Updated
Website structure (or site architecture) describes how the pages of a website are organised and linked to each other. A good structure helps visitors find what they need quickly and helps search engines understand the site.
Why structure matters
Google and AI crawlers use the structure to work out which pages matter most and how topics relate. Pages buried deep or not linked at all are crawled less often and rank worse. For users, a clear structure means fewer bounces and more enquiries.
Key elements of website structure
- A logical hierarchy: homepage, categories, subpages.
- Clear navigation and breadcrumbs.
- Descriptive URLs that reflect the hierarchy.
- Internal links between related pages.
- An XML sitemap for search engines.
The three click rule
Important pages should be reachable from the homepage in no more than three clicks. It is not an official Google rule, but it is a good benchmark for a flat, easy to understand structure.
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