What it is
Deprecated elements like font, center or marquee may render inconsistently and signal dated, unmaintained markup. Modern semantic HTML and CSS are the replacement. font/center etc. Dated, non-semantic markup. Use modern semantic HTML + CSS. Low. Inferred.
Why does deprecated html elements matter for AI search?
Dated, non-semantic markup.
How do you fix it?
Use modern semantic HTML + CSS.
How do you find it on your site?
- Scan the markup for deprecated elements and attributes.
- Replace them with current semantic elements and CSS.
- Re-validate against the current HTML spec.
- Standardise on modern markup going forward.
Which ranking and citation factors does it touch?
Deprecated elements are unreliable and signal neglected code. Modern markup is more robust and maintainable.
What is the impact?
Low. Inferred.
What is the evidence?
Semantic HTML is recommended. Google Search Central, Understand JavaScript SEO Basics
Frequently asked questions about deprecated html elements
What does "Deprecated HTML elements" mean?
font/center etc.
How do you fix deprecated HTML elements?
Use modern semantic HTML + CSS.