An XML sitemap isn’t as scary as it sounds. In simple terms, it’s a file that lists the essential pages of your website and conveys information about each page. This file is written in an Extensible Markup Language (XML) format, which might not be a format you understand, but don’t worry because Google does!
An XML sitemap provides a blueprint of your site, allowing search engines to do their jobs, improving your rankings and helping you get discovered. Read on to learn what you need to know.
Why Have an XML Sitemap?
There are several reasons an XML sitemap is necessary, including the following:
- Better discoverability – Sitemaps allow search engines to drive traffic to your website
- More clarity – Sitemaps give search engines a clear map of your site, which allows for better indexing
- Better understanding – Sitemaps make it easier for search engines to understand what your site offers, upping the odds that they’ll guide the right audience in your direction
- Better accessibility for key pages – Sitemaps help ensure your most important pages get priority
How to Create an XML Sitemap
One of the easiest ways to create an XML sitemap is to use a plugin (such as AIOSEO on WordPress). Sites like Wix and Blogger also have sitemaps available. If you’re creating a sitemap manually, you can use a text editor (such as Notepad on Windows) and follow the syntax requirements. However, this process is tedious and only recommended if your sitemap is small.
How to Make Your XML Sitemap Most Effective
To get the most out of your XML sitemap, consider adhering to the following best practices:
- Keep your sitemap up to date so that it represents the current state of your website
- Use the correct tags so your map is properly optimized for search engines
- Give important pages more priority
- Use the Google Search Console to track your site’s indexing and crawling and make adjustments as necessary
- Make sure your sitemap does not include duplicate pages, which might harm your search rankings
XML sitemaps help your website get found. If you have any questions about these maps or anything else, give us a shout; we’ll be happy to help.