You do not need to be an SEO expert to find the biggest problems on your website. This checklist covers 15 things you can check yourself. Work through it with a free tool such as Google Search Console and a browser.
A. Can Google Find and Index Your Pages?
- Is your site indexed? Search for site:yourdomain.com in Google. If nothing appears, you have an indexing problem.
- Is Google Search Console set up? It shows indexing errors, search queries and sitemap status.
- Is there an XML sitemap? Submit it in Search Console.
- Is anything blocked by accident? Check your robots.txt file and page settings for “noindex”.
- Is the site secure? Pages should load over HTTPS without warnings.
B. Is the Site Fast and Mobile Friendly?
- Mobile usability: open the site on a phone. Is text readable and are buttons easy to tap?
- Speed: test key pages with PageSpeed Insights. Large images are a common cause of slowness.
C. Are Your Pages Clear to Search Engines?
- Page titles: each page should have a unique, descriptive title.
- Meta descriptions: unique and written for people, to earn clicks.
- Headings: one clear main heading (H1) per page, with logical subheadings.
- Duplicate pages: check for duplicate content or several versions of the same page.
- Broken links: find and fix links that lead to error pages.
D. Is Your Content and Presence Strong?
- Service pages: does each main service have its own helpful page?
- Local presence: is your Google Business Profile complete, with matching name, address and phone number? See local SEO.
- Tracking: are calls, forms and key actions measured? Without tracking you cannot see what works.
How to Score Yourself
| Checks passed | What it suggests |
|---|---|
| 13–15 | Strong basics; focus on content and links |
| 9–12 | Some gaps; fix the technical items first |
| Under 9 | Basics need work before further investment |
What to Fix First
- Anything that blocks indexing
- Mobile and speed problems
- Missing or duplicate titles on key pages
- Tracking
- Content gaps
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I run an SEO audit?
A quick check every few months and a deeper review once a year is a sensible rhythm.
Do I need paid tools?
Not to start. Free tools cover many basics. Paid tools help with deeper analysis.
The Bottom Line
A simple audit can reveal problems that quietly cost you visitors. Want an expert review? Request a free SEO audit.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal, medical or compliance advice. Prices, features, policies, laws and results can change or may not apply to your situation, and we do not guarantee accuracy, outcomes or future performance. Please verify important details, including pricing, regulations and commitments, with the official source or website, or a qualified professional, before acting on them.