First Contentful Paint (FCP) is a critical metric in web performance that measures the time it takes for the first piece of content to be rendered on the screen. In 2024, as user expectations for faster loading times continue to rise, optimising FCP has become more crucial than ever for delivering a seamless user experience. This article outlines ten effective strategies to improve FCP and enhance overall website performance.
What is a good FCP score?
A good First Contentful Paint (FCP) score typically falls within the range of 0 to 1 second. However, the specific definition of a "good" score can vary depending on the context and user expectations. In general, a good FCP score indicates that the first piece of content on a webpage is rendered quickly, providing users with a fast initial loading experience. Websites aiming for optimal performance should strive to achieve FCP scores as close to zero as possible.
What is a bad FCP score?
A bad First Contentful Paint (FCP) score usually exceeds 2 seconds, although again, this can depend on the context and user expectations. A high FCP score indicates that users are experiencing significant delays in seeing any content appear on the screen after navigating to a webpage. Websites with bad FCP scores may suffer from poor user experience, high bounce rates, and decreased engagement. It's crucial for website owners to address issues leading to a bad FCP score to improve overall performance.
Optimise the Critical Rendering Path
The Critical Rendering Path (CRP) is the sequence of steps the browser takes to render content on the screen. Optimising CRP involves minimising render-blocking resources such as CSS and JavaScript. Utilise techniques like code splitting, lazy loading, and asynchronous loading to prioritise the loading of essential content and improve FCP.
Compress and Minify Assets
Large file sizes can significantly impact FCP by increasing loading times. Compress and minify all assets, including images, CSS, and JavaScript files, to reduce their size without compromising quality. Use tools like ImageOptim for images and minification plugins for code to achieve optimal compression.
Prioritise Above-the-Fold Content
Above-the-fold content refers to the portion of the webpage that is visible without scrolling. Prioritise the loading of critical above-the-fold content to ensure users can access essential information quickly. Inline critical CSS and preload important resources to expedite rendering and improve FCP.
Implement Responsive Image Loading
Images often contribute to longer loading times, especially on devices with smaller screens or slower connections. Implement responsive image loading techniques such as srcset and sizes attributes to serve appropriately sized images based on the user's device and viewport size. This reduces unnecessary bandwidth usage and accelerates FCP.
Leverage Browser Caching
Browser caching allows resources to be stored locally on the user's device, reducing the need to re-download them on subsequent visits. Set cache headers for static assets to leverage browser caching effectively. This ensures that returning visitors experience faster loading times and improved FCP.
Opt for a Content Delivery Network (CDN)
A Content Delivery Network (CDN) distributes website assets across multiple servers worldwide, reducing the distance between users and the server. Utilise a CDN to deliver content from the nearest server to the user, minimising latency and improving FCP, particularly for global audiences.
Reduce Server Response Time (TTFB)
The Time to First Byte (TTFB) measures the time it takes for the browser to receive the first byte of data from the server. Optimise server response times by upgrading hosting plans, optimising database queries, and enabling server-side caching. A faster TTFB accelerates the overall loading process and enhances FCP.
Enable Browser Preloading
Browser preloading allows you to instruct the browser to fetch and cache critical resources before they are needed. Use techniques like rel="preload" for essential assets such as fonts, CSS, and JavaScript files to initiate early fetching and improve FCP. However, use preloading judiciously to avoid unnecessary overhead.
Monitor and Optimise Third-Party Scripts
Third-party scripts, such as analytics trackers and social media widgets, can introduce additional delays in the loading process. Regularly audit and optimise third-party scripts to minimise their impact on FCP. Consider deferring non-essential scripts or loading them asynchronously to prioritise core content rendering.
Continuously Measure and Iterate
Optimising FCP is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring and iteration. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights, Lighthouse, and WebPageTest to analyse FCP performance and identify areas for improvement. Regularly test and refine your optimisation strategies to ensure consistent progress and an optimal FCP.
How to find your First Contentful Paint (FCP) score
There are several tools available to measure First Contentful Paint (FCP) scores, including:
- Google PageSpeed Insights: This tool provides insights into website performance, including FCP scores, and offers suggestions for improvement.
- Lighthouse: An open-source instrument by Google that reviews site pages for execution, availability, from there, the sky is the limit. It reports FCP scores along with other performance metrics.
- WebPageTest: A free online tool that allows you to test website performance from multiple locations and browsers, providing detailed performance metrics, including FCP.
- To find your FCP score using these tools, simply enter your website URL, initiate the test, and review the performance report provided, which includes the FCP score.
How to improve your Contentful Paint (FCP) score
Improving the First Contentful Paint (FCP) score involves optimising various aspects of your website to ensure faster loading times. Here are some strategies to consider:
Optimise Critical Rendering Path: Minimise render-blocking resources such as CSS and JavaScript and prioritise the loading of essential content.
Compress and Minify Assets: Reduce the size of images, CSS, and JavaScript files to improve loading speed.
Prioritise Above-the-Fold Content: Load critical above-the-fold content first to provide users with immediate visibility.
Implement Responsive Image Loading: Serve appropriately sized images based on device and viewport size to minimise unnecessary bandwidth usage.
Leverage Browser Caching: Set cache headers for static assets to reduce server response times for returning visitors.
Opt for a Content Delivery Network (CDN): Use a CDN to distribute content across servers worldwide and minimise latency.
Reduce Server Response Time (TTFB): Optimise server response times by upgrading hosting plans and optimising database queries.
Enable Browser Preloading: Instruct the browser to fetch and cache critical resources before they are needed.
Monitor and Optimise Third-Party Scripts: Audit and optimise third-party scripts to minimise their impact on FCP.
Continuously Measure and Iterate: Use performance monitoring tools to analyse FCP scores, identify areas for improvement, and regularly test and refine optimisation strategies.
Conclusion
Improving First Contentful Paint (FCP) is essential for delivering a fast and responsive web experience in 2024. By optimising critical rendering paths, compressing assets, prioritising above-the-fold content, and implementing responsive image loading, among other strategies, website owners can significantly enhance FCP and provide users with a seamless browsing experience. Embracing these strategies and staying vigilant with monitoring and iteration will help ensure that your website maintains optimal performance standards in the ever-evolving digital landscape.