P2Issue #36

URL : Underscores

❓ What does it mean?

❓ What does it mean? When a website’s URL structure uses underscores (_) instead of hyphens (-), search engines treat them differently. Google treats underscores as joiners → words connected with _ are read as one word. Hyphens (-) are treated as separators → words remain distinct. Example: red_shoes.html → Google reads as “redshoes” red-shoes.html → Google reads as “red shoes”

🚨 Why is it important for SEO?

🚨 Why is it bad for SEO? Reduced Keyword Clarity Using _ hides keyword separation, lowering relevance. Lower Click-Through Rate (CTR) Hyphenated URLs look cleaner and more readable to users. Inconsistent SEO Signals If some pages use - and others _, it creates inconsistency. Potential Duplicate Issues Search engines may index both variations differently if not handled with redirects.

✅ How to Fix It

✅ Best Practices Always use hyphens (-) instead of underscores (_) in URLs. Keep URLs short, descriptive, and lowercase. Avoid special characters, spaces, and unnecessary parameters. Use 301 redirects if you’re changing from _ to - to preserve SEO value.

❌ Bad Example

📌 Example ❌ Bad (with underscores): https://example.com/red_shoes/new_arrivals Google reads red_shoes as redshoes → keyword lost.

✅ Good Example

✅ Good (with hyphens): https://example.com/red-shoes/new-arrivals Clear keyword separation: red shoes + new arrivals. User-friendly and SEO-friendly.

⚡ Result

⚡ Result of Fixing Improved keyword recognition by search engines. Cleaner, more clickable URLs in SERPs. Stronger semantic signals → better chances of ranking. Enhanced user trust and experience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between underscores and hyphens in URLs?

Google treats underscores as joiners, reading connected words as one word, while hyphens are treated as separators, keeping words distinct.

Why are underscores in URLs problematic for SEO?

They can lead to reduced keyword clarity, lower click-through rates, inconsistent SEO signals, and potential duplicate issues.

How can I fix issues caused by underscores in URLs?

You can fix them by using hyphens instead of underscores, keeping URLs short and descriptive, avoiding special characters, and using 301 redirects if changing from underscores to hyphens.

What are the benefits of using hyphens in URLs?

Using hyphens improves keyword recognition by search engines, creates cleaner and more clickable URLs, strengthens semantic signals for better ranking chances, and enhances user trust and experience.