What is Schema Markup?
Schema markup (structured data) is a standardized vocabulary you add to your website's HTML to help search engines understand the exact meaning of your content. While Google is great at reading text, schema translates details like phone numbers, prices, and reviews into structured formats that are instantly indexed.
The 4 Essential Schema Types for Small Businesses
- LocalBusiness Schema: Injects your NAP (Name, Address, Phone), logo, geotargeting coordinates, social profiles, and opening hours directly into the local search index.
- Service Schema: Details the specific services you offer, price ranges, and service areas, helping you rank for long-tail search queries.
- FAQPage Schema: Renders questions and answers directly in the search results, increasing your listing's footprint and capturing early intent clicks.
- Review / AggregateRating Schema: Displays star ratings under your search results. Listings with star ratings receive up to 30% higher click-through rates.
How to Test Your Schema
Do not publish schema markup without testing it first. Use Google's official Rich Results Test tool to ensure your JSON-LD syntax is valid and contains no critical warnings that could prevent it from displaying in search results.