Ever left a review on Google and noticed your “points” going up? You might be wondering how they’re calculated. Or maybe you’re curious about becoming a top Local Guide. Either way, you’re in the right place!
TLDR: How Do Google Review Points Work?
Google awards points to users for contributing content like reviews, photos, videos, and more. Each type of contribution earns a specific number of points. The more helpful and detailed your content, the better. These points help you level up in Google’s Local Guides program — but they don’t turn into money, just bragging rights and the occasional perk.
What Are Google Review Points Anyway?
When you leave a review, upload a photo, or correct business info on Google Maps, you earn points. These points are part of Google’s Local Guides program.
Think of it like a game. The more you play (by contributing), the more you score (points!).
Here’s How the Points Break Down
Every type of contribution earns a certain number of points. Here’s a quick look:
- Review: 10 points
- Review with more than 200 characters: 10 bonus points (so 20 total!)
- Rating only (stars, no text): 1 point
- Photo: 5 points per photo
- Video: 7 points per video
- Answer questions about a place: 1 point per answer
- Respond to Q&A: 3 points per response
- Add a new place to the map: 15 points
- Edit a place’s info: 5 points
- Add a road or fix a road: 15 points
- Fact-check existing information: 1 point
Note: These points reflect the most recent structure as of 2024. Google may tweak the system from time to time.
Why Should You Care?
First, it’s just fun! Helping others find the best spots or avoid bad ones feels rewarding. Second, points can lead to perks!
Your points contribute to your Local Guide Level. There are 10 levels in total. The higher your level, the cooler features or perks you might unlock, like:
- Early access to Google features
- Invites to special events
- Free Google Drive storage (though not currently offered)
- Recognition badges on your profile
How to Earn Points Fast (The Fun Way)
Want to level up quickly? Try these tips:
- Leave detailed reviews. Go beyond just “Great food!” Try “The pizza had a perfect crust with just the right amount of crunch. Staff was friendly and seating was cozy.”
- Upload photos and videos. Pictures are worth 1,000 words—and 5 Google points!
- Be consistent. Review every place you visit, no matter how small or big.
- Add new places. Spot a new coffee shop that’s not on the map? Add it!
- Edit incorrect listings. See the wrong phone number or hours? Fix it and get rewarded.
What Doesn’t Earn Points?
Some things don’t get you points:
- Private reviews (those not approved yet by Google)
- Duplicate content or spammy uploads
- Just browsing Google Maps won’t count — you need to contribute
Also, if Google thinks your content breaks its guidelines, it might remove your contribution entirely (and take away the points).
Understanding Local Guide Levels
Here’s a quick tour of the levels:
- Level 1: 0–14 points
- Level 2: 15–74 points
- Level 3: 75–249 points
- Level 4: 250–499 points (you earn your first badge!)
- Level 5: 500–1,499 points
- Level 6: 1,500–4,999 points
- Level 7: 5,000–14,999 points
- Level 8: 15,000–49,999 points
- Level 9: 50,000–99,999 points
- Level 10: 100,000+ points
Once you reach Level 4, your badge appears next to your name in your Google reviews. That’s when it starts to feel official!
What Makes a Contribution “Helpful”?
Google uses secret sauce (aka algorithms) to decide if your review is helpful to others. But generally, helpful content looks like:
- Clear and honest descriptions
- Details on timing, service, atmosphere, etc.
- Real photos and videos
- Up-to-date and accurate business info
The more helpful you are to others, the more people will like your content and possibly follow your profile.
Can You Lose Points?
Yes, you can. If Google removes any of your contributions for violating policies or being inaccurate, you’ll lose the points earned from them.
This is why you should always make sure your reviews are original, honest, and useful.
A Few Fun Facts
- Some Local Guides have over 1 million points!
- Google occasionally sends out small gifts to top contributors — think socks, pins, or stickers.
- There’s a whole Reddit community just for Local Guides discussing tips and stories.
Wrapping It Up
Google review points are more than just numbers. They’re a way to reward people for helping others.
You don’t need to be a pro photographer or food critic to earn points. Just be honest, helpful, and consistent.
So go ahead—share your thoughts next time you visit a café or take a cool picture of a new hiking trail. You’ll earn a few points, and maybe even improve someone’s day.
And hey, those points might just take you to Level 10 glory!
