Keyword research is a crucial part of any successful SEO or content marketing strategy. Choosing the right keywords and phrases can help you attract qualified traffic, increase lead generation, and boost conversions.
This comprehensive guide will teach you how to research and select the best keywords using the latest tools and techniques.
Keyword research allows you to identify high-potential search terms and phrases that real people are using to find information related to your business. With keyword research, you can:
By spending time on in-depth keyword research, you can gain a major edge over your competitors. But where do you start? This guide will walk you through the entire keyword research process from beginning to end.
Follow this simple 5-step keyword research framework:
Start by simply brainstorming a list of relevant keywords and phrases for your brand, products, and services. Think about the words and questions your target audience may use when searching for content similar to yours.
Some brainstorming tips:
Next, organize your initial keyword list into groups or categories based on common topics, themes, and subtopics. This helps you identify content gaps and develop a content creation strategy.
For example, a shoe brand may group keywords like this:
Think about how you would structure your website content around these potential themes and categories.
Now it’s time to dig deeper into the data. Use keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or Moz Keyword Explorer to gather key metrics for each keyword, including:
Look for keywords with decent search volume and low-medium competition. Avoid ultra-competitive keywords unless you have an established domain authority in that space.
You also need to research the searcher’s intent for each keyword. Ask:
Search intent can be:
Use Google Autocomplete and related searches to better understand intent.
Finally, compile your research into a master keyword list that identifies your top keyword targets. Include details like:
Choose 10-20 primary keywords or phrases that are the highest value. Be sure to include a mix of short-tail and long-tail keywords in your final selection.
Keep this target list handy for optimizing pages, creating content, and monitoring keyword ranking.
Now let's dive into the best keyword research tools and advanced tactics available.
These powerful keyword research tools can take your analysis to the next level:
Google's free Keyword Planner provides search volume data straight from the source. Discover keyword ideas and see average monthly searches for each term. Integrates directly with your Google Ads account if you have one.
Ubersuggest is a free tool from Neil Patel that generates related keywords and provides other key metrics like CPC and competition data. No login is required.
A premium tool with unique search volume and CPC data. See keyword difficulty scores and detailed competition analysis. 7-day free trial available.
Another robust paid tool for in-depth keyword research and SEO competition analysis. 14-day free trial available.
Moz's paid keyword research platform includes search volume, competition, and other metrics. 30-day free trial available.
Look at search volume patterns and regional interest for keywords over time. Helpful for spotting trends and seasonality.
Discover keyword variations and long-tail ideas based on common search questions that start with your main keyword.
Take your research up a level with these proven strategies:
Study what keywords your competitors are ranking for by using tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush. Identify opportunities where you can outrank them.
Target longer, more specific long-tail keywords like "monthly dog food subscription service" instead of just "dog food". They are less competitive and more converting.
Find additional keyword ideas in related and similar keyword lists from tools like Ubersuggest. Unearth angles you haven't thought of.
Use Google Trends to track seasonal fluctuations and identify trending keywords to capitalize on.
Separate keyword lists by searcher intent (informational, transactional, navigational) to create targeted content.
If you serve a specific geographic area, be sure to include localized keywords and area names.
Now that you've uncovered the perfect keywords for your business, put them to work:
With the right keywords powering your SEO and content efforts, you'll attract more of your ideal customers and see the results on your bottom line.
A: Google's Keyword Planner and Ubersuggest are two of the top free keyword research tools available. They provide keyword ideas and search volume data without needing a paid subscription.
A: Aim to target 1-3 main keywords per page. You can include related long-tail variations and synonyms, but focus on optimizing for your primary keyword.
A: Ideally, conduct keyword research at least once per quarter to discover new opportunities. You may research more frequently for fast-changing industries.
A: Search volume and competition level (keyword difficulty) are the two most important factors for keyword prioritization. CPC can also guide PPC decisions.
A: Use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Moz to analyze the top keywords your competitors rank for. Look for easy opportunities to outrank them.
A: Absolutely - keyword-optimized page titles and URLs help boost SEO rankings and click-through-rate. Just don't over-optimize.
A: Brainstorming, keyword research tools, Google Autocomplete, and analyzing competitors can help find hundreds of keyword ideas to consider.
A: Yes, get started with free tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, and Google Trends without needing paid subscriptions.
Comprehensive keyword research provides a proven framework to optimize your website content, outrank competitors, and attract qualified visitors. Use this guide to streamline your keyword research workflow and integrate the best SEO tools available. Stay on top of the latest search trends and opportunities to maximize your online visibility and success this year.
