If you want to see exactly how Google crawls, indexes, or encounters errors on a specific page, you need the Google Search Console URL Inspection Tool. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use this handy feature to check crawl dates, test live URLs, request indexing, and troubleshoot issues so your pages show up in search.
You don’t need to be an SEO pro to get value here. Let’s walk through what the tool reveals and how you can put its insights to work for your business.
Understand URL inspection tool
What it reveals
The URL Inspection Tool pulls live data straight from the Google index. Here’s what you can see:
- Last crawl date, so you know how fresh Google’s view is
- Index status, including whether your page is on Google or has issues
- Canonical URL Google selected for that page
- Structured data and rich results detected at last crawl
- Video indexing status if you have embedded media
Why it matters
Knowing exactly how Google “sees” each page helps you catch problems before they tank your rankings. Missing structured data, wrong canonicals, or crawl errors can all keep your site out of search results—even if your content is great.
Check your page status
- Open Google Search Console and select your property
- Paste the full page URL into the inspection bar at the top
- Press Enter and wait for the report to load
Interpret presence status
You’ll see one of four values under “Indexing”:
- URL is on Google
- URL is on Google, but has issues
- URL is not on Google
- URL is an alternate version
Each status comes with quick tips. For example, “not on Google” might point to a noindex tag or a crawl block.
Review enhancement details
Scroll down to see any detected enhancements, like AMP pages or rich results. Warnings and errors are flagged so you can fix them fast, keeping your snippets looking sharp in search.
Run a live URL test
When to use live test
- You’ve made changes—like updating meta tags or structured data
- You want to confirm Googlebot can still access the page
- You need to verify fixes before requesting reindexing
How to interpret results
The live test simulates Googlebot’s view right now. If it passes, you’ll see green checks for accessibility and mobile friendliness. Red flags mean something on your site is blocking Google.
Request page indexing
How to request indexing
- After a live test completes, click Request indexing
- Wait for Google to queue your URL (usually within minutes)
- Monitor crawl activity in the Crawl Stats report over the next few days
Best practices
- Limit yourself to key pages—you get about 10 requests per day
- Test live first to avoid queuing pages with unfixable issues
- Combine with content updates so you maximize each request
Troubleshoot indexing issues
| Symptom | Possible cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| URL is not on Google | robots.txt blocking | Update robots.txt to allow crawlers, then re-test live |
| Crawl anomaly | Server timeout or error | Check server logs, boost resources, or fix timeout settings |
| Noindex tag detected | Meta robots set to noindex | Remove or correct the meta robots tag |
| Alternate version selected | Incorrect canonical URL | Ensure your page self-canonicalizes or points to the preferred version |
If you spot errors, tackle the fix, then re-run a live test. That way you know Googlebot can now reach and index your page.
Combine with other reports
The URL Inspection Tool is powerful, but it gets even better when paired with other Search Console data:
- Track impressions and clicks in the google search console performance report
- Identify linking pages with the google search console backlinks report
- Dive deeper into site setup or learn every feature in our how to use google search console guide
By cross-referencing these insights, you’ll spot trends, find high-value pages, and prioritize fixes that move the needle.
Start inspecting your pages
Now that you know how to inspect, test, and fix your URLs, it’s time to dive in. If you’re new to Search Console, start with google search console setup, then head over to how to use google search console for more tips.
Key takeaways
- The URL Inspection Tool shows real-time crawl, index, and enhancement data
- Live testing confirms Googlebot access before you request indexing
- Request indexing sparingly to keep within daily limits
- Use the tool alongside performance and backlinks reports for full insights
Ready to give it a try? Inspect a priority page right now and let us know what you uncover in the comments below.
source https://localseoagency.co.za/google-search-console-url-inspection-tool/
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