If you’re trying to grow your online presence, simply ranking on Google isn’t enough anymore. The search results page has evolved, and now, standing out means showing up in SERP features like featured snippets, local packs, and more.
So, how do you get there? In this guide, we’ll explore the best SEO strategies for SERP features, explain what they are, and show you how to get your content in front of more eyes.
Let’s dive in.
First Things First: What’s in a SERP?
SERP stands for Search Engine Results Page, which is the list of results that appear when someone types a query into a search engine, such as Google. But today’s SERPs are far more dynamic than they used to be. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the SERP features.
So, What Are SERP Features?
To answer the question What Are SERP Features?, think of them as enhanced results that go beyond the traditional blue links.
They are designed to give users direct answers, shortcuts, or summaries. That includes everything from videos and reviews to definitions and lists. If your site can claim a spot in any of these, your visibility improves dramatically, even if you’re not ranking first.
From knowledge panels and image carousels to “People Also Ask” boxes and maps, Google displays information in various ways. These enhanced results are designed to provide users with answers faster, often without requiring them to click through to a website. However, for businesses, they also present a golden opportunity for visibility.
Types of SERP Features?
Understanding the types of SERP features is step one in building your strategy. Some of the most common ones include:
- Featured snippets
- People Also Ask boxes
- Local packs (maps + listings)
- Knowledge panels
- Video carousels
- Top stories/news box
- FAQs
- Image packs
Different SERP features Google displays depend on the search intent and the type of query. For example, question-based queries often show featured snippets, while location-based queries show maps. In short, each type serves a different purpose and offers a different level of visibility.
Why You Should Care About SERP Features
So, what’s in it for you?
Well, being included in SERP features SEO results can drive significantly more visibility than standard rankings and sometimes even more clicks. They help build authority, improve brand awareness, and can boost click-through rates (CTR) for certain keywords.
In short, understanding how to get SERP features is no longer optional. If you’re serious about competing online, it needs to be part of your SEO strategy.
Why SERP Features Matter for SEO in 2025
Search behaviour is evolving. Voice search, mobile browsing, and zero-click searches have all changed how users interact with results. No wonder “why SERP Features Matter for SEO in 2025” is such a timely question.
Google is constantly refining the user experience, and businesses that can adapt quickly by aligning their content with these features will have a clear competitive edge.
Also, in the revolution of AI in digital marketing, AI Overview and AI Mode prioritize the content of SERP features. So, optimization for these SERP features is very important.
Getting a feature spot means your content is trustworthy, well-structured, and exactly what Google thinks the searcher wants. And that’s the sweet spot for SEO.
SEO Strategy for SERP Features
SERP featurespull from web content that matches search intent. If your content is relevant, well-structured, and trustworthy, it has a higher chance of being picked up by Google’s algorithms.
Google chooses content based on:
- Page structure
- Schema markup
- Relevance to the query
- Authority and trust signals
This means creating helpful, easy-to-scan content pays off.
Aligning Content with SERP Features SEO
When we talk about SERP features SEO, we’re talking about tailoring your content so it meets the technical and content-related expectations of Google’s SERP features.
Simple actions that improve your chances:
- Use headings and subheadings to structure content
- Add FAQs with schema
- Use lists, tables, and definitions where possible
- Keep answers within 40–60 words for snippets
Consistency and clarity are key to winning space in the SERPs.
Tracking Your Progress
Once you start optimising, you’ll want to measure your results. Tracking SERP feature performance helps you understand which pages are gaining traction and which opportunities still exist.
Top tools like:
- SEMrush
- Ahrefs
- Moz Pro
- SERPWatcher
…can show you how your site is performing. You can also use Google Search Console to track whether your URLs are appearing in featured snippets or other special boxes.
Let’s Talk Featured Snippets
Featured snippets are often called “Position Zero.” They appear at the very top and are pulled from high-ranking content that answers a question succinctly.
And you’ve likely seen these. They look like a block of text answering a query directly at the top of the results page. They are powerful, and every SEO pro wants one.
If you want to target Google SERP featured snippets:
- Start your content with a clear, direct answer.
- Structure it clearly using subheadings (H2/H3).
- Format it in a way that Google can easily parse, like paragraphs, bullets, tables, definitions, how-to instructions, and question-answer formats.
- Use keywords naturally and match search intent closely.
How to Optimise for Featured Snippets?
You might be wondering how to optimise for featured snippets? Here’s how:
- Answer questions clearly within the first 100 words.
- Use structured headers and formatting (like tables or bullet points).
- Use schema markup (we’ll get to that in a moment).
- Identify snippet opportunities with tools like Semrush or AnswerThePublic.
- Focus on informational intent — think “how”, “why”, “what”, and “when”.
Schema: Your SEO Secret Weapon
So, what is the best schema to use for SERP features? It depends on your content type.
For example:
- Use the FAQ schema for Q&A sections.
- Use the HowTo schema for step-by-step guides.
- Use Product schema for eCommerce pages.
- Article or BlogPosting for blog content
Using the correct schema gives Google the structure it needs to feature your content. Plus, schema helps search engines understand your content and increases your chances of being selected for features like rich results or snippets.
Tools That Can Help You Win
Finally, let’s cover which tools can help track SERP features.
-
Semrush:
Great for identifying and tracking which features you own.
-
Ahrefs:
Offers a SERP feature filter and performance tracking.
-
Google Search Console:
Useful for impressions, clicks, and visibility data.
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SERPWatcher by Mangools:
Easy to track keyword and feature performance.
Final Thoughts
Getting into Google’s SERP features isn’t a guessing game. If you’re ready to implement the best SEO strategies for SERP features, Brrandom, the best Kolkata-located SEO agency is here to guide you through every step. From structured content to advanced schema, we help businesses get seen, smartly.