How to optimize for Google's "Top Stories" carousel

Optimizing for Google's "Top Stories" carousel involves implementing best practices for search engine optimization (SEO) and ensuring your content meets Google's specific requirements for inclusion in the carousel. Here are some tips to help you optimize for the "Top Stories" feature:

1. Create High-Quality Content:

   • Produce high-quality, original content that provides value to your audience.
   • Ensure your content is well-researched, accurate, and up-to-date.

2. Mobile-Friendly Design:

   • Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, as Google prioritizes mobile-first indexing.
   • Optimize your site's design and user experience for mobile users.

3. Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP):

   • Consider implementing Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) to create lightweight, fast-loading pages. Google often favors AMP pages for the "Top Stories" feature.

4. Structured Data Markup:

   • Implement structured data markup using the Schema.org markup to provide additional information about your content. Use the "NewsArticle" schema for news-related content.

5. XML Sitemaps:

   • Create an XML sitemap for your website and submit it to Google Search Console. This helps Google discover and index your content more efficiently.

6. HTTPS Security:

   • Ensure that your website uses HTTPS for a secure connection. Google tends to prioritize secure websites in search results.

7. Page Speed Optimization:

   • Optimize your website's loading speed. Fast-loading pages are essential for a good user experience and may be favored by Google.

8. Submit to Google News Publisher Center:

   • If your website publishes news content, consider submitting it to the Google News Publisher Center. This can enhance your chances of being included in the "Top Stories" carousel.

9. Fresh and Timely Content:

   • Regularly update your content to keep it fresh and relevant. Google is more likely to include timely and trending content in the "Top Stories" feature.

10. Quality Backlinks:

    • Build high-quality backlinks from reputable sources to increase the authority and credibility of your content.

11. Avoid Duplicate Content:

    • Ensure that your content is unique and not duplicated from other sources. Google prefers original content.

12. Use Descriptive Titles and Headings:

    • Craft clear and descriptive titles and headings for your articles. This helps Google understand the main topics of your content.

13. Optimize Images:

    • Optimize images for fast loading and include descriptive alt text. Images can play a role in the visual presentation of news articles.

14. Follow Google's Guidelines:

    • Stay updated on Google's guidelines for news content and "Top Stories" eligibility. Adhering to these guidelines can improve your chances of being featured.

Remember that Google's algorithms are constantly evolving, so it's important to stay informed about any updates to SEO practices and Google's ranking criteria. Regularly monitor your website's performance through tools like Google Search Console and make adjustments as needed.