets and enhanced listings, that include additional details such as images, ratings, and pricing information.

How is it used?
Webmasters add structured data to their webpages by incorporating specific markup into the site’s code. This is most commonly done using JSON-LD, which is recommended by Google for its simplicity and ease of implementation. By accurately labeling key elements—like the title, author, publication date, or product specifications—search engines can more effectively index and display the content. The use of structured data not only improves a page’s visibility in search results but also enhances the likelihood of obtaining rich snippets, which can lead to higher click-through rates and a more engaging user experience.

Applicable Areas

Related terms

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