Validate AMP Content

Before AMP content can perform well in Google Search, it needs to be valid. Validation ensures that AMP pages follow the required technical standards and are properly understood by Google. Without validation, even the fastest AMP page may not be eligible for rich results or might not appear as intended in search.

Why AMP Validation Matters

Validating AMP content is not just a technical step it is a way to confirm that your pages meet both performance and search requirements. Proper validation helps you:

• Ensure AMP pages load correctly across devices.

• Prevent errors that block indexing.

• Maintain eligibility for AMP-specific features in search.

• Provide a consistent user experience.

How to Validate AMP Pages

1. AMP Validator

The AMP Validator checks whether a page meets the AMP specifications. You can use it by:

• Adding #development=1 to the end of your AMP page URL in Chrome DevTools.

• Using the AMP Validator Chrome extension.

2. Google Search Console

Search Console provides an AMP status report that lists valid pages and highlights errors. This tool is helpful for monitoring large sites with many AMP pages.

3. AMP Test Tool

Google’s AMP Test allows you to quickly check individual AMP URLs and see whether they are valid for search. It also shows a preview of how the page may appear in results.

Common AMP Validation Errors

• Missing Required Markup: For example, forgetting to include <link rel="canonical">.

• Invalid Components: Using non-AMP tags or unsupported scripts.

• Image or Video Issues: Incorrect usage of <amp-img> or <amp-video> tags.

• Structured Data Errors: Adding schema that does not match the visible content.

Best Practices for AMP Validation

• Always test AMP pages before publishing them.

• Validate both desktop and mobile versions if applicable.

• Regularly check Search Console to catch new errors.

• Fix validation errors promptly to maintain visibility in search.

Key Takeaway

Validation is what ensures AMP content is both fast and functional. By using Google’s tools and monitoring reports, site owners can keep AMP pages error-free and ready for search features. A validated AMP page is more likely to deliver a smooth experience for users and perform reliably in Google Search.