How to get started with accelerated mobile pages

Google first launched accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) in 2016 and the framework of this type of page gives webmasters the opportunity to further optimise in terms of a fasters, more efficient and cleaner site for mobile devices.

By now we all know how important mobiles are, with more people searching on Google using their mobile phones compared to that of a desktop computer. By creating an AMP you are giving mobile users a positive experience and pleasing Google, which can work well to improve your visibility in search engine results.

Recently Jimmy Huh the SEO Consultant shared some tips about SEO and website improvements. According to Jimmy there is a conception that only big websites, like The New York Times or Moz have the resources to get AMP up and running for their site. However, this is not the case, and based on the fabulous results seen by those who have implemented, it is certainly worth the time and effort pursuing this for your own website.

Have a look below at some of the best resources to use to assist you in creating AMP for your website. There are a lot of different resources out there, but the ones showcased below are the best of the best and are particularly helpful for those just starting out.

1. AMP project

AMP Project will help guide you when building your very first AMP page. It is a very simple tutorial, which introduces all the key elements in an easy to understand way. They also provide you with a checklist of everything that needs to be included on your AMP.

You can also find out more information about how to mark up images correctly for AMP, as well as making small adjustments to the page so it is more in line with the design of your normal web pages.

Remember, that with AMP pages there is less flexibly with the variety of design features that you can use. This is to ensure the AMP loads lightning fast. This tutorial shows you how to preview and then validate your site, as well as linking between your standard pages and your AMP pages.

2. The AMP Channel

Most people find reading about how to do something much more difficult to learn, compared to that of watching a video of how something is done. So, head on over to YouTube and go to The AMP Channel, there is simply so much information about how AMPs work you could spend days here.

The AMP Channel will help you with the basics as well as assist in making adjustments when new AMP developments are made. This channel has more tutorials, presentations and (probably the most useful) Q&As.

They even have a set of videos about the recent AMP conference in 2018. There are a lot of different aspects of AMP to take into consideration. So, have a browse of the videos and watch the ones that are most suited to your current situation.

Don’t start off with something too advanced, as it could be confusing and act as a deterrent from you pursuing AMPs at all. You can build up to the more advanced AMP videos as your own knowledge of the topic improves.

3. Implementing AMP on WordPress guide

The great thing about WordPress is that there are so many different plugins available that will work wonders to help improve the overall SEO over your site, as well as your site health in general.

WordPress are always looking for new features to add to ensure their customers get the best content management system possible. With that being said there is an Automatic AMP plug in for users to implement on their website.

While this doesn’t necessarily give you all the information, by taking a look at the two previous resources you should have a basic understanding and have the ability to fill in any blanks.

Once you have finished your page, you should check that it is valid before publishing. The AMP validator tool (which is also a Chrome extension) will give you the green (or red) light. If you have issues with the page, this tool will tell you what they are and where you can find them on your page.

While you may be new to AMP there are a lot of different resources out there, so much so that it can get a bit confusing. It is best to stick to the ones listed above as they will help to properly guide you through the process of creating your first AMP and beyond.

It can seem a bit daunting, especially when you know very little about the area, but after some research you will understand that it really isn’t that difficult. It is certainly worth the time and effort put in because the potential returns on your effort are quite large, both users and Google love AMP!

Christian Woods
Christian Woods
Christian is a morning reporter and technology columnist for Best in Australia. Christian has worked in the media since 2000, in a range of locations. He joined Best in Australia in 2018, and began working in Melbourne in 2019.
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