Pagination and SEO
Paginated content (e.g. category page 2, 3) can create duplicate or thin URLs. This guide covers rel=prev/next (where supported), canonical strategies, and when to noindex pagination so that the main page retains signals and crawl budget isn't wasted.
Strategies
Use rel=prev/next to link paginated series so Google understands the relationship. Alternatively, canonicalise page 2+ to page 1 if you want only the first page to rank. Consider noindexing page 2+ for large series. Don't include every paginated URL in the sitemap if you want to limit indexing. Ensure internal links point to the main or first page where it makes sense.
- rel=prev/next or canonical
- Noindex if appropriate
- Limit sitemap inclusion