Understanding the Issue
When Google Search Console (GSC) flags the “Duplicate, Google chose different canonical than user” issue, it indicates that Google has found two or more pages on your website with similar or identical content. In these situations, Google selects a primary page (the canonical URL) that may differ from the one you intended. This discrepancy can cause confusion and potentially harm your site’s SEO performance.
Why Does This Happen?
There are several reasons why Google might choose a different canonical URL than the one you specified:
- Similar Content: If multiple pages have very similar or identical content, Google may consider them duplicates.
- Different URLs: The same content accessible via different URLs (e.g., www and non-www versions) can lead to duplicate content issues.
- Varying Importance: Google may deem one page more significant than another, even if both have duplicate content, and choose the more important page as the canonical.
- URL Changes: When a page’s URL changes but the old URL is still indexed by Google, the old URL might be selected as the canonical.
Checking the Issue
To identify and understand the affected URLs:
- Use the URL Inspection Tool: In GSC, inspect the URLs to see which one you have designated as canonical and which one Google has selected.
Difference Between Google and User-Selected Canonical
- Determine Necessary Fixes: Based on your inspection, decide on the appropriate changes to resolve the issue.
Steps to Fix the Issue
Make Content Unique
If two pages have very similar content, modify one of the pages to make its content unique. This differentiation helps Google recognize the pages as distinct, valuable resources. You can add new sections, update the information, or target different keywords to make the content more unique.
Remove Unnecessary Duplicate Pages
Accidental duplication can often lead to this issue. If a duplicate page is unnecessary, simply remove it. Ensure the remaining page has a clear and correct canonical tag to indicate it as the preferred version.
Ensure Proper Canonical Tags
Check that each page on your site has the correct canonical tag pointing to itself or the intended canonical URL. Use the tag in the HTML of your pages to specify the canonical URL.
Use 301 Redirects
If a duplicate page is not needed, set up a 301 redirect to the canonical page. This informs search engines that the page has permanently moved to the new URL, consolidating link equity and signaling to Google which page to prioritize.
Check for URL Parameters
URL parameters can sometimes create duplicate content issues. Ensure that your canonical tags point to the correct version of the page, regardless of any parameters.
Additional Tips
Request Indexing
After making the necessary changes, request re-indexing of the affected pages in GSC to expedite the process.
Monitor the Status
Regularly monitor GSC to ensure the issue is resolved and does not recur. Keep an eye on the “Coverage” report for any new or persisting issues.
Maintain Consistency
Ensure consistency in your internal linking structure and avoid linking to non-canonical versions of your content. This practice helps Google understand your preferred canonical pages.
Use Google Search Central Tools
Refer to Google Search Central for more detailed guidance on handling canonical issues and ensuring your pages are correctly indexed.
Conclusion
Fixing the problem of Google choosing a different main page than you want is important for your website’s success. By understanding why this happens and following the right steps, you can make sure Google shows the correct page to people. It’s like making sure your house’s front door is the right one! To keep this from happening again, watch what Google does and make sure your website is set up correctly.
