Google user
Original Poster
Jun 18, 2019

I need help understanding the data in the 'Sitelinks searchbox' tab

I need help understanding the data in the 'Sitelinks searchbox' tab.

As you will see in the screenshot, I have over 2k valid items, but I have no idea what this even means or what to make of this data.

I have tried reading up on this but all info always leads back to creating structure data etc (which I have done). I can't find any info to explain what these items mean and what value this is to me i.e. how do i read the this report?

Also, I understand that by adding structured data etc, this does not guarantee a search box to appear in Google search results, but rather defines the type of search box that does appear, if it is there. However, surely if Google Search Console shows this 'Sitelinks searchbox' tab with all Items valid, my site should appear with a search box in Google search?

In summary I am looking for clarity on:
1. What info is in the 'Sitelinks searchbox' tab and how is it of value i.e. what do these Valid items mean.
2. Why if all these items are valid, do I still not see a search box in Google Search?

Thanks for your time

Brand: Creative Brands
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Recommended Answer
Jun 18, 2019
It looks like the sitelinks search snippet is on many pages (possibly all?) 
 
 
eg found it on
view-source:https://www.creativebrands.co.za/gifts/2019/
 

It doesnt really matter as such, the snippet will just be irrelevant and never have any effect. The function that 'uses' this data in search result only works for homepages
 
 
From above page
Implement the WebSite structured data element on the homepage for your site.
 
 
So all the others are redundant - but pretty harmless. 
 
 
Also note that, even if your homepage has 'Valid' code, doesnt mean Google will show a search box. 
 
 
Google chooses (using a propriety algoirhtm!) if/when to show a search box. Regardless of structure data. 
 
 
The 'Valid' structure data, just makes Google 'redirect' the serach to your own, IF a search box is shown. 
Original Poster Google user marked this as an answer
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All Replies (2)
Recommended Answer
Jun 18, 2019
It looks like the sitelinks search snippet is on many pages (possibly all?) 
 
 
eg found it on
view-source:https://www.creativebrands.co.za/gifts/2019/
 

It doesnt really matter as such, the snippet will just be irrelevant and never have any effect. The function that 'uses' this data in search result only works for homepages
 
 
From above page
Implement the WebSite structured data element on the homepage for your site.
 
 
So all the others are redundant - but pretty harmless. 
 
 
Also note that, even if your homepage has 'Valid' code, doesnt mean Google will show a search box. 
 
 
Google chooses (using a propriety algoirhtm!) if/when to show a search box. Regardless of structure data. 
 
 
The 'Valid' structure data, just makes Google 'redirect' the serach to your own, IF a search box is shown. 
Original Poster Google user marked this as an answer
Google user
Original Poster
Jun 18, 2019
Thank you, I really appreciate your effort here.

That makes perfect sense!

I will remove search structured data from all pages and be patient :)
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