The Ultimate Guide to Fixing "Amp Validation Error" on Blogger
So, you're using Blogger and you're encountering the dreaded "AMP validation error." Don't worry, you're not alone! Many Blogger users face this frustrating issue. This comprehensive guide will walk you through common causes of AMP validation errors and provide practical solutions to get your AMP pages back in top shape.
What is an AMP Validation Error?
Before diving into solutions, let's understand the problem. An AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) validation error means your AMP page doesn't adhere to Google's AMP specifications. This can lead to your pages not appearing in AMP search results, impacting your visibility and traffic. Google's AMP validator is your best friend in identifying these errors.
Common Causes of AMP Validation Errors on Blogger:
There are several reasons why you might encounter AMP validation errors. Here are some of the most prevalent ones:
1. Missing or Incorrect AMP HTML Tags:
-
Problem: AMP pages require specific HTML tags for proper functionality. Missing or incorrectly placed tags are a major source of errors. This includes crucial tags like
<head>
,<body>
,<script async src="https://cdn.ampproject.org/v0.js">
, and many more. -
Solution: Double-check your AMP HTML code for any missing or malformed tags. Compare your code to the official AMP documentation to ensure compliance. Pay close attention to the structure and placement of your tags.
2. Invalid CSS and JavaScript:
-
Problem: AMP has restrictions on the CSS and JavaScript you can use. Using unsupported CSS properties or embedding external JavaScript files without proper configuration can cause validation errors.
-
Solution: Keep your CSS concise and use only supported properties. If you need to include JavaScript, you need to follow the AMP specifications on using inline scripts or using the
amp-script
component. Minimize your reliance on external JavaScript libraries.
3. Incorrect Use of AMP Components:
-
Problem: AMP uses custom components for specific functionalities like carousels, ads, and more. Using these components improperly can lead to validation errors.
-
Solution: Make sure you're correctly implementing and configuring these components. Refer to the official AMP documentation for each component to ensure proper usage and avoid errors.
4. Issues with Images and Media:
-
Problem: Images and other media elements need to meet specific requirements in AMP. Incorrectly sized images, using unsupported image formats, or missing
alt
text can cause errors. -
Solution: Optimize your images for web performance, ensuring they are in a supported format (like JPEG or PNG) and are correctly sized. Always include descriptive
alt
text for accessibility.
5. Conflicting Themes or Plugins:
-
Problem: Conflicts between your Blogger theme or other plugins can sometimes interfere with the AMP implementation.
-
Solution: Try switching to a default theme or deactivating plugins temporarily to determine if a conflict exists. If so, look for updated versions or alternative options that are more AMP-friendly.
Troubleshooting Tips and Best Practices:
- Utilize the AMP validator: Regularly check your AMP pages using the official Google AMP validator.
- Keep your theme and plugins updated: Updates often include bug fixes and AMP compatibility improvements.
- Use the AMP helper tools: Blogger offers features to simplify the implementation of AMP.
- Test on different devices: Validate your AMP pages across various devices and screen sizes.
By diligently following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and resolve most AMP validation errors on your Blogger website. Remember, a clean AMP implementation contributes to improved search visibility and a better user experience. Happy blogging!