What is Algorithm?

Google's algorithm is the system that decides which pages rank for which searches. It evaluates hundreds of factors to determine the most relevant, authoritative results. The exact formula is secret, but SEO best practices are based on observed patterns.

Google makes thousands of small changes yearly, plus several major 'core updates' announced publicly. Major updates can significantly shift rankings. Following Google's official announcements helps you understand changes.

Focus on genuine quality: helpful content, good user experience, honest practices, and real expertise. Sites following these principles generally survive updates; sites using tricks or thin content get hit. Don't chase shortcuts.

First, confirm it was an update (check industry news). Analyze what changed, which pages lost traffic for which queries. Compare to pages that now rank better. Often the solution is improving content depth, expertise signals, or user experience.