Canonical Tag
A canonical tag tells search engines which URL is the preferred version to avoid duplicates.
Definition
The canonical tag () signals the master page among duplicates.
Why it matters
It prevents dilution of ranking signals and duplicate content issues.
Example: Setting canonical from /product?color=red to /product.
Use Cases
Duplicate Management
Solve duplicate page issues.
E-commerce SEO
Handle product variations.
Content Syndication
Protect original publishers.
Point links to one main page.
Signal Authority
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a canonical tag?
An HTML tag to pick the main URL.
Why use canonicals?
To avoid duplicate issues.
Where to place them?
In <head> of the preferred page.
Do canonicals pass link equity?
They’re hints, not strict commands.
Are canonicals directives?
They’re hints, not strict commands.
