Content revised 21 October 2026.
A permalink is a persistent address for content. Choose a readable structure, but avoid changing established URLs merely to add another keyword.
Use descriptive paths
A sensible slug helps people understand the destination. Keep it relevant to the page and avoid unnecessary repeated terms. A long address does not automatically make a useful article invisible, and shortening one is not a ranking guarantee.
Plan changes as a migration
Inventory the old addresses, new destinations and internal references. Use appropriate redirects when content genuinely moves and update important links and sitemap entries. Test representative routes directly.
Keep technical signals aligned
Check canonical instructions and the public URL reached after redirects. Avoid several equivalent addresses drifting into different navigation paths. A CMS setting can affect many pages, so review the scope before applying it.
Preserve established history
An old dated slug may be worth retaining while the article receives an honest revision. The visible title can explain the updated purpose. Keep a backup and record the reason for any address change.
Official guidance: Google URL structure guidance.