Learn how to write for Google News with expert guidelines, SEO tips, and approval strategies to get featured and boost visibility in 2025.
Appearing in Google News is a game-changer for content creators, publishers, journalists, and bloggers aiming to increase visibility and establish trust online. But writing for Google News isn’t as simple as publishing a blog post—it demands adherence to editorial standards, solid technical setup, and content structured in a way that meets Google’s newsworthiness criteria.
This comprehensive guide will teach you how to write for Google News, structure your content to meet Google News submission guidelines, and submit your site through Google Publisher Center. Whether you’re running a personal blog or a full-fledged news website, this article provides everything you need to know to get started—and succeed.
What Is Google News and How Does It Work?
Google News is a content aggregation platform that delivers news articles from verified sources based on user interests, locations, and global trends. It powers the News tab in Google Search, Top Stories carousel, and Google Discover. By getting featured, your site benefits from significantly increased traffic, enhanced authority, and better engagement.
Why Getting Featured in Google News Matters
Increased traffic from users actively seeking fresh content
Authority boost as Google prioritizes credible sources
Higher click-through rates due to visual placements
Trust signals that improve your site’s SEO overall
Eligibility for monetization via Google Ads or Google News Showcase
Getting on Google News
Now that you understand the benefits, let’s talk about how to actually get your content on Google News.
Google doesn’t automatically include every site in its news listings. While Google’s algorithm may discover high-quality sites on its own over time, proactively submitting your website to Google News through the Publisher Center significantly increases your chances of being featured.
Getting on Google News requires a multi-pronged approach involving:
- Publishing timely and original news content
- Following a journalistic writing format
- Maintaining editorial transparency (author bylines, contact pages, about sections)
- Optimizing your website technically (sitemap, schema, HTTPS, mobile responsive)
- Submitting through Google Publisher Center with proper section setup
To be successful, your website must consistently meet Google News content policies, use appropriate news article formatting, and offer valuable information to the public. Whether you’re a blog, online magazine, or full-fledged media outlet, the goal is to demonstrate newsworthiness, reliability, and technical readiness.
In the following sections, we’ll break down each requirement in detail so you can optimize your content and site structure for approval.
Who Can Write for Google News?
You don’t need to be a journalist to write for Google News—but you do need to think like one. Content creators, independent publishers, news bloggers, and digital magazines can all qualify—if they meet the guidelines.
You must consistently produce original, high-quality news content, show editorial transparency, and demonstrate a clear editorial mission. Blogs can be accepted too, but opinion content, personal reflections, or overly promotional pieces are generally rejected unless clearly labeled.
Google News Writing Guidelines: Editorial Standards Explained
Before diving into the technical aspects of getting featured in Google News, it’s important to understand the editorial standards that must be met. These guidelines ensure that the content submitted is of high quality, relevant, and follows journalistic integrity. Google places a strong emphasis on credibility and authenticity—your articles need to uphold these standards to even be considered for inclusion.
The guidelines break down into two broad categories: content quality and site technical setup. While creating a website or article that meets these expectations may take some time, following the rules will ultimately lead to higher chances of success.
How to Create a Website for Google News?
To successfully submit your website to Google News, your site must be optimized both in terms of content and technical structure. Google expects sites in their News section to offer a professional appearance and a clear focus on news reporting. Here’s how to set up your website to meet Google’s News requirements:
1. Design and User Experience
A website that is hard to navigate or overwhelming can deter visitors and will also hurt your chances of approval. Your site should feature:
- Clean, intuitive navigation: Make it easy for visitors to find news stories by using clear headings and organized content sections (e.g., Politics, Business, Local, World).
- Ad-free experience: While ads are allowed, your site should prioritize user experience by avoiding intrusive pop-ups or excessive ads that distract from the news.
2. News Sections and Categorization
Google News evaluates how you categorize content. A dedicated “News” section is a must. Organize your content into relevant categories such as:
- Local news
- International news
- Sports
- Business and technology updates
- Entertainment
Each category should reflect fresh, regularly updated content that is aligned with your editorial mission.
3. Author Information and Editorial Transparency
Each article on your site should include a clear author byline and, if possible, an author bio. This helps Google establish credibility and authorship attribution. Google values transparency, so always include an About Us and Contact page to provide insight into your editorial team and publication.
4. Technical Setup and Site Architecture
Ensure your site is optimized for both performance and crawlability:
- HTTPS encryption: Google prioritizes secure websites (https://).
- Mobile responsiveness: Given the rise of mobile users, your website must be fully responsive. Test it using Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test tool.
- Structured Data: Implement schema.org markup for NewsArticle, Author, and Publisher to help Google better understand your content.
- Google News XML Sitemap: Create a dedicated sitemap specifically for news articles that are updated frequently. This enables Google to easily discover your fresh content.
5. Consistent Publishing Schedule
To be considered for Google News, you must show a consistent publishing schedule. Google wants to feature sites that publish high-quality, timely content on a regular basis, whether it’s daily, several times a week, or multiple times a day.
How Do You Write a Google News Article?
Once your website is set up, the next step is ensuring your articles meet Google News’ editorial standards. Writing for Google News isn’t the same as writing a regular blog post. News articles must follow journalistic conventions and present information clearly, concisely, and accurately.
Here’s how to structure your Google News articles:
1. Headline Structure and SEO Optimization
Your headline is the first impression Google News and readers will have of your article. Craft a clear, concise, and informative headline that accurately reflects the content. Headlines should be:
- Straightforward and accurate
- Include relevant keywords without keyword stuffing
- Under 110 characters in length
- Descriptive enough to convey the essence of the story
For example, instead of “Apple Makes Big Changes,” use “Apple Announces Major iPhone 17 Features at WWDC 2025.”
2. News Article Format: The Inverted Pyramid
A standard journalistic format that works well for Google News is the inverted pyramid. This means you should begin your article with the most important information and follow with additional context and supporting details. This helps readers get the key facts right away.
- Lead: Include the most important facts (Who, What, When, Where, Why).
- Body: Expand on the story, offering details, quotes, and background information.
- Conclusion: Summarize or add any final thoughts or analysis.
3. Write with a Neutral and Factual Tone
Google prioritizes neutral, factual reporting. Avoid sensationalism, subjective opinions, or biased language. Stick to presenting facts, supporting claims with credible sources.
4. Source Attribution and Fact-Checking
All factual claims must be properly sourced. For example, if you’re reporting on a political event, include quotes from credible figures or official documents. Link back to original sources wherever possible, especially when citing statistics or external studies.
5. Article Length and Structure
Articles should be between 350–1000 words, concise yet informative. Break the content into short, digestible paragraphs. Use subheadings to organize the content, improving readability both for users and search engines.
6. Adding Multimedia Elements
Incorporate relevant images, charts, or videos to support your article and engage readers. Make sure all multimedia elements are properly attributed, include descriptive alt text, and are optimized for fast loading times.
7. Include Bylines and Dates
Every article should display the author’s name, a publication date, and, ideally, an update date. This helps Google understand the freshness of your content and increases credibility.
With these techniques in mind, your articles will have the best chance of being accepted by Google News. Maintaining a high standard of quality journalism and creating content that’s both engaging and reliable is key.
Writing Newsworthy Content: What Google News Looks For
When writing for Google News, the most important factor is whether your content is newsworthy. Google’s algorithm evaluates news stories based on multiple signals, with freshness, relevance, and credibility being key aspects of what it looks for in a story. So, what exactly makes a piece of content “newsworthy”?
Relevance to Current Events
Google News prioritizes stories that cover timely and significant events. These can be local or global, but they should align with what people are searching for at any given moment. Your content should cover recent developments, breaking news, or new trends that are of interest to a wide audience.
For example, if there’s a political election happening in your country, articles detailing candidate positions, voting results, or political analysis will be considered newsworthy. Stories should reflect what’s trending in your particular industry or niche.
Originality and Uniqueness
To stand out in Google News, your content must be original. Google rewards publishers who offer new, unique perspectives on stories. Rewriting content from other sites or producing copycat articles won’t help your case. Google values authentic journalism, so ensure that your writing brings fresh insights or first-hand reporting to the table.
Credibility and Expertise
Google looks for authoritative voices when considering which content to promote. Writers must demonstrate their expertise in the subject matter they’re covering. This could involve using well-sourced data, quoting credible individuals or organizations, or providing links to reputable studies or research.
Articles that provide balanced, well-researched content are more likely to be indexed by Google News and can also gain greater trust from readers.
Best Practices for Writing Google News Articles
Writing for Google News is an art and a science. To improve your chances of ranking high in news search results, you must follow Google’s best practices for news writing. These include the following:
1. Craft Compelling Headlines
Your headline is the first point of contact between your content and the reader. For Google News, headlines should be both SEO-friendly and descriptive of the content. Focus on the following:
- Use relevant keywords without overstuffing
- Ensure the headline is concise and to the point (ideally under 110 characters)
- Include the main subject of the article for clarity
A good headline should summarize the core of the story and include power words like “exclusive,” “breaking,” or “update” where appropriate to convey urgency.
2. Write in a Journalistic Style
Google News favors articles that follow a journalistic writing style—primarily using the inverted pyramid structure. Begin with the most important details of the story, followed by supporting information and background.
- Lead: Answer the most critical questions (who, what, where, when, why).
- Body: Provide more detailed information, facts, and quotes.
- Tail: Include less essential details or conclusions, if needed.
This structure makes it easy for readers to get the essential facts quickly, while also allowing them to dive deeper if they wish.
3. Use Accurate and Credible Sources
Citing authoritative sources is key to creating trustworthy content. Avoid using unverified or sensationalized information. Link to primary sources wherever possible, and quote experts, public figures, or official reports to back up your claims.
4. Prioritize Freshness and Timeliness
Google News is a tool for real-time information. This means that stories need to be current and timely. If you’re covering breaking news, aim to publish your articles as quickly as possible while still ensuring accuracy. Google favors sites that keep their content updated with the latest developments.
5. Optimize for Mobile Devices
A mobile-friendly layout is a must. Most users access Google News on their smartphones, so make sure your articles are easy to read on any screen size. Use legible fonts, appropriate image sizes, and clear navigation to ensure that your content is as accessible as possible.
6. Avoid Clickbait
While compelling headlines are necessary, avoid resorting to clickbait tactics—exaggerated, misleading, or sensational headlines that don’t align with the actual article content. Google will penalize sites that consistently use this approach.
How to Submit Your Site to Google News Using Google Publisher Center
Once you’ve built your website and started publishing high-quality news content, the next step is to submit your site to Google News for inclusion.
Here’s how you can do that using Google Publisher Center:
Step 1: Sign In to Google Publisher Center
The first step in submitting your site is to create or log into your Google Publisher Center account. This is the platform Google uses to review, manage, and approve websites for inclusion in Google News. You can access it through the following link: Google Publisher Center.
Step 2: Add Your Publication
Click on “Add a publication” in the Publisher Center dashboard. Here, you’ll be prompted to provide details about your site, such as:
- The publication name
- Your website URL
- Content language
It’s important to make sure all of this information is accurate, as Google will use these details to evaluate your site.
Step 3: Submit Your Sitemap
After your site is added, the next step is to submit your news sitemap. This is a critical part of the process, as Google uses this sitemap to know which pages to index. Make sure to include a sitemap that highlights your latest news stories and is updated frequently. You can also specify categories of content in your sitemap, such as sports, politics, or entertainment, to make it easier for Google to categorize your content.
Step 4: Set Up Sections for Your News Site
In Publisher Center, you’ll need to set up sections for your publication. These sections help Google categorize your articles into relevant topics (e.g., Local News, World News, Business). Set up the sections by specifying the topic and feed URL for each one.
Step 5: Review and Submit for Approval
Before submitting, review all the settings and ensure your content meets Google’s News content policies. If everything looks good, submit your site for review. The review process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If your site meets Google’s guidelines, it will be accepted and featured in Google News.
Step 6: Monitor and Optimize Your Performance
Once your site is approved and featured in Google News, continue to monitor your performance using the Publisher Center. You’ll have access to valuable insights and traffic data to see how your articles are performing and where you can optimize your content further.
Common Google News Rejection Reasons and How to Fix Them
Getting your site accepted by Google News isn’t guaranteed, and there are several common reasons why applications may be rejected. Understanding these reasons and how to fix them can drastically improve your chances of getting approved.
1. Lack of Originality
Google News prioritizes original content that provides new perspectives on stories. If your articles simply rehash information from other sources without adding any unique value, your site could be rejected.
How to Fix It:
- Ensure your articles bring new insights, first-hand reporting, or exclusive updates.
- Focus on creating in-depth reports and analysis rather than just summarizing what’s already out there.
- Link to credible sources when citing information to establish authority.
2. Poor Website Design or User Experience
A site that’s difficult to navigate, cluttered with ads, or poorly designed will likely be rejected. Google values websites that provide a clean, professional layout that’s easy to navigate.
How to Fix It:
- Ensure your website design is mobile-friendly and uses clear, accessible navigation.
- Avoid intrusive pop-up ads that disrupt the user experience.
- Have a dedicated news section and ensure your content is organized by topic (e.g., Sports, Politics, Business).
3. Insufficient Content Updates or Frequency
Google News favors sites that publish content regularly. Sites that lack fresh content or don’t update their articles frequently are less likely to be accepted.
How to Fix It:
- Create a consistent posting schedule. Even if you only publish once a day, maintaining a regular flow of new articles will demonstrate that your site is actively updated.
- Aim to publish timely, relevant content on current events and trending topics.
4. Low-Quality Content or Spelling/Grammar Issues
Content that contains numerous spelling, grammar, or factual errors undermines the credibility of your website and makes it less likely to be featured in Google News.
How to Fix It:
- Proofread your articles carefully or use grammar-checking tools.
- Focus on high-quality journalism, ensuring that your content is well-written, factual, and credible.
- Consider fact-checking before publishing any data or quotes.
5. Incomplete or Missing Author Information
Google requires author bios and bylines to verify the authenticity of your content. Sites without clear attribution to authors or editorial teams often face rejection.
How to Fix It:
- Ensure that each article has a visible byline and author bio that links to a profile page with information about the writer’s background and expertise.
- Provide clear contact information for editorial inquiries to show transparency.
Does Google News Accept Blogs?
Many bloggers wonder if Google News accepts blog posts, and the answer is yes—but with conditions. While Google News initially catered primarily to traditional news organizations, it now features a wide range of publishers, including independent bloggers and content creators, as long as they meet certain editorial and technical guidelines.
Criteria for Blog Acceptance
1. Content Quality: Your blog must feature original, well-researched articles that cover newsworthy topics. Opinion-based posts or personal blogs are less likely to be accepted unless they provide significant value or insight into a newsworthy event.
2. Frequency and Consistency: Google News prefers websites that publish content regularly. If your blog posts only sporadically, it may not be accepted. Regularly updated news content is essential.
3. Author Attribution and Transparency: Clear author bylines and editorial transparency are crucial for approval. Your blog must show that it’s operated by a team of journalists or experts (even if it’s a solo operation).
4. Website Design and Functionality: Your blog should have a professional design, a dedicated news section, and a mobile-friendly layout. Avoid excessive ads or poor user experiences.
5. Reputable Sources and Credibility: Use credible sources and cite verified information. Google News values blogs that provide reliable, accurate reporting on important events.
In summary, Google News does accept blogs, but they must meet the same editorial standards as traditional news sites. If you can produce original, authoritative content consistently, there’s no reason why your blog can’t be featured.
Local News: A Hidden Gem for Google News Publishers
While many publishers focus on national or global news, local news offers unique advantages for Google News publishers. If you’re considering submitting your site for Google News inclusion, creating content focused on your local area can help you stand out from the competition.
Why Local News Works
1. High Search Demand: People are often searching for local updates, from city council meetings to weather events, sports games, and local government actions. This gives you an opportunity to cater to a highly targeted audience.
2. Less Competition: National or international stories tend to be oversaturated, whereas local news typically has less competition. This makes it easier to rank well in Google News for local stories.
3. Community Engagement: Local content builds a sense of community. By providing relevant news for a specific audience, your publication becomes a trusted source within that locality.
4. Unique Insights and Focus: Local news stories often don’t get the same coverage in larger outlets. By focusing on niche local events, your site can fill a gap and become a go-to resource.
Tips for Local News Publishers
- Use Local SEO: Optimize your content for geo-specific keywords to help Google understand the focus of your news stories (e.g., “New York City Traffic Update,” or “San Francisco Mayor Election Results”).
- Build Relationships with Local Sources: Create connections with local government officials, community leaders, and small business owners to gain access to unique story ideas and local news insights.
- Incorporate Local Multimedia: Enhance your stories with local images, maps, and videos to better engage your community and attract more views.
By embracing local news, you can not only increase your chances of getting into Google News but also carve out a loyal audience.
Additional Tips to Increase Approval Chances
Getting your website approved for Google News requires more than just publishing quality content. Here are a few additional tips that can improve your chances:
1. Regularly Monitor Google News Guidelines
Google’s news policies evolve, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with any changes. Check the Google News Publisher Help page regularly for updates and ensure that your site adheres to any new requirements.
2. Optimize Your Articles for SEO
Optimize your articles for search engines to make them more discoverable. Use relevant keywords in the headline, body, and meta description. This increases your chances of ranking higher in Google News and Google Search results.
3. Focus on Authoritative Content
Articles that are well-researched, credible, and fact-checked stand out. Always cite reputable sources and avoid spreading unverified information, as Google places a high emphasis on fact-based reporting.
4. Increase Engagement with Your Audience
The more engagement your content gets (e.g., comments, social shares, time spent on page), the more likely Google will view your site as relevant and trustworthy. Consider integrating social media sharing buttons and comment sections to encourage user interaction.
5. Check Your Site’s Technical Health
Before submitting your site to Google News, check that it’s free from any technical issues. Use tools like Google Search Console to look for indexing problems, slow load times, and mobile usability issues. Ensure that your site loads quickly and is free from broken links.
FAQ: get published on Google News
When submitting your site to Google News, many questions often arise. Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify common doubts and help guide you through the process.
1. How Do I Get My Site Accepted on Google News?
Getting accepted into Google News involves adhering to Google’s editorial standards and submitting your site via the Google Publisher Center. Your content must be newsworthy, original, and consistently updated. Ensure that your site offers a clean design, features credible sources, and has clear author attribution. Following these guidelines will increase your chances of approval.
2. How Often Should I Update My News Content for Google News?
Google News prefers content that’s consistently updated. Aim to publish fresh articles at least once a day, especially if you’re covering breaking news or current events. Regular updates signal to Google that your site is active and authoritative, improving your visibility in search results.
3. Can I Include Blog Posts in Google News?
Yes, Google News does accept blogs, but only if the content meets the same editorial standards as traditional news sites. Your blog must provide timely, credible, and original reporting on newsworthy topics. Opinion pieces or personal blogs may not be accepted unless they are exceptionally informative and offer unique insights on current events.
4. What Types of Content Are Excluded from Google News?
Certain types of content are excluded from Google News, including:
- Pseudoscience or unverified claims
- Clickbait headlines
- Excessive ads or content with poor user experience
- Low-quality or plagiarized content
If your site includes these types of content, it is unlikely to be accepted into Google News.
5. Does Google News Pay for Featured Content?
Google News does not pay publishers for appearing in its news feed. However, ad revenue can be generated through Google AdSense and other monetization strategies once your site is approved. Your organic traffic will likely increase, leading to potential revenue opportunities from ads.
Final Thoughts: Write With Credibility, Submit With Confidence
Getting featured in Google News is a significant milestone for any digital publisher. Not only does it increase your website’s visibility, but it also positions your site as a trusted source of news in your niche. By following the Google News guidelines, producing high-quality journalism, and ensuring your site is both user-friendly and mobile-optimized, you can greatly increase your chances of approval.
Write With Credibility
Above all, remember that credibility is key. Google News prioritizes content from sources that have established themselves as trustworthy and authoritative. Whether you’re writing about local events or global developments, it’s essential to provide accurate, well-sourced, and balanced reporting. Building your reputation as a reliable source will not only help your site gain approval from Google but also help you build a loyal audience.
Submit With Confidence
Once you’ve crafted original, credible content and optimized your site for both SEO and user experience, it’s time to submit your site through the Google Publisher Center. Ensure all the details—such as your site’s name, feed URLs, and category selections—are complete and accurate. Submit your site with confidence, knowing that you’ve put in the work to meet Google’s standards.
The approval process can take some time, but don’t get discouraged. If your site isn’t accepted initially, review Google’s feedback, make the necessary adjustments, and resubmit. As long as you stay committed to producing high-quality, newsworthy content, your chances of being featured in Google News will only grow.
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