Most structured data you add won't show up in search results. Here's what actually works right now based on what I see generating rich results consistently.
1. FAQ schema on informational pages
If you rank positions 1-10 for question-based queries, FAQ schema can get you the expandable FAQ rich result. I've seen this work for SaaS companies, educational content, and service pages. Doesn't work for commercial queries where Google shows product results instead.
2. Product schema with reviews and availability
Requires actual aggregate rating data and real-time stock status. Google shows this in product carousels and regular results. One store added proper product schema with review markup and saw marked "in stock" badges appear within three weeks. CTR increased 18% on those URLs.
3. HowTo schema for tutorial content
Works for step-by-step guides that rank in top five positions. Generates the visual step cards in search results. Tested this on ten tutorial articles. Seven got the rich result within a month. The ones that didn't were ranking position 8 or lower.
4. Video schema for embedded content
If you embed video on pages, add VideoObject schema with upload date, duration, and thumbnail. Gets you into video carousels and adds video thumbnails in regular results. Saw this generate 200+ clicks per month from video tab searches.
5. Breadcrumb schema
Replaces the URL with breadcrumb navigation in search results. Works reliably and makes your result easier to parse. Takes 15 minutes to implement.
Skip organization schema, website schema, and most other types unless you have specific business reasons. Focus your time on the five above where Google consistently displays enhanced results. Test in Search Console's Rich Results tool before publishing.