What is the correct order of the stages of crawling to ensure proper SEO practices?

The correct order of stages for crawling to ensure proper SEO practices begins with minimizing site errors. This is fundamental because if a search engine's crawler encounters significant errors, it may not be able to access or index the content of the site properly. By ensuring that the website is free from 404 errors, broken links, or server issues, you create a stable environment for crawlers.

Following the resolution of site errors, using redirects wisely is essential. Redirects help guide users and search engines to the appropriate pages without causing confusion or loss of link equity. It’s important to implement the correct type of redirect, such as a 301 for permanent moves, as improper use can result in broken links or lost pages.

Next in line is submitting an XML sitemap. An XML sitemap serves as a roadmap of the website that guides search engines to understand the structure of your pages, making it easier for them to crawl and index the content effectively. This step ensures that all key pages are discoverable by crawlers.

Minimizing duplicate pages comes after the submission of the XML sitemap. Duplicate content can confuse search engines and dilute page authority, negatively affecting search visibility. By identifying and consolidating duplicate pages, it ensures clear signals are sent to crawlers regarding which pages