PILLAR 2, TOPICAL CONTENT · 2.1 Title & metaLowIndustry consensus
Meta description too long
A description past the display width gets cut off mid-sentence in results. I keep the key message in the first line or so.
What it is
Description truncated in SERP.
Why it matters
Key message may be cut.
How to fix it
Keep concise and front-loaded.
How to find it on your site
- Review descriptions longer than about 160 characters.
- Preview them in a SERP simulator.
- Tighten them so the point lands before truncation.
- Re-check the important pages.
Cross-reference to ranking and citation factors
Truncation can cut the call to action. Concise descriptions read fully and convert better.
Impact
Low. Consensus.
Evidence
Concise descriptions display better. Google Search Central, SEO Starter Guide