How to Use Google Search Console
Google Search Console (GSC) is a free tool from Google that shows you how your website performs in Google search. It tells you which queries bring visitors, which pages are indexed, what errors exist, and how your site's health looks from Google's perspective. Every website owner should have it set up.
Setting Up Google Search Console
- Go to search.google.com/search-console
- Click "Add property" and enter your domain
- Verify ownership (DNS record is the most reliable method)
- Submit your sitemap
Key Reports to Monitor
| Report | What It Shows | Check Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Search queries, clicks, impressions, CTR, position | Weekly |
| Pages (Indexing) | Which pages are indexed, excluded, or have errors | Monthly |
| Core Web Vitals | LCP, INP, CLS scores across your site | Monthly |
| Sitemaps | Status of submitted sitemaps | After changes |
| Links | External and internal links to your pages | Monthly |
| Manual Actions | Penalties from Google's manual review team | When issues arise |
Common Issues to Fix
- Pages not indexed — check for noindex tags or robots.txt blocks
- 404 errors — find and fix broken links
- Mobile usability issues — follow the mobile SEO guide
- Low CTR — improve your title tags and meta descriptions
Combine GSC data with regular site audits for a complete picture of your website's SEO health.
Check your site now: Run a free audit on the RankNibbler homepage to see how your page scores across 30+ SEO checks.
Last updated: March 2026