Identify the competing versions
Collect parameter variants, alternate paths and any duplicate URLs that show the same main content. Decide which version should represent the page. Keep the choice tied to actual content and navigation rather than convenience alone.
Titles, descriptions and canonical URL
A page-level metadata check showing the title, description, indexability and canonical URL.
Compare the signals
Review the canonical tag, redirects, internal links and sitemap entry. A page that points its canonical to the homepage while being promoted as a distinct service deserves investigation. Confirm that the preferred destination is accessible and appropriate.
Validate after the change
Retest the response and rendered HTML, then review available indexing information. Google can select a different canonical, so the declared tag is not proof that consolidation has happened. Keep a log of the decision and the URLs affected.
Put the guidance to work
Capture your starting point, assign an owner to the next action, and decide what evidence will confirm that it worked.
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