Summary: Fix three metrics: LCP (how fast main content appears), INP (responsiveness to interaction), and CLS (layout stability). Start with images, caching, and JavaScript.

Core Web Vitals Targets

Metric Meaning "Good" target (75th percentile)
LCP Largest element rendered ≤ 2.5 seconds
INP Interaction responsiveness ≤ 200 ms
CLS Layout shift ≤ 0.1

Measure with field data (Search Console, CrUX) and lab data (PageSpeed Insights, Lighthouse). Google may update thresholds, so check the official documentation.

Fixing LCP

  1. Images: WebP/AVIF, right-sized, srcset, compression.
  2. Do not lazy-load the hero image above the fold; add fetchpriority="high".
  3. Fast server (low TTFB): page caching, CDN, adequate hosting.
  4. Reduce render-blocking CSS/JS.
  5. Preload critical fonts and resources.

Fixing INP

  • Break up long JavaScript tasks.
  • Reduce third-party scripts (chat, tracking, ads).
  • Defer non-critical scripts.
  • Avoid excessive re-rendering in frameworks (React/Next.js): memoization, virtualizing long lists.

Fixing CLS

  • Set width and height on images/iframes/ads.
  • Reserve space for banners and embeds.
  • Use font-display: swap and fallback fonts with similar metrics.
  • Never insert content above content that is already visible.

Caching and CDN

Set cache headers for static assets (hashed files can be cached for long), enable Brotli/gzip, and use a CDN for audiences in many regions. For Next.js, use SSG/ISR on public pages (tech stack).

WordPress

Cut plugins, use a reliable cache plugin, optimize the theme, and clean the database. Excess plugins are the most common source of slowness.

How to Prove the Result

Record scores and metrics before and after. Search Console field data takes about 28 days to reflect changes.

Relationship to SEO

Speed is a light ranking signal, but its effect on conversion and bounce rate is often more tangible. Continue to technical SEO and conversion.

FAQ

Is a perfect 100 on PageSpeed required?

No. Aim to pass Core Web Vitals in field data and deliver real user experience.

What first?

Images and caching usually give the biggest result for the least effort.

Next steps

Request a free speed audit for your most important page.