optimising-cumulative-layout-shift-wordpress

Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS) is a crucial metric for user experience, measuring the stability of web page elements during loading. In WordPress, optimising CLS is essential for ensuring a seamless and frustration-free browsing experience for your visitors. Let’s explore effective strategies to optimise CLS on your WordPress website.

Prioritise Loading Critical CSS

Critical CSS contains styles necessary for rendering above-the-fold content. Loading it first minimises the likelihood of layout shifts.

  • Inline Critical CSS: Embed critical CSS directly into the HTML document to ensure it loads with the initial page render.

Optimise and Preload Web Fonts

Unoptimised web fonts can cause layout shifts as they load. Preloading fonts and optimising them are crucial steps.

  • Preload Fonts: Add the rel="preload" attribute to the font stylesheet link in your HTML head to prioritise font loading.
  • Optimise Font Formats: Convert fonts to more efficient formats (e.g., WOFF2) using tools like Font Squirrel or Transfonter.

Set Dimensions for Images and Media

Images and media without specified dimensions can trigger layout shifts as they load. Always define width and height attributes.

  • Explicit Width and Height: Add width and height attributes to image tags to reserve space before the actual content loads.
  • Use Responsive Images: Implement the srcset attribute for responsive images to load the appropriate size based on the user’s device.

Read: The Most Important Core Web Vitals Metrics

Lazy Load Images and Media

Implementing lazy loading delays the loading of off-screen images until the user is about to see them, reducing initial page render CLS.

  • Native HTML Lazy Loading: For modern browsers, consider using the loading="lazy" attribute directly in your image tags.

Avoid Dynamically Injected Content

Content injected dynamically after the initial page load can cause unexpected layout shifts. Ensure that dynamically added elements do not affect the page layout.

  • Reserve Space: If dynamic content is unavoidable, reserve space for it in the layout to prevent sudden shifts.
  • Use Placeholder Elements: Display placeholder elements with dimensions matching the expected content size until the actual content loads.

Optimise Third-Party Scripts

Third-party scripts, if not optimised, can significantly impact CLS. Evaluate and streamline their usage.

  • Asynchronous Loading: Load third-party scripts asynchronously to prevent them from blocking other page elements.
  • Minify and Concatenate: Minify and concatenate scripts where possible to reduce their overall impact on page load.

Utilise CSS Transitions and Animations Wisely

CSS transitions and animations can cause layout shifts. Optimise their usage and consider utilising transform-based animations.

  • Transform Property: Use the transform property for animations, as it doesn’t trigger layout recalculations.
  • Avoid Sudden Changes: If using transitions, avoid abrupt changes in size or position to minimise layout shifts.

Monitor and Analyse With Web Vitals Tools

Regularly monitor your site’s performance using Web Vitals tools to identify and address CLS issues.

  • Chrome DevTools: Leverage the Lighthouse performance audit tool within Chrome DevTools for in-depth analysis.

Optimise Theme and Plugin Code

Review and optimise the code of your WordPress theme and plugins to ensure they contribute positively to page loading and layout stability.

  • Code Quality: Ensure that your theme and plugins adhere to best practices and are optimised for performance.
  • Limit Unnecessary Features: Disable or remove any theme or plugin features that contribute to unnecessary layout shifts.

Regularly Test Across Devices and Browsers

Perform cross-browser and cross-device testing to identify potential CLS variations and ensure a consistent user experience.

  • Responsive Design: Confirm that your site maintains layout stability on different devices and screen sizes.
  • Browser Compatibility: Test your site across various browsers to catch any CLS discrepancies.

Read: Scaling Your Agency With A White-Label SEO Provider In London

To Sum Up

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly optimise Cumulative Layout Shift on your WordPress website, enhancing user experience and positively impacting your site’s performance metrics. Regularly reassess your site’s CLS performance and adjust strategies as needed to ensure a smooth and visually stable browsing experience for your visitors.

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