Should I use JSON-LD FAQ schema for SEO when no visible FAQs exist on the page?

I am currently working on optimizing an article page for a specific topic (referred to as "Content XY"). Although the page does not have a visible FAQ section, I am thinking about incorporating FAQ items using JSON-LD schema markup for SEO purposes.

I have a few questions regarding this approach:

  1. Is it acceptable to include FAQ schema in JSON-LD format even if there are no visible FAQ questions on the page?
  2. Could implementing this practice be viewed as manipulative by search engines and potentially lead to penalties?
  3. Are there any recommended practices or guidelines for using JSON-LD FAQ schema in this scenario?

I would appreciate input from SEO professionals or individuals familiar with this subject matter. Thank you in advance for your assistance!

It is generally not recommended to use JSON-LD FAQ schema if there are no visible FAQs on the page. While there are no explicit penalties for doing so, it is seen as manipulative and can potentially negatively impact your search rankings.

Search engines aim to provide the most relevant and helpful results to users. Using schema markup to represent information that isn’t actually present on the page can be misleading to search engines and users.

Focus on providing a high-quality, informative, and user-friendly experience. If your content truly benefits from a FAQ section, consider adding one to your page and using schema markup to enhance its visibility. This approach aligns with best practices for SEO and user experience.