How To Find Great Keywords: A Comprehensive Guide

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If you want to build a successful internet business, your website is the foundation. Find great keywords to write about; they are the seeds of your content.

So, you want to build a successful internet business?

Then you need a website.

Your website is the foundation of your internet business, while the keywords you choose to write about make up the framework of your content.

When talking with my wife (who’s a nurse) about Google, it became clear she didn’t know what a keyword is…

So, to be clear – in the world of internet search engines, “keyword” refers to a word or phrase that people use to search for information. She’s got that now… I do love you darling!

Anyway, what keywords are is simple enough to understand on the surface, of course, but not so easy to make the most of.

A crucial aspect of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is the inclusion of search algorithms designed to help the search engine match a searcher’s request to the content of a website or webpage.

Such algorithms are designed to deliver the best possible search engine results to the searcher.

That understanding, though, needs to be able to reflect the fact that, as searchers, any two humans are likely to use different words than each other, although with the intention of finding the same information.

Or, they use the same words as each other while expecting different results.

Search engine businesses invest a great deal in the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for figuring out a questioner’s intention when they enter a query (or keyword).

It stands to reason, then, that when writing content to post on a website, the creator also needs to figure out the intent of a searcher’s keywords and write content that reflects that intention.

The process of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) applies to both search engines and the content of a website.

Therefore, as a creator, choosing the right keywords for your website or content is one crucial aspect of SEO success.

You need to select keywords that are relevant to your business or topic and have a reasonable search volume, i.e., they need to be providing information that people are actually looking for.

What is keyword research?

There was a time not very long ago when search engines’ treatment of keywords was not as sophisticated as it is today.

There was a time when the more mentions of a particular keyword within an article, the more chance there was of ranking high up in Search Engine Results Pages (SERPS).

The practice usually made articles stilted and difficult to read.

Fortunately, those days, although not long ago, are now in the past as search engine algorithms have become more sophisticated through the deeper use of AI.

Nowadays, when users type a search query, search engines use complex algorithms to match the query with relevant content on the web.

So keyword research is the process of identifying the most effective keywords for inclusion in your website’s content.

By becoming adept at conducting keyword research, you can gain insights into your target audience’s search habits and create content that aligns with their interests and needs.

Importance of keyword research for SEO and content creation

As already implied, keyword research helps you optimise your content for search engines, increasing the likelihood that it will rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).

It is a critical aspect of internet marketing, affiliate marketing, blogging, content creation, content marketing, etc.

Poorly chosen keywords or completely ignored keyword research will most likely result in inefficient SEO and very little organic traffic, which results in reduced revenue.

It’s important, however, to keep in mind that although good keyword research is a vital skill for website content creators, the main purpose is to provide a relevant focus when writing in order to deliver what a reader is looking for.

In other words, creators should primarily write to satisfy the human searcher’s intent rather than for search engines.

So, when creating content, pay attention to what your target audience will likely type into their search engines.

Knowing the words and phrases that a target audience is likely to search for can make the difference between the success and failure of a business online.

It’s essential to research the demand for a particular keyword to know which words and phrases your target audience is searching for most.

Also, with practice, keyword research can help content creators understand their audience better and thereby aid in creating content that is more engaging and relevant to their audiences’ needs.

In addition, keywords help identify ideas for niche products and can help to both identify and firm up new business ideas.

Different types of keywords (short-tail, long-tail, and LSI)

Keywords can be divided into two main categories: short-tail keywords and long-tail keywords.

Short-tail keywords usually consist of one or two words that reflect broad terms, and tend to have a high search volume, such as “shoes” or “travel.”

Because they attract high volumes of search traffic, they also attract a lot of competition.

Long-tail keywords, on the other hand, are more specific phrases, with more words in them, that have a lower search volume but are more targeted, such as “women’s running shoes” or “best hotels in Bali.”

Then there’s LSI, which stands for Latent Semantic Indexing.

A technique used in keyword research is to identify related or semantically similar words or phrases that can be used in content to improve its relevance (and search engine ranking) for a particular topic or theme.

In other words, LSI helps to identify words or phrases that are conceptually related to a target keyword but may not be direct synonyms.

For example, if the target keyword is “dog food,” LSI keywords might include “pet nutrition,” “healthy dog diet,” or “best dog food brands.”

By incorporating LSI keywords into content, website owners can help search engines better understand the topic and context of their content, which can improve its relevance and ranking in search results.

This can ultimately lead to increased traffic and visibility for the website.

Finding profitable niches with keyword research

Niche selection without keyword research can be risky since keywords can be used to provide data-driven and scientific data towards niche selection.

A potential niche, is a specific topic or audience that (ideally) may not currently be addressed by many websites or content creators, making it an opportunity to create unique and valuable content.

So, keyword research is not only about finding the right keywords for your content but can also be used to identify niches and even new business opportunities.

In other words, by identifying low-competition keywords related to a particular topic, they can indicate a potential niche, product or business opportunity.

For example, if you are interested in creating content about vegan recipes, you might use a keyword research tool to find related keywords that have low competition.

You may then discover that “vegan desserts” has a low search volume and competition compared to other keywords related to veganism, thereby identifying a niche to get started with.

It’s worth pointing out that Identifying a niche is beneficial for both content creators and search engines.

For content creators, targeting a niche can attract a specific audience interested in the topic and increase the likelihood of ranking highly on search engine results pages (SERPs).

This in turn means that a niche topic can provide more relevant search results from a search engine to their users.

Identifying products people want to buy with keyword research

Keyword research can be an excellent tool for identifying products that people want to buy.

The first step could be to brainstorm a list of potential products or product categories.

Once you have your list, you can use a keyword research tool to analyse the search volume and competition for those keywords.

Finding keywords that have a high search volume and low competition indicates that people are actively searching for those products and that there aren’t many websites or businesses competing for them.

These types of keywords, whether directly product-related or not, are often referred to as “low-hanging fruit” because they are relatively easy to rank for and can drive targeted traffic to your website.

It’s also important to consider the intent behind the search queries.

For example, if someone is searching for “best running shoes for beginners,” it’s likely that they’re in the market to purchase running shoes.

On the other hand, if someone is searching for “how to tie your shoelaces”, they’re most likely looking for informational content rather than products to purchase.

So, by using keyword research to identify products that people want to buy, you can create content or build an e-commerce store around those products.

This can increase your chances of success by targeting an audience that is actively searching for what you have to offer.

Creating great website content that people want to read

Using keywords wisely in your content can attract the right kind of visitors to your blog and achieve returning traffic.

It’s essential to use keywords naturally and not overuse them in your content.

By doing so, you can create content that resonates with your target audience, drives traffic to your website, and ultimately helps to achieve your goals.

There are normally five steps for doing keyword research for a blog post or a series of blog posts:

1. Create a list of possible keywords in your niche to jumpstart your research.
2. Explore different versions of each keyword.
3. Analyse the competition.
4. Consider the search volume and commercial intent.
5. Make a final list of keywords to use.

Some of the five steps mentioned above can be carried out manually, however, there is a range of free and paid tools available that help you discover and prioritise keywords for content creation and SEO.

In addition to the tools mentioned below, Google Search Console can be a starting point for valuable insights into keywords already identified in your existing content.

Keyword Research Methods

Ideas are all around us.

We are often spoiled for choice and the biggest problem we have is refining a list of keywords in order to make good decisions.

When conducting keyword research, there are several manual methods you can use to identify potential keywords and phrases that your target audience might use to search for products or services like yours.

Here are some of the most effective manual methods, in no particular order:

• Brainstorming:
  Brainstorming is a process often forgotten, of generating a list of whatever comes to mind. When brainstorming for keyword ideas, try to put yourself in your prospect’s shoes and think about the language they might use to describe their needs or problems. You’ll probably start with short-tail keywords, then look for related long-tail keywords, because they often have a lower search volume but can be easier to rank for and attract more targeted traffic to your website. Brainstorming with a team can also be a great way to generate a wide range of ideas and perspectives.
  
• Join industry forums and social media groups:
  By hanging out in relevant forums and social media groups, you can discover the language and keywords that people interested in a particular subject use. Analyse the language that your target audience uses in these channels to gain insights into their needs, interests, and pain points. Look for relevant hashtags and monitor conversations around your industry to identify keywords and phrases that your audience is using.
  
• Surveying customers:
  By surveying your customers directly, you can learn about their interests, pain points, and the language they use to describe their needs. Use online survey tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms to create and distribute your survey. Ask questions that will help you understand your customers’ needs and preferences, such as the keywords or phrases they used to search for your product or service.
  
• Analysing competitor websites:
  Reading your competitors’ websites can help you gain insights into their SEO strategy and identify opportunities to improve your own. So where do you find your competitors websites? Page one of Google is the best place to find them! Look for keywords, and related semantic keywords on their sites, that are relevant to your business and target audience.
  
• Avoid Over-competitive Keywords:
  When looking at page one on Google, check out the quality of the sites you’re up against. If page one of Google is populated by forums, Quora and social media sites, which tend to contain relatively thin content on any particular subject, then they’re worth taking on. If, on the other hand, it’s full of well-informed, well-constructed, comprehensive articles, they will be far harder to pass in the ranking stakes.

Also, realise that keyword research is an ongoing process.

You’ll need to monitor and may need to adjust your keyword strategy over time as search trends, consumer behaviours and competition change.

Keyword Research Tools

The manual methods introduced can all be effective.

However, finding good keywords can require an enormous investment of your time.

For this reason, many keyword research tools have been developed.

Here follows a short list of keyword research tools.

There are many other Keyword Research Tools available in the marketplace so bear in mind that this list is far from comprehensive:

• Google Keyword Planner
• SEMrush
• Ahrefs
• Ubersuggest
• Moz Keyword Explorer
• Jaaxy

Google Keyword Planner

What is Google Keyword Planner?

Google Keyword Planner, provided by Google Ads, helps you discover new keywords and get insights into how they might perform.

It’s certainly a must-have tool for anyone involved in running paid search campaigns on Google Ads and provides valuable insights even if you’re not promoting Ads on Google.

The primary objective of this tool is to help you identify the best keywords to target in your marketing efforts, based on search volume, competition, and potential conversions.

Introduction To Using Google Keyword Planner for Keyword Research

1. Access the Google Keyword Planner
   First, you’ll need to sign in to your Google Ads account. If you don’t have one yet, no worries! You can create one for free at ads.google.com. Once you’re signed in, click on the wrench icon in the top right corner, and then select “Keyword Planner” from the drop-down menu.
   
2. Discover New Keywords
   There are two primary ways to discover new keywords in Google Keyword Planner: “Discover new keywords” and “Get search volume and forecasts.” For our purposes, we’ll focus on the “Discover new keywords” option.
   
   So, click on “Discover new keywords” and enter a word or phrase related to your niche. You can also input your website URL or choose a category from the dropdown menu. After you’ve added your desired input, click “Get Results.”
   
3. Analyse Keyword Ideas
   Now comes the fun part: digging into the data! The results will present you with a wealth of information, including:
   – Keyword ideas
   – Average monthly searches
   – Competition level (Low, Medium or High)
   – Top-of-page bid (Low and High range)
   Analyse this data to identify keywords that have a healthy search volume, relatively low competition, and reasonable bid ranges. These are the keywords that could potentially drive traffic and conversions for your business.
   
4. Refine Your Keyword List
   Once you have a list of potential keywords, you can refine your selection. Use the filters available in Google Keyword Planner to narrow down your list based on criteria such as search volume, competition, and more. You can also add negative keywords to exclude specific terms from your results.
   
5. Export and Organize Your Keywords
   Finally, when you’re satisfied with your list of keywords, click the “Download Keyword Ideas” button to export your findings to a spreadsheet. You can then organise and categorise your keywords for easy reference in your content marketing, SEO, or Google Ads campaigns.

You now know a little about how to harness the power of Google Keyword Planner for your keyword research needs.

Remember, the key to success is not only finding high-volume, low-competition keywords but also identifying those that are relevant and valuable to your target audience.

Semrush

What is Semrush?

Semrush is an all-in-one digital marketing platform that offers a comprehensive suite of tools to help you with SEO, PPC, content marketing, and social media management.

One of its most popular features is its keyword research toolkit, which can provide valuable insights into keyword performance, search volume, competition, and more.

Semrush is an excellent resource for marketers, content creators, and SEO professionals looking to discover new opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.

Introduction To Using Semrush for Keyword Research

1. Access Semrush
   First, navigate to semrush.com and sign in to your account. If you don’t have an account yet, you can create one and start with a free trial or choose from their range of paid plans, based on your needs.
   
2. Navigate to Keyword Research Tools
   Once you’re logged in, you’ll find a dashboard with various tools and features. To focus on keyword research, click on “Keyword Overview” under the “Keyword Analytics” section.
   
3. Enter Your Seed Keyword
   Type in a seed keyword related to your niche or industry, and click “Search.” Semrush will then generate a comprehensive report on your keyword, including search volume, keyword difficulty, cost-per-click (CPC), and more.
   
4. Explore Keyword Variations
   In the report, you’ll find a section called “Keyword Variations.” This section lists similar keywords and phrases that users are searching for, providing you with alternative keyword ideas. Analyse these variations and look for keywords with a good balance of search volume, keyword difficulty, and CPC.
   
5. Dive into Keyword Questions and Related Keywords
   Another valuable feature of Semrush’s keyword research tool is the “Questions” and “Related Keywords” sections. These sections provide you with long-tail keywords in the form of questions and closely related terms. These keywords can be valuable for creating engaging content that addresses your audience’s needs and queries.
   
6. Analyse Competitor Data
   Semrush also allows you to see which keywords your competitors are ranking for. Analysing this data can help you identify opportunities for keywords that your competitors may have overlooked.
   
7. Export and Organise Your Keywords
   When you’re satisfied with your keyword research, you can export your findings by simply clicking the “Export” button. Save your data in spreadsheet format, and organise your keywords according to their relevance, search volume, and competition.

By using this powerful platform, you can uncover new keyword opportunities, gain valuable insights into search trends, and ultimately, drive more traffic and conversions for your business.

Ahrefs

What is Ahrefs?

Ahrefs is another all-inclusive SEO platform that offers a wide range of tools designed to help you improve your website’s search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic.

It boasts a comprehensive keyword research toolkit, providing valuable insights into search volume, keyword difficulty, and more.

Ahrefs is an excellent choice for marketers, content creators, and SEO professionals seeking to uncover new keyword opportunities and outperform their competitors.

Introduction To Using Ahrefs for Keyword Research

1. Access Ahrefs
   First, head over to ahrefs.com and sign in to your account. If you don’t have one yet, you can create one and choose from their range of paid plans, based on your needs.
   
2. Navigate to the Keywords Explorer
   Once you’re logged in, you’ll find a dashboard with various tools and features. For keyword research, click on “Keywords Explorer” in the top navigation menu.
   
3. Enter Your Seed Keyword
   Type in a seed keyword related to your niche or industry and click “Search.” Ahrefs will then generate a comprehensive report on your keyword, including search volume, keyword difficulty, click-through rate (CTR), and more.
   
4. Discover Keyword Ideas
   In the report, you’ll find several sections that provide you with alternative keyword ideas. These sections include:
   Phrase match
   Having the same terms
   Also rank for
   Search suggestions
   Examine these keyword suggestions and look for keywords with a good balance of search volume, keyword difficulty, and CTR.
   
5. Uncover Long-Tail Keywords and Questions
   Ahrefs also offers a valuable feature called “Questions,” which presents you with long-tail keywords in the form of questions that users are searching for. Additionally, you can explore the “Search suggestions” section to discover more long-tail keywords. These keywords can help you create engaging content that addresses your audience’s concerns and inquiries.
   
6. Analyse Competitor Data
   With Ahrefs, you can also see which keywords your competitors are ranking for. Analysing this data will enable you to identify keywords that your competitors may have missed or outrank them on high-value keywords.
   
7. Export and Organize Your Keywords
   When you’re satisfied with your keyword research, you can export your findings by clicking the “Export” button. Save your data in a spreadsheet format and organise your keywords according to their relevance, search volume, and competition.

So, with Ahrefs you’ll discover new keyword opportunities and gain valuable insights into search trends.

Ubersuggest

What is Ubersuggest?

Ubersuggest is a free SEO tool with a premium version.

It was acquired and further developed by digital marketing expert Neil Patel.

It has a simple, intuitive interface that allows you to conduct keyword research, analyses competitor data, and track your website’s SEO performance.

With Ubersuggest, you can uncover new keyword opportunities, and gain insights into search volume, competition, and more.

It’s an excellent choice for marketers, content creators, and SEO beginners looking to improve their website’s search engine visibility.

Introduction To Using Ubersuggest for Keyword Research

1. Access Ubersuggest
   First, navigate to ubersuggest.com and sign in to your account. If you don’t have one yet, you can create one for free or opt for one of their paid plans for additional features.
   
2. Enter Your Seed Keyword
   Type in a seed keyword related to your niche or industry and click “Search.” Ubersuggest will then generate a report on your keyword, including search volume, SEO difficulty, paid difficulty, and cost-per-click (CPC).
   
3. Discover Keyword Ideas
   In the report, you’ll find a section called “Keyword Ideas” that provides you with alternative keywords and phrases that users are searching for. Analyse these suggestions and look for keywords with a good balance of search volume, SEO difficulty, and CPC.
   
4. Explore Related Keywords and Questions
   Ubersuggest also offers valuable features such as “Related Keywords” and “Questions,” which provide you with closely related terms and long-tail keywords in the form of questions that users are searching for. These keywords can help you create engaging content that addresses your audience’s needs and inquiries.
   
5. Analyse Competitor Data
   With Ubersuggest, you can also see which keywords your competitors are ranking for. By analysing this data, you can identify opportunities to target keywords that your competitors may have overlooked, or outrank them on high-value keywords.
   
6. Export and Organise Your Keywords
   When you’re satisfied with your keyword research, you can export your findings by clicking the “Export to CSV” button. Save your data in a spreadsheet format and organize your keywords according to their relevance, search volume, and competition.

You now have the knowledge and skills to easily get started with Ubersuggest for keyword research.

Moz Keyword Explorer

What is Moz Keyword Explorer?

Moz Keyword Explorer is a powerful keyword research tool that’s part of the feature-rich Moz Pro suite, which offers a range of SEO tools to help you improve your website’s search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic.

With Moz Keyword Explorer, you can discover new keyword opportunities, and gain insights into search volume, competition, and more.

It’s an excellent choice for marketers, content creators, and SEO professionals looking to refine their keyword research process and optimize their marketing efforts.

Introduction To Using Moz Keyword Explorer for Keyword Research

1. Access Moz Keyword Explorer
   First, navigate to moz.com and sign in to your Moz Pro account. If you don’t have one yet, you can create one and start with a free trial or choose from their range of paid plans, based on your needs.
   
2. Navigate to the Keyword Explorer Tool
   Once you’re logged in, you’ll find a dashboard with various tools and features. For keyword research, click on “Keyword Explorer” in the top navigation menu.
   
3. Enter Your Seed Keyword
   Type in a seed keyword related to your niche or industry and click “Search.” Moz Keyword Explorer will then generate a comprehensive report on your keyword, including search volume, keyword difficulty, organic CTR, and priority.
   
4. Discover Keyword Suggestions
   In the report, you’ll find a section called “Keyword Suggestions” that provides you with alternative keywords and phrases that users are searching for. Analyse these suggestions and look for keywords with a good balance of search volume, keyword difficulty, and organic CTR.
   
5. Explore Related Keywords and Questions
   Moz Keyword Explorer also offers valuable features such as “Related Keywords” and “Questions,” which provide you with closely related terms and long-tail keywords in the form of questions that users are searching for. These keywords can help you create engaging content.
   
6. Analyse Competitor Data
   With Moz Keyword Explorer, you can also see which keywords your competitors are ranking for. By analysing this data, you can identify keywords that your competitors may have missed or outrank them on high-value keywords.
   
7. Export and Organize Your Keywords
   When you’re satisfied with your keyword research, you can export your findings by clicking the “Export CSV” button. Save your data in a spreadsheet format and organize your keywords according to their relevance, search volume, and competition.

By leveraging Moz Keyword Explorer you’ll discover new keyword opportunities and gain valuable insights into search trends.

Jaaxy

What is Jaaxy?

Now to Jaaxy, a powerful and easy-to-use keyword research tool that’s designed to help you uncover new keyword opportunities, and gain insights into search volume, competition, and more.

It’s an excellent choice for marketers, content creators, and SEO enthusiasts who are looking to improve their website’s search engine visibility and optimize their marketing efforts.

With its straightforward interface and wealth of features, Jaaxy can help you streamline your keyword research process.

Introduction To Using Jaaxy for Keyword Research

1. Access Jaaxy
   First, head over to jaaxy.com and sign in to your account. If you don’t have one yet, you can create one and start with a free trial or choose from their range of paid plans, based on your needs.
   
2. Enter Your Seed Keyword
   Type in a seed keyword related to your niche or industry and click “Search.” Jaaxy will then generate a report on your keyword, including search volume, keyword difficulty (QSR), and a proprietary “Keyword Quality Indicator” (KQI) score.
   
3. Discover Keyword Ideas
   In the report, you’ll find a list of related keywords and phrases that users are searching for. Analyse these suggestions and look for keywords with a good balance of search volume, QSR, and KQI.
   
4. Explore the Alphabet Soup Technique
   Jaaxy also offers a unique feature called “Alphabet Soup,” which provides you with long-tail keyword ideas by appending each letter of the alphabet to your seed keyword. This technique can help you discover untapped keyword opportunities that your competitors may have overlooked.
   
5. Analyse Competitor Data
   With Jaaxy, you can also see which keywords your competitors are ranking for. By analysing this data, you can identify opportunities to target keywords that your competitors may have missed or outrank them on high-value keywords.
   
6. Save and Organize Your Keywords
   Jaaxy allows you to save your keyword findings to custom lists, making it easy to organize and manage your keyword research. Create separate lists for different topics or projects and keep track of your most valuable keywords.
   
7. Export Your Keywords
   When you’re satisfied with your keyword research, you can export your findings by clicking the “Export” button. Save your data in a spreadsheet format and organize your keywords according to their relevance, search volume, and competition.

And that’s it! Jaaxy is easy to use for your keyword research needs.

It’s also provided standalone or as part of the benefits of Wealthy Affiliate membership.

By leveraging any of these tools you’ll uncover new keyword opportunities, gain valuable insights into search trends, and ultimately, drive more traffic and conversions for your business.

The Pros and Cons of Each Tool

Here’s a table that compares the different features of the keyword research tools mentioned: Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, Moz Keyword Explorer, and Jaaxy.

This table will help you better understand the unique features and offerings of each tool, making it easier for you to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Feature / Tool	Google Keyword Planner	SEMrush	Ahrefs	Ubersuggest	Moz Keyword Explorer	Jaaxy
Search Volume	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyword Difficulty	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes (QSR)
CPC Data	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Keyword Suggestions	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Related Keywords	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Long-Tail Keywords	Limited	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes (+Alphabet Soup)
Questions	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Competitor Analysis	Limited	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyword Lists	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Export Options	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Free Access	Yes (with limitations)	Limited free trial	Limited free trial	Limited free version	Limited free trial	Limited free trial

Please note that the availability and extent of each feature may vary depending on the specific plan or subscription level.

Be sure to explore each tool’s website for more detailed information on their offerings and pricing.

Here follows a summary of the pros and cons of each of the keyword research tools mentioned.

This should give you a better idea of each tool’s strengths and weaknesses to help you make a more informed decision.

Google Keyword Planner

Pros:

• Free to use with a Google Ads account
• Directly integrated with the Google Ads platform
• Provides accurate search volume and CPC data
• Good for basic keyword research and PPC campaigns

Cons:

• Limited features compared to other tools
• Lacks keyword difficulty metrics
• Less comprehensive for long-tail keywords and questions
• Not specifically designed for SEO purposes

SEMrush

Pros:

• Comprehensive keyword research tool
• Offers keyword difficulty, CPC data, and search volume
• Provides keyword suggestions, related keywords, and questions
• Includes competitor analysis and domain overview
• Part of an all-in-one SEO and marketing suite

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming for beginners
• Limited free trial, with paid plans starting at a higher price point

Ahrefs

Pros:

• Comprehensive keyword research tool
• Offers keyword difficulty, CPC data, and search volume
• Provides keyword suggestions, related keywords, and questions
• Includes competitor analysis and backlink data
• Part of an all-in-one SEO and marketing suite

Cons:

• No free plan, only a limited free trial
• Paid plans can be more expensive than some competitors

Ubersuggest

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Offers keyword difficulty, CPC data, and search volume
• Provides keyword suggestions, related keywords, and questions
• Includes competitor analysis
• Limited free version available
• Cost-effective

Cons:

• Some features and data limits are restricted to paid plans
• Less comprehensive than more advanced tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs

Moz Keyword Explorer

Pros:

• Comprehensive keyword research tool
• Offers keyword difficulty, CPC data, and search volume
• Provides keyword suggestions, related keywords, and questions
• Includes competitor analysis
• Part of the Moz Pro suite, an all-in-one SEO and marketing solution

Cons:

• No free plan, only a limited free trial
• Paid plans can be more expensive than some competitors

Jaaxy

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Offers unique features like Alphabet Soup for long-tail keywords
• Provides keyword difficulty (QSR), search volume, and Keyword Quality Indicator (KQI) score
• Includes competitor analysis and keyword lists
• Limited free trial available
• Available, in effect free, as part of Wealthy Affiliate Membership

Cons:

• Lacks CPC data
• Does not provide questions
• Limited features compared to more advanced tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs

Keep in mind that the best keyword research tool for you depends on your needs, budget, and experience level.

It’s essential to consider these factors and explore each tool’s website for more detailed information on its offerings and pricing before making a decision.

Useful Browser Extensions for Keyword Research

Now we’ll move on to exploring some handy browser extensions that can help streamline your keyword research process and provide valuable insights on the go.

These extensions can save you time, and effort, and make it easier to discover new keyword opportunities as you browse the web.

Now we’ll take a look at some of the most useful browser extensions for keyword research!

1. Keywords Everywhere

Keywords Everywhere is a popular browser extension available for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.

This extension provides you with essential keyword data, such as search volume, CPC, and competition, directly in your search engine results pages (SERPs).

Additionally, it offers related keywords and “People Also Search For” suggestions to help you discover more keyword ideas.

Chrome Extension | Firefox Extension

2. MozBar

MozBar, created by Moz, is a powerful SEO toolbar available for Google Chrome.

With MozBar, you can access important keyword metrics such as Domain Authority (DA), Page Authority (PA), and the number of backlinks for any webpage you visit.

This extension also provides on-page analysis, which can help you identify the keywords your competitors are targeting and uncover new opportunities.

Chrome Extension

3. SEOquake

SEOquake is a versatile SEO toolbar available for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera.

This extension offers a wealth of information, including keyword data, on-page SEO analysis, and backlink information.

SEOquake also integrates with SEMrush, allowing you to access additional keyword data and insights if you have a SEMrush account.

Chrome Extension | Firefox Extension | Opera Extension

4. Keyword Surfer

Keyword Surfer is a browser extension exclusively for Google Chrome that provides valuable keyword data and insights directly within the SERPs.

This extension displays search volume, keyword suggestions, and domain-level data like estimated organic traffic and the number of referring domains.

Keyword Surfer is a great free alternative to Keywords Everywhere.

Chrome Extension

5. SERPstat Website SEO Checker

Serpstat Website SEO Checker is a browser extension available for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.

This extension offers on-page SEO analysis, domain and page-level metrics, and keyword data.

It also provides insights on website visibility, traffic, and top-performing content, making it a valuable tool for competitive analysis and keyword research.

Chrome Extension | Firefox Extension

6. SEO Minion

SEO Minion is a versatile browser extension available for both Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.

While it’s not exclusively focused on keyword research, it offers a range of useful SEO features that can indirectly support your keyword research efforts.

Some of the key features of SEO Minion include on-page SEO analysis, broken link checking, SERP preview, and a Google search location simulator.

By using SEO Minion to analyse on-page elements and identify the keywords your competitors are targeting, you can uncover new keyword opportunities and refine your own strategy.

Incorporating SEO Minion into your toolkit will help you enhance your keyword research process by providing valuable insights into on-page SEO and competitor analysis.

Chrome Extension | Firefox Extension

By leveraging these various browser extensions into your keyword research process, you’ll be able to access valuable keyword data and insights effortlessly as you browse the web.

These extensions can help you stay informed, be agile and responsive to new keyword opportunities, ultimately contributing to more effective keywords

Combining Tools With Manual Methods for Comprehensive Keyword Research

By combining the power of keyword research tools with manual research methods, you’ll gain an even deeper understanding of your audience and the keywords that drive their search behaviour.

This comprehensive approach will help you create more effective content and marketing campaigns, ultimately driving more traffic and conversions for your business.

So in this section, we’ll explore how to use a combination of keyword research tools and manual methods to create a truly comprehensive keyword research strategy.

By combining the power of technology with the precision of human judgment, you can uncover valuable keyword opportunities and make informed decisions about your content and marketing campaigns.

Step 1: Start with a Seed Keyword

Begin by brainstorming a seed keyword that’s relevant to your niche or industry. This will serve as the starting point for your keyword research, guiding you as you explore different tools and techniques.

Step 2: Consider Leveraging Multiple Keyword Research Tools

Using at least one keyword research tool is essential for achieving a better understanding of your keyword landscape.

Each tool has its unique features and strengths, so leveraging multiple tools can provide you with diverse keyword ideas, search volume data, competition insights, and more.

While some of these tools offer free access or limited trials, you may need to invest in paid plans to unlock their full potential.

Step 3: Organise and Analyse Your Findings

As you gather keyword ideas and data from different tools, it’s essential to organize your findings in a spreadsheet or a dedicated keyword research tool.

This will help you analyse the information more effectively and identify patterns, trends, and gaps in your keyword strategy.

Pay attention to metrics like search volume, keyword difficulty, and CPC data, as they can help in selecting the most valuable keywords for your target audience.

Step 4: Conduct Manual Research

While keyword research tools can provide a wealth of data, manual research is crucial for gaining a more nuanced understanding of your audience’s needs, preferences, and behaviours.

Here are some manual research methods to consider:

• Google Search:
  Type your seed keyword into Google and analyse the search results, featured snippets, and “People Also Ask” sections. This can help you identify popular topics, related keywords, and questions your audience is asking.
• Google Trends:
  Use Google Trends to analyse the search interest for your keywords over time and identify seasonal trends or emerging topics.
• Forums and Q&A Websites:
  Visit online forums, communities, and Q&A websites like Reddit and Quora to understand the questions, concerns, and discussions surrounding your target keywords.
• Competitor Analysis:
  Review and analyse your competitors’ websites and content to identify the keywords they are targeting, as well as any gaps or opportunities in their keyword strategy.

Step 5: Refine Your Keyword List

After conducting manual research, add any new keyword ideas and insights to your spreadsheet or keyword research tool.

Then, review and refine your keyword list by considering factors like search volume, keyword difficulty, and relevancy to your target audience.

Prioritize keywords that strike a balance between high search volume, low competition, and strong user intent.

Step 6: Incorporate Keywords into Your Content Strategy

Finally, use your comprehensive keyword research to refine your content strategy.

Create high-quality, engaging content that addresses the needs and interests of your audience, and optimise it for your target keywords.

Continuously monitor your content’s performance and adjust your keyword strategy as needed.

Tips for Organising and Analysing Keyword Data

Before we finish, here are a few tips for organising and analysing keyword data effectively.

Proper organisation and analysis of your keyword research findings are crucial for making informed decisions about your content and marketing strategies.

So, let’s explore a few ideas that will help you stay on top of your keyword game!

Tip 1: Use a Spreadsheet or Dedicated Tool

To keep your keyword data organized, use a spreadsheet like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice Spreadsheet or a dedicated keyword research tool that allows you to create and manage lists.

Whichever method you choose, ensure that it’s easily accessible, shareable, and editable to facilitate collaboration with your team.

Tip 2: Standardise Your Data Columns

Create a standardised set of columns in your spreadsheet or tool to store essential keyword data, such as:

• Keyword
• Search Volume
• Keyword Difficulty
• CPC (Cost per Click)
• Relevance to your niche or industry
• User Intent (Informational, Transactional, Navigational, etc.)
• Categories or themes
• Notes or Observations

By standardizing your data columns, you’ll be able to analyse and compare keywords more effectively.

Tip 3: Categorise and Group Keywords

Group your keywords into categories or themes based on their topic, relevancy, or user intent.

This will help you identify patterns and trends within your keyword data, making it easier to prioritize and create targeted content for your audience.

Tip 4: Sort and Filter Your Data

Use sorting and filtering functions in your spreadsheet or tool to view your keyword data from different perspectives.

For example, you can sort keywords by search volume or keyword difficulty to identify high-potential opportunities.

Alternatively, you can filter your data to view keywords within a specific category or with a certain user intent.

Tip 5: Visualize Your Data

Consider creating visual representations of your keyword data, such as charts and graphs, to gain a better understanding of trends, patterns, and relationships.

Visualizations can help you identify opportunities, prioritize your efforts, and communicate your findings more effectively to your team.

Tip 6: Continuously Update and Refine Your Keyword Data

Keyword research is an ongoing process.

As you discover new keywords, trends, and insights, update your keyword data accordingly.

Regularly review and refine your keyword lists to ensure they remain relevant and effective in driving traffic and conversions.

Tip 7: Track Your Performance

Monitor the performance of your content and marketing campaigns to determine the effectiveness of your keyword strategy.

Analyse metrics such as organic traffic, click-through rate, conversion rate, and rankings to identify areas for improvement and adjust your keyword strategy as needed.

By following these tips for organizing and analysing your keyword data, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions about your content and marketing efforts.

A well-organised and analysed keyword strategy will ultimately help you create more targeted, effective content that resonates with your audience and drives results.

Prioritising Keywords and Creating a Content Plan Based on Research Findings

In this section, we’ll explore how to prioritise keywords and create a content plan based on the insights you’ve gathered from your comprehensive keyword research.

By strategically focusing on high-priority keywords and crafting engaging content around them, you’ll be able to drive more traffic, generate leads, and boost conversions.

Step 1: Assess Keyword Metrics

Start by evaluating the keyword metrics you’ve collected during your research, such as search volume, keyword difficulty, and CPC data.

These metrics can help you gauge the potential value and competitiveness of each keyword.

• Search Volume:
  Higher search volume indicates greater interest and potential traffic. However, high search volume keywords often come with increased competition.
• Keyword Difficulty:
  Lower keyword difficulty scores suggest that it’s easier to rank for the keyword. Targeting low-difficulty keywords can provide quicker results, especially for newer websites or businesses.
• CPC Data:
  Higher CPC values indicate that advertisers are willing to pay more for clicks on a specific keyword. This can suggest higher commercial intent and potential for conversion.

Step 2: Determine Relevance and User Intent

Assess each keyword’s relevance to your niche or industry, as well as the user intent behind it.

Focus on keywords that are both relevant to your target audience and have clear user intent.

• Relevance:
  Ensure the keyword aligns with your products, services, or content offerings. Targeting irrelevant keywords can attract uninterested users and lead to low conversion rates.
• User Intent:
  Consider the user’s goal when searching for a specific keyword. User intent can be informational, transactional, or navigational. Focus on keywords with strong user intent that match your marketing objectives.

Step 3: Prioritise Your Keywords

Now that you’ve assessed your keywords based on metrics, relevance, and user intent, it’s time to prioritise them.

Create a priority list or assign a priority score to each keyword, taking into account the following factors:

• High search volume
• Low keyword difficulty
• Strong user intent
• High relevance to your niche or industry
• Commercial potential (CPC or conversion rate)

Step 4: Develop Your Content Plan

With your prioritized keyword list in hand, create a content plan that addresses the needs and interests of your target audience.

Consider the following steps when developing your plan:

• Identify Content Types:
  Determine the most suitable content format for each keyword, such as blog posts, videos, infographics, or social media updates.
• Create Content Themes:
  Group related keywords into themes or topics to create comprehensive, cohesive content that covers various aspects of a subject.
• Outline Your Content:
  Develop outlines for each piece of content, incorporating target keywords, related keywords, and user intent. Ensure that your content adds value, answers questions, and addresses pain points.
• Schedule Your Content:
  Create a content calendar to plan and schedule your content production and publication. This will help you maintain consistency and meet your audience’s expectations.

Step 5: Optimise and Promote Your Content

As you create content based on your prioritised keywords and content plan, ensure that it’s optimised for both search engines and users.

Follow SEO best practices, such as including target keywords in your title, headings, and body text, as well as optimising your images Alt texts, meta descriptions, and URL structures.

Additionally, promote your content through social media, email marketing, and other relevant channels to increase visibility and drive more traffic.

Step 6: Monitor Your Results and Adjust Your Strategy

By prioritising keywords and creating a content plan based on your research findings, you’ll be well-equipped to develop targeted, engaging content that resonates with your audience and drives results.

Keep monitoring your performance, refining your keyword strategy, and adjusting your content plan as needed to stay ahead of the competition and maintain a strong online presence.

As you execute your content plan, it’s essential to track your performance to determine the effectiveness of your keyword strategy and content efforts.

Keep an eye on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as organic traffic, search rankings, click-through rates, and conversion rates.

• Analyse Your Data:
  Use analytics tools like Google Analytics or your preferred platforms to assess your content performance. Identify the keywords and content types that drive the most traffic, engagement, and conversions.
• Learn from Your Successes and Failures:
  Identify the aspects of your content strategy that worked well and those that didn’t. Use these insights to refine your keyword priorities and content plan moving forward.
• Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends:
  Keep abreast of industry trends, emerging topics, and search algorithm updates to ensure your keyword strategy and content plan remain relevant and effective.

Step 7: Iterate and Improve

Keyword research and content planning are ongoing processes.

As you learn from your performance data and industry trends, continue to iterate and improve your keyword strategy and content plan.

• Conduct Regular Keyword Research:
  Revisit your keyword research periodically to uncover new opportunities, assess the competitive landscape, and stay ahead of industry trends.
• Update and Optimize Existing Content:
  Review your existing content and optimize it for new or improved target keywords. Update outdated information, add new insights, and enhance your content’s overall quality and value.
• Experiment with New Content Formats and Channels:
  Test different content formats and distribution channels to reach a wider audience, increase engagement, and drive better results.

Summary

Keyword research is an essential aspect of SEO and content creation.

It helps you identify whatever it is that your audience is searching for, enabling you to create targeted and relevant content that provides value to your readers and ranks well in search engine results.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered the importance of keyword research, different types of keywords, and various methods for conducting keyword research.

We also introduced some popular keyword research tools, including Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, Moz Keyword Explorer, and Jaaxy, as well as useful browser extensions like Keywords Everywhere, MozBar, SEOquake, Keyword Surfer, SERPstat Website SEO Checker, and SEO Minion.

We’ve provided tips for combining tools and manual methods for a comprehensive keyword research approach and shared advice on organizing and analysing keyword data.

Lastly, we discussed how to prioritise keywords and create a content plan based on your research findings.

To achieve success in keyword research, it’s essential to practice and refine your skills continually.

By leveraging a combination of tools, manual methods, and continuous learning, you’ll be better equipped to create engaging and high-performing content that attracts and converts your target audience.

Remember, keyword research is an acquired skill, and with dedication and practice, it can become one of the most valuable assets in your SEO and content creation toolbox.

By continuously monitoring, analysing, and refining your keyword strategy and content plan, you’ll be well-positioned to create engaging, high-performing content that attracts and converts your target audience.

Stay proactive, agile, and responsive to changes in your industry and the search landscape to maintain a strong online presence and achieve long-term success.

Wishing you happy research and planning!

If you have something to say please use the comments or the contact form to get in touch. Thank you!
😉
Richard