Canonical tag
An HTML tag that tells search engines which version of a duplicate or similar page is the master to index.
In depth
What it really means
A canonical tag (rel=canonical) points search engines to the preferred version of a page when several similar or duplicate URLs exist. It consolidates ranking signals onto one URL instead of splitting them across duplicates.
It is essential wherever the same content is reachable at multiple URLs: tracking parameters, print versions, product variants, and similar.
Best practices
- Set a self-referencing canonical on your main pages.
- Point duplicate or parameter URLs at the master version.
- Keep canonicals consistent with your internal links and sitemap.
- Avoid canonicalizing to the wrong or a broken URL.
- Don’t rely on canonicals to fix genuinely different pages.
FAQs
What is a canonical tag?
An HTML tag that tells search engines which version of a duplicate or similar page is the master to index.
When do I need a canonical?
Whenever the same or very similar content is reachable at multiple URLs, such as parameter or variant URLs.
Does a canonical guarantee indexing choice?
It is a strong hint, not a command. Search engines usually respect it but can choose otherwise.
Canonical vs 301 redirect?
A canonical keeps both URLs accessible but points ranking to one; a 301 sends users and bots to a single URL.
What is a self-referencing canonical?
A canonical tag on a page pointing to itself, which clarifies the preferred URL and is good practice.
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