What is Structured Citations? - Definition & Meaning Simplified

Structured Citations

Structured citations are formal, highly organized business listings found on dedicated online directories, data aggregators, and review platforms (such as Yelp, YellowPages, Foursquare, and the Better Business Bureau). Because these platforms are specifically designed to categorize business data, they enforce a rigid format for the Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP). Search engines rely heavily on structured citations to verify a local business’s existence and geographic location. Ensuring absolute consistency across the top 50 structured citation sources is the foundational baseline for any local SEO campaign aiming to dominate the Map Pack.

Structured Citations Simplified

Structured citations are your business’s official profiles on major directories like Yelp or YellowPages. Because these websites are massive and highly organized, Google uses them as the ultimate proof that your business is real and your address is accurate.