Question: Does Google index hidden content?

Google's indexing of content, specifically content that is not immediately visible or 'hidden' on a webpage (e.g., content in tabs, collapsible forms, or accordions), has been a topic of discussion among SEO professionals. As of the latest guidelines, Google does index hidden content but may not give it as much weight as visible content directly accessible on page load.

How Google Handles Hidden Content

Google aims to index and understand content as a typical user would when visiting a website. This means content hidden behind clicks, such as tabs or expanding sections, is still indexed by Google. However, the search engine might prioritize visible content because it's readily accessible to users upon entering the site.

Why the Change in Approach?

Initially, hidden content was devalued by Google due to concerns over abuse (such as stuffing keywords into sections that most users wouldn't see). However, as web design trends evolved towards more interactive and mobile-friendly interfaces, which often use such designs to enhance user experience without sacrificing content quality, Google adjusted its approach to better reflect how users interact with content.

Best Practices for SEO

1. Ensure Readability: Make sure that even your hidden content is easy to read and valuable to your audience once accessed.
2. Relevance and Quality Over Quantity: While hidden content is indexed, relevance and quality are crucial. Don't hide large amounts of irrelevant content with the expectation that it will boost SEO.
3. Test Mobile and Desktop Versions: Since mobile sites often use hidden content for navigational ease, ensure both versions of your site make important content accessible and crawlable.

In conclusion, while Google does index hidden content, the emphasis should always be on making your website intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that all content, whether hidden or visible, adds real value to your visitors.