---
title: "Search Console research and methods"
description: "Assess published Search Console findings by their measurement dates, sample, and denominator. Reproduce the examples before applying a headline to your own reports."
canonical_url: "https://gscdump.com/learn-google-search-console/research"
last_updated: "2026-09-11"
---

A Search Console study can help you ask a better question about your reports. Start with what it measured, when it collected the data, and which sites it included.

## Query gaps: what does the percentage count?

Our [query gaps research](/learn-google-search-console/research/gsc-data-loss-study) compares Ahrefs' published findings with Google's documented reporting rules. It separates a share of clicks from a count of hidden queries, and includes a downloadable example showing why site averages differ from pooled results.

The article uses the observation dates stated by each source. A study published in 2026 can describe data collected in 2025.

## How to use the evidence

Follow the original source before reusing a reported result. Check whether its method matches the comparison you want to make. Google's documentation defines report behaviour; an external sample describes the sites that study examined.

The reporting-gaps article includes a dated correction withdrawing our earlier 72-site findings. Their original inputs could not be located, so they no longer support published benchmarks. The replacement calculation is clearly labelled synthetic and can be reproduced without customer data.

If you need to troubleshoot your own table now, use the [missing-row guide](/learn-google-search-console/limits/1000-row-limit). Use the research article when you need to assess a percentage or design a repeatable comparison.

## Sitemap

See the full [sitemap](/sitemap.md) for all pages.