Google Structured Data Does Not Improve Search Rankings

In the ever-changing world of SEO, myths and misconceptions spread quickly. One of the biggest misunderstandings is that structured data (like Schema markup) helps websites rank higher in Google Search.

Recently, Google’s John Mueller settled this debate once and for all. In a discussion on Bluesky, he made it clear:

“Structured data won’t make your site rank better.”

This statement has major implications for SEO professionals, marketers, and website owners who invest time and resources into structured data, hoping for a ranking boost.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down:

  1. What structured data really does
  2. Why it doesn’t affect rankings
  3. How to use it correctly for maximum SEO benefits
  4. Common myths debunked

What Is Structured Data? (And Why People Get Confused)

Definition of Structured Data

Structured data is a standardized format (using Schema.org vocabulary) that helps search engines like Google understand the content on your website.

It uses special HTML tags to label different types of information, such as:

  1. Product details (price, reviews, availability)
  2. Events (date, location, ticket info)
  3. Recipes (cooking time, ingredients, ratings)
  4. Articles (author, publish date, headline)

Why Do People Think It Helps with Rankings?

Many SEOs believe that because structured data improves how content appears in search results (through rich snippets), it must also help rankings.

However, Google has repeatedly confirmed that structured data is only for enhanced display features, not ranking algorithms.

Also Read: YouTube Reveals Expert Tips for Creating Engaging Shorts

Google’s Official Stance Structured Data Is Not a Ranking Factor

John Mueller’s Exact Words

In a Bluesky thread, Mueller stated:

“Structured data won’t make your site rank better. It’s used for displaying the search features listed in developers.google.com/search/docs. Use it if your pages map to & are appropriate for any of those features.”

This means:
Helps with rich results (like FAQs, reviews, events)
Does not influence rankings directly

Google’s Documentation Supports This

Google’s Search Essentials (formerly Webmaster Guidelines) clearly state that structured data is for:

  1. Rich snippets
  2. Knowledge panels
  3. Other enhanced search features

But nowhere does Google say it affects rankings.

How Structured Data Actually Works in Search

What Structured Data Can Do

  1. Enables Rich Results
  • Star ratings
  • FAQ snippets
  • Recipe cards
  • Event listings

To know more Read our Article

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