# Structured Data: Add Machine-Readable Context With JSON-LD

> Learn what JSON-LD structured data does and when it helps search engines interpret a page more accurately.

Canonical: https://softwareontheweb.com/tools/launch-readiness-checker/structured-data

Structured data helps machines understand entities, page types, and relationships more directly.

It should clarify the page, not decorate it with inaccurate schema.

## What It Is

Structured data is usually added as JSON-LD in the page head or body. It describes the page or entity in a schema vocabulary.

```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "WebSite",
  "name": "Software on the Web",
  "url": "https://example.com"
}
```

## Why It Matters

- It can improve interpretation of the page and brand.
- It supports eligibility for some enriched search experiences.
- It gives clearer structure to non-human systems.

## Best Practices

1. Use schema that matches the real page type.
2. Keep values consistent with visible content.
3. Prefer JSON-LD for maintainability.
4. Validate changes after deployment.

## Common Mistakes

- No schema where clear schema would help.
- Using the wrong schema type just to chase features.
- Publishing schema values that disagree with the page.

## Quick Checklist

- Relevant schema exists.
- Values are accurate.
- Visible content and structured data agree.

## Final Takeaway

Structured data works best when it is honest, simple, and tightly aligned with the page.

## Related
- [Home](https://softwareontheweb.com/)
- [Topics](https://softwareontheweb.com/topics)