How to Reduce Cumulative Layout Shift on Your Website
Cumulative layout shift (CLS) is the amount of movement or change in visual elements when a page loads. A higher CLS score can negatively impact your website's visibility and user engagement. In this article, we will explore how to reduce CLS on your website.
What Causes CLS?
- The most common cause of CLS is the difference in loading times between images and other page elements.
- Another major contributor is the use of third-party scripts and plugins that load asynchronously.
To reduce CLS, you need to ensure that all elements on your website load at the same time. Here are some strategies you can implement:
- Use a content delivery network (CDN) to speed up image loading times.
- Use lazy loading for non-essential images and scripts.
- Implement a page-speed optimisation tool, such as Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix, to identify areas for improvement.
The impact of CLS on your website's performance cannot be overstated. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce CLS and improve the overall user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cumulative layout shift?
Cumulative layout shift (CLS) refers to the amount of movement or change in visual elements when a page loads.
How can I reduce CLS on my website?
To reduce CLS, ensure that all elements on your website load at the same time. Implement strategies such as using a content delivery network (CDN), lazy loading for non-essential images and scripts, and page-speed optimisation tools.
What are the consequences of high CLS scores?
High CLS scores can negatively impact your website's visibility and user engagement. They may also lead to a decrease in search engine rankings and loss of trust from users.