Keeping up with Google’s algorithm changes is like chasing a moving target. But understanding what changed in 2024—and how it might have affected your rankings—doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple breakdown of the key updates, how they impacted search results, and what you can do to stay ahead.
Core Updates: Quality Over Everything
Google’s core updates are essentially quality checks for search results. In 2024, they focused heavily on content relevance, user intent, and the E-E-A-T principles: Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Here’s what stood out:
- March 2024 Core Update
- Focus: E-E-A-T took centre stage. Websites lacking credible authorship or authority in their niche felt the heat, especially in sectors like health, finance, and product reviews.
- Example: One of my clients, a health practitioner, saw a dip in rankings due to generic content on complex medical topics. We added detailed author bios of the individuals and linked them to external research, and their rankings rebounded within weeks.
- Pro Tip: Show who’s behind your content. A strong “About” page and author bios can work wonders.
- August 2024 Core Update
- Focus: Google sharpened its understanding of user intent. Sites answering highly specific queries—like “how to fix a washing machine drain issue”—were rewarded, while clickbait articles fell flat.
- Impact Example: An e-commerce store selling DIY repair kits saw traffic jump after adding detailed troubleshooting guides.
- Pro Tip: Map your content to common questions your audience asks, and ensure it’s both actionable and detailed.
- November & December 2024 Core Updates
- Focus: These updates doubled down on content quality and penalised sites relying on old tactics like keyword stuffing or unnatural backlinks. Sites using generative AI content without human oversight also saw drops.
- Pro Tip: Tools like SurferSEO or Clearscope can help you write for both users and search engines, but always add a personal, expert touch to AI-assisted content.
Spam Updates: Cleaning Up the Internet
Spam updates target sites using manipulative practices like cloaking, link farming, or low-quality automated content. In 2024, Google pushed hard against these tactics, making it even riskier to cut corners.
- March & June 2024 Spam Updates
- Focus: Backlinks were under the microscope. Sites engaging in aggressive link-building schemes or buying links from private blog networks saw rankings drop overnight.
- Example: A local service business I worked with lost rankings due to outdated directory links. We disavowed harmful backlinks and earned new ones through partnerships with local organisations, regaining their visibility.
- December 2024 Spam Update
- Focus: Google targeted cloaked pages and poor-quality AI content. Websites using AI to churn out generic or inaccurate content without human oversight were penalised.
- Pro Tip: Review and refine the output if you’re using AI tools. Add insights, personal anecdotes, or research to make it genuinely valuable.
What 2024 Taught Us About SEO
- E-E-A-T Is Here to Stay
Your rankings could take a hit if your site doesn’t demonstrate expertise and trust. Show users (and Google) why you’re the authority in your space. For instance, if you’re in e-commerce, detailed product descriptions and genuine customer reviews can go a long way. - AI Content Needs a Human Touch
AI is a great tool, but it’s not a shortcut. Use it to support your writing, not replace it. A little personal input can make all the difference. - Relevance Beats Tricks
Gone are the days of stuffing keywords or chasing backlinks. Focus on answering your audience’s questions with clarity and depth. Tools like Google’s Search Console can show you which queries bring users to your site, giving you a roadmap for improvement.
Looking Ahead
Google’s updates in 2024 made one thing clear: shortcuts won’t work. If you focus on providing genuine value to your users—through helpful content, trustworthy backlinks, or a smooth mobile experience—you’ll be well-positioned for whatever changes 2025 brings.
Feeling lost in the SEO shuffle?
As someone who’s helped dozens of websites recover from algorithm hits, I’d be happy to take a look at your site. Whether it’s e-commerce, SaaS, or news, let’s build a strategy to improve your rankings.
FAQs about Google Algorithm Updates in 2024
What are Google core updates, and why do they affect my website rankings?
Google core updates are significant algorithm changes aimed at improving the quality of search results. They focus on evaluating the relevance, trustworthiness, and usability of content.
For instance, the March 2024 update emphasised E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). You may see a drop in rankings if your site lacks these elements—such as credible authorship, accurate information, or secure browsing.
To protect your rankings, focus on:
- Creating unique, helpful content.
- Demonstrating expertise through author bios and credentials.
- Securing your site (e.g., using HTTPS) and improving technical SEO like page speed.
While the impact of a core update can feel sudden, it’s often a result of broader content trends rather than a penalty.
How do spam updates affect AI-generated content?
Spam updates in 2024 targeted low-quality, AI-generated content that lacked human refinement. Google aims to reward content that genuinely helps users, whether created by AI or humans.
For example, during the December 2024 spam update, websites relying on unedited AI tools to produce generic blog posts saw significant drops in traffic. Google’s systems can detect patterns of overly repetitive or nonsensical content.
To use AI responsibly:
- Edit and fact-check all AI-generated content.
- Add unique insights, examples, or a personal touch.
- Ensure the content aligns with user intent and addresses their needs.
AI is a tool, not a shortcut—combine it with expertise for the best results.
How do I recover from a drop in rankings after an algorithm update?
Recovering from a Google algorithm update starts with diagnosing the issue. Drops often indicate weaknesses in your site’s content, technical structure, or backlinks.
Here’s a step-by-step recovery guide:
- Audit Your Content: Ensure it aligns with user intent, is original, and follows E-E-A-T principles. Remove thin or duplicate content.
- Check Technical SEO: Use tools like Google Search Console or Screaming Frog to identify errors like broken links, slow-loading pages, or mobile usability issues.
- Evaluate Backlinks: Remove or disavow toxic backlinks. Focus on building links naturally through high-quality, shareable content.
- Monitor Performance: Track metrics like bounce rate and time on site to identify poorly performing pages.
Recovery takes time. Incremental improvements in quality and user experience often lead to regained rankings over time.
Does keyword stuffing still work after the 2024 updates?
No, keyword stuffing is an outdated practice and was further penalised in Google’s 2024 core and spam updates. Google’s algorithms prioritise content that naturally integrates keywords in context rather than artificially inflating their presence.
For example, instead of repeating “best running shoes” ten times on a page, focus on answering specific questions like:
- What features should I look for in running shoes?
- How do running shoes differ for beginners vs. experienced runners?
Use tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs to discover related keywords and ensure they fit naturally into your content. A good rule of thumb: write for humans first, not search engines.
How can I stay updated on future Google algorithm changes?
Keeping up with Google’s algorithm updates is essential for SEO success. Here are some ways to stay informed:
- Follow Google’s Official Announcements: Platforms like the Google Search Central Blog share update news.
- SEO News Websites: Subscribe to sites like Search Engine Journal, Moz, or SEMrush for expert commentary and analysis.
- Use SEO Tools: Platforms like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Screaming Frog often highlight changes in rankings that could indicate algorithm updates.
- Consult an Expert: If you’re managing a large or complex site, working with an SEO specialist can help you adapt to changes more quickly.
Algorithm updates are part of a long-term SEO strategy. Focus on providing value, and you’ll be well-prepared for the future.
