How to Create a Sitemap

There are two types of sitemaps. One is an HTML based page. An HTML sitemap is a single page that shows visitors all the pages, or major divisions on a website. The second type of sitemap is used by search engines and uses XML. An XML sitemap of a large commercial website can take a lot of time to identify all the pages on a website. It is best to use a sitemap generator for indexing the website.

Instructions

1. Create a sitemap from scratch by writing a plain webpage. Open the file directory and copy the page names into word or another software capable of adding a hypertext link. This type of sitemap can easily be created using Dreamweaver or other web design and development programs. Add the complete URL to each link.

2. Identify the main pages of your website clearly in your sitemap by putting them in bold or in a larger font. Simple visual clues are a very important way to make the website's user experience easier and more useful.

3. Use an online sitemap generator such as the Google Sitemap Generator. These types of sitemaps are used by search engines to correctly index your website and increase the numbers of visitors to your website. These sort of sitemaps are critical to commercial websites.

4. Develop a sitemap using your website development software. This is the same software you use to create your website. Many website development software programs can create an XML sitemap for you. This is the simplest method. Check the help files on your program and follow the specific directions.

5. Use the sitemap protocol for generating a large sitemap which can be submitted to numerous search engines. Access to the root directory of the web server is required. This type of sitemap should be created and posted by an experienced webmaster.

Resources

• Google sitemap generator