Performance · Website glossary

First Contentful Paint

Quick answer · What is First Contentful Paint?

FCP marks when a browser first renders qualifying content from the page.

IN PRACTICE

First Contentful Paint: an example

A page header becomes visible before the large main image finishes loading.

KEEP IN MIND

FCP says something appeared, not that the main content is ready or that the page is interactive.

Put the idea to work

Frequently asked questions

What is a practical example of First Contentful Paint?

A page header becomes visible before the large main image finishes loading.

Does FCP mean the main content is ready and interactive?

FCP says something appeared, not that the main content is ready or that the page is interactive.

Which concepts should I read alongside First Contentful Paint?

Largest Contentful Paint: LCP reports when the largest eligible visible content element in the initial viewport is rendered.
Render blocking: The condition in which a resource or task delays the browser from rendering content.