Definition:
Breadcrumbs or “breadcrumbs” are small text links of a smaller size than the rest of the links and font used in a web page that serve to guide the user within the website, anchor their browsing behavior. In short, make an improvement in usability that also favors the SEO positioning of the page in which they appear.
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In addition, they are also used in the snippets that we find in search engines when performing a specific search due to their aspect of improvement in SEO positioning:
What are Breadcrumbs for?
Breadcrumbs are not included as a website navigation tool but to provide the user with two main functions. First of all to place it within the structure of the website. Thanks to these “crumbs” it can be found within a page both physically and conceptually. On the other hand, it also facilitates direct access to the upper levels, in addition to being able to do it more quickly.
How it influences SEO
Breadcrumbs have an influence on organic search engine positioning. To improve SEO they help in the user experience by reducing the bounce rate and increasing the time spent on the website. These links are also an opportunity to add relevant anchor texts.
In turn, these links strengthen the internal linking to first-level pages, so that the positioning improves. Breadcrumbs must include a schema of structured data. This way Google will be able to include these snippets in the search results.
Frequently asked questions about Breadcrumbs
What are Breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs are navigation links that show the hierarchical path of a page within a website. They help the user understand where they are, return to higher levels and explore related sections with less friction.
What are Breadcrumbs used for in SEO?
They are used to reinforce information architecture, internal linking and understanding of hierarchies. They can also help search engines interpret the relationship between pages and, with correct structured data, improve result presentation.
What is the difference between Breadcrumbs and the main menu?
The main menu shows the most important sections of the site and is usually global. Breadcrumbs show the specific location of a page within a hierarchical path, so they depend on the context of each URL.
What should a Breadcrumbs implementation take care of?
It should take care that the path is logical, linkable, consistent with the real architecture and visible to the user. It is also advisable to implement BreadcrumbList markup, avoid false paths and check that they do not generate confusing internal links.