Is this what Google will use instead of the PageRank algorithm?

Google recently announced that the PageRank toolbar won't be updated anymore. Does this mean that Google won't use PageRank as a ranking factor anymore? A Google patent that was granted in September indicates that Google might use some kind of PageRank 2.0 to rank pages.

New methods that Google uses to rank web pages

Google's new patent with the name "Onsite and offsite search ranking results" lists several on-site and off-site factors that Google might use to rank web pages. This could be something like PageRank 2.0.

1.       On-site data that Google might use

On-site data is data that can be retrieved from the analyzed web page and the complete website. According to the patent, Google might consider this information:

•             The frequency of the searched keyword on the web page or website.

•             The location of the searched keyword on the page.

•             The placement of the web page in the structure of the web site. For example, the home page might  be regarded as more important than a page the requires several clicks before it can be viewed.

•             How often a web page is linked from other pages of the same website.

2.       Off-site data that Google might use

In addition to on-site data, Google also uses off-site data to determine the position of a website. Off-site data refers to ranking signals that can be identified without accessing the web page:

•             The number of links to a page or website from other websites.

•             The number of times a web page has been clicked in the search results for a particular keyword.

•             Other statistical data about the relevance of a site.

•             Topical relevance to other sites: if many sites that are relevant to the keyword link to the same site, the linked site becomes more relevant.

•             Authoritative relevance to other site: the number of links to the site can indicate a high authority of the site. Websites with a high level of authority could be trusted more.

•             Web pages that have links from websites with high authority get a higher authority than websites that are linked from sites with less authority.

•             According to the patent, websites with a higher number of links get a higher authority.

Basics of On-Page Search Engine Optimization

The purpose why website owners engage in search engine optimization or SEO is to have their websites on the top positions of Search Engine Results Pages, or SERPs. This can be done for specific keywords and is grouped into two categories: on-page and off-page optimization. The latter can be achieved by creating back links to the website. The link will help you increase your site reputation and is very crucial for landing in the first page in search results. But the basic element of optimization is the page itself. The on-page optimization is an integral part of search engine optimization because it is the one that describes the content of the website and emphasizes the main keyword you are targeting.

It starts with the identification of keywords

When it comes to SEO, the very first thing you need to do is to pick your keyword. You need to look for targeted words or phrases that are connected to your website or your business. By doing this, you will achieve high search volume. As a rule, you need to optimize each page for only one keyword since the main goal of SEO is to highlight a specific keyword in order to relay a message to your visitors and to the search engine what your site is offering. Aside from this, SEO will guide you in reaching the top position in search results for your keyword. On-page optimization is actually a no-brainer and website owner can achieve the search results position they desire given the right moves.

Rights ways in using keywords

To be successful in on-page search engine optimization, you need to put the main keyword at relevant visible and invisible (Meta) page elements. The best thing to do is to include informative, entertaining and readable content so your visitors can know what your website is all about and can easily find the information they need. Your quality content should also mention your keyword at least 2 to 4 times. Once you have written your website's content with your targeted keyword, you also need to think of a page title that will also contain the keyword. Then, add a few header tags (h1, h2, h3, and so on) in order to label paragraphs. And lastly, it is crucial to be careful when using your keyword. Check the word frequency in order to avoid the excessive usage of the word. As mentioned, 2 or 4 mentions would be sufficient.

Doing all these will not automatically put you on the first page of search engines. Google in particular like clear pages that are informative and easy to navigate. The latter can be achieved with the simple menu from which you can reach any page on the website in just one or two clicks.

The purpose of search engine optimization is to tell everyone what your website is really about. For websites engaged in business, search engine optimization will help them get as many traffic as possible. The number of visitors of the website will equate to the success of their business. Optimization is a cost effective way of introducing your products and services online. If you are really interested in performing SEO on your business or personal website, then it is advised that you follow the right techniques and practices in search engine optimization.