I'm trying to decide on the best URL structure for my articles. I need to keep a reference number (like 12345) at the beginning of the URL to avoid issues with truncated links, and I also want to include a page number at the end (like /2 or /3). I'm torn between using a dash or a slash as the separator between the reference number and the slug content, which is important for both user sharing and SEO. What's considered the best practice nowadays?
2 Answers
Go with the first one! Slugs are meant to be user-friendly, but they shouldn't dictate routing. Both urls should work fine: /news/12345-slug-here-blah-blah/2 and /news/12345/2. Also, consider using something like /news/12345-slug-here-blah-blah/page/2 for clarity. Ultimately, though, if you use JSON-LD structured data on your page, the exact URL might not even matter that much for SEO.
I think the first option is better—using /news/12345-slug-here-blah-blah/2. The second option feels like it suggests there are multiple articles under "12345". Keeping the structure simple and straightforward is key.
Exactly, that was my thought too.
Totally agree with you!
It's interesting that you suggest that. I'm debating whether /page/2 or /2 is better for clarity.