Topic Authority (Google)

Topic Authority is a specific algorithmic system, officially confirmed by Google in 2023, designed to determine the most expert, authoritative sources for news and informational queries within a specific subject area. The system evaluates three primary signals: the prominence of a source for a specific topic (e.g., a local newspaper reporting on a local election), the original reporting provided by the source, and the reputation of the source based on journalistic awards and historical accuracy. Establishing Topic Authority requires a relentless, narrow focus on publishing deeply researched, original content within a single, defined industry vertical.

Topic Authority (Google) Simplified

Topic Authority is how Google decides who the absolute best expert is on a specific subject. If you write 500 amazing articles about “roofing,” Google’s computers officially recognize you as the ultimate roofing expert and will rank your articles above massive news sites that only write about roofing once a year.