Should You Really Stop Trying to Understand Google's Algorithms to Do Better SEO?

Official statement

When an internet user asked him a question about the "LSTM" algorithm (which we still haven't fully understood what it's about), John Mueller explained on Twitter that you should work on a website in a "natural" way, without trying to understand at every moment how Google's algorithm works, its updates, etc...

Source : Search Engine Roundtable

What you need to understand

What's the Context Behind This Statement from Google?

John Mueller responded to a question from an internet user concerning the LSTM algorithm on Twitter. His recommendation is clear: work on your website in a "natural" way without constantly trying to decode every algorithmic evolution from Google.

This position fits within Google's usual communication approach that encourages webmasters to focus on content quality and user experience rather than on pure technical optimization.

What Does Working "Naturally" Actually Mean for Google?

For Google, a "natural" approach means creating content for users first and foremost. This involves answering visitors' questions, offering smooth navigation, and publishing relevant and up-to-date information.

The underlying idea is to not over-optimize or artificially manipulate ranking signals. Google prefers sites to develop organically based on users' real needs.

Why Does Google Encourage This Approach Rather Than Technical Understanding?

Google's algorithms have become extremely complex with the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence. Hundreds of ranking factors interact dynamically and contextually.

This complexity makes reverse engineering virtually impossible. Google also wants to prevent SEOs from focusing on exploiting algorithmic loopholes at the expense of real quality.

Algorithmic complexity has increased exponentially with AI
Reverse engineering updates has become ineffective
Google prioritizes a user-centered approach rather than a technical one
Ranking signals vary depending on context and query

SEO Expert opinion

Is This Recommendation from Google Really Applicable in Practice?

John Mueller's position is partially idealistic. Certainly, algorithmic complexity makes comprehensive understanding of Google's functioning difficult. But totally ignoring SEO mechanisms would be like navigating blindly.

In reality, an intelligent balance is necessary. SEO practitioners must understand fundamental principles (indexing, crawling, technical structure) while avoiding obsession over every algorithmic micro-signal.

Warning: Following only the advice "work naturally" without any SEO knowledge can lead to major technical errors (indexing problems, cannibalization, poor internal linking) that will penalize your visibility even with excellent content.

What Are the Limitations of the "Natural" Approach Being Advocated?

The natural approach works well for editorial content and user experience. But it doesn't cover fundamental technical aspects: URL structure, structured data, loading speed, information architecture.

Without minimal SEO understanding, a site can have excellent content but remain invisible. Technical basics aren't intuitive and require specific expertise that doesn't come "naturally".

When Does Algorithmic Analysis Remain Relevant?

Analyzing general algorithmic trends remains valuable. Observing the effects of Core Updates, understanding the evolution toward E-E-A-T or the growing importance of Core Web Vitals allows you to anticipate Google's priorities.

The difference is looking for guiding principles rather than magic formulas. Patterns observed across thousands of sites after an update reveal exploitable strategic directions, unlike reverse engineering individual signals.

Practical impact and recommendations

How Can You Concretely Apply This Balanced Approach?

The optimal strategy consists of mastering SEO fundamentals without falling into algorithmic obsession. Establish a solid technical foundation then focus on creating real value for your visitors.

Invest in understanding your audience: what questions are they asking? What problems are they trying to solve? This user-centered approach naturally aligns with Google's objectives.

What Mistakes Should You Absolutely Avoid?

The main mistake would be to totally neglect technical aspects under the pretext of being "natural". A poorly structured, slow or non-crawlable site will remain invisible even with exceptional content.

Conversely, avoid over-optimizing every detail based on algorithmic assumptions. This approach is time-consuming, often ineffective and can create artificial content that degrades user experience.

Common Trap: Believing you must choose between technical approach and natural approach. Both are complementary and necessary for a high-performing SEO strategy.

What Strategy Should You Adopt for Sustainable and Effective SEO?

Build your strategy on robust technical foundations then let content develop naturally according to your audience's needs. This dual approach maximizes your chances of long-term success.

Regularly audit your technical performance while evaluating the relevance and engagement of your content. Analytics and Search Console data will guide you better than algorithmic hypotheses.

Establish a solid technical foundation: crawlability, indexing, speed, mobile-first
Implement structured data relevant to your sector
Create content that addresses your audience's real search intents
Optimize user experience: intuitive navigation, responsive design, loading time
Analyze engagement metrics rather than seeking algorithmic signals
Follow Core Updates to identify general trends, not details
Prioritize quality and expertise (E-E-A-T) in your content
Avoid over-optimization and attempts at algorithmic manipulation

In Summary: Google's recommendation to work "naturally" contains some truth but shouldn't lead to ignoring SEO fundamentals. The optimal approach combines solid technical mastery with authentic content creation centered on the user. This dual competency is complex to develop and maintain. For businesses wanting to maximize their organic visibility without mobilizing significant internal resources, support from a specialized SEO agency can prove strategic. External experts provide both sharp technical expertise and the necessary perspective to build a balanced and sustainable strategy.