Guide to Keywords for SEO

Specky Geek

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A person using Google search

SEO for Beginners — A Guide to SEO Keywords

Looking to start your search engine optimization (SEO) journey? Whether you want to make a career in SEO or you are a business owner looking to expand your digital footprint using your website, you need to understand the concepts of SEO. Specky Geek presents to you SEO for Beginners, a series of articles for comprehensive understanding of SEO.

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What are Keywords in SEO?

Keywords in SEO (Search Engine Optimization) are specific words or phrases users enter into search engines such as Google and Bing to discover information.

In a website or blog, the keywords reflect the main topics of a web page’s content. These keywords are strategically chosen to reach people searching for some information, products or services. Relevant keywords on a webpage help search engines understand what the page is about, making it more likely to be displayed in search engine results for related queries.

Here are key aspects of keywords in SEO:

  1. Relevance: Keywords should be directly related to the content on a webpage. They should accurately represent the main theme or subject matter of the page.
  2. User Intent: Effective keyword selection takes into account the intent of the user. Understanding what users are looking for when they use specific keywords allows website owners to tailor their content to meet those needs.
  3. Search Volume: Search volume refers to the number of times a particular keyword is searched for on search engines. Keywords with higher search volumes generally indicate more significant potential traffic but may also have more competition.
  4. Competition: Some keywords are highly competitive, meaning that many websites are trying to rank for them. It’s important to find a balance between choosing keywords with decent search volume and manageable competition.
  5. Long-Tail Keywords: These are longer and more specific keyword phrases. While they may have lower search volumes, they often attract more targeted and qualified traffic. Long-tail keywords are particularly valuable for niche markets.

Keywords are integral to on-page optimization of webpages for SEO. Once keywords are identified, they are strategically placed in various elements of a webpage, including the title tag, meta description, headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.), and throughout the content. This on-page optimization signals to search engines the relevance of the content to specific queries.

While keywords are critical for SEO, the content should be informative, engaging, and fulfill the user’s expectations based on their search query.

What are Long-Tail Keywords?

Long-tail keywords are specific and highly targeted search phrases that typically consist of three or more words. Unlike short and generic keywords, long-tail keywords are more detailed and specific, catering to a niche audience. These keyword phrases are often used by individuals who are searching for something very particular or have a clear intent in mind.

Here are some characteristics that distinguish long-tail keywords:

  1. Specificity: Long-tail keywords are more precise in describing what the user is looking for. For example, while a short-tail keyword like “running shoes” is broad, a long-tail keyword like “best trail running shoes for flat feet” is more specific.
  2. Lower Search Volume: Due to their specificity, long-tail keywords generally have lower search volumes compared to broader, more generic terms. However, this can be an advantage, as it often means less competition for those keywords.
  3. Higher Conversion Potential: Users searching with long-tail keywords often have a clearer and more defined intent. They are likely further along in the buying cycle and are more likely to convert into customers or take a specific action.
  4. Tailored to Voice Search: With the rise of voice-activated devices and voice search, long-tail keywords have gained even more importance. People tend to use more natural, conversational language when speaking, leading to longer and more specific search queries.
  5. Niche Focus: Long-tail keywords are excellent for targeting specific niches or addressing particular needs. This can be especially beneficial for businesses that operate in specialized markets.
  6. Content Relevance: Long-tail keywords allow content creators to create highly relevant and targeted content. When a webpage aligns closely with the user’s specific query, it is more likely to rank well in search engine results.

What is Search Intent of SEO Keywords?

Beyond words, keywords encapsulate user intent. Understanding the motivations behind specific search queries allows you to align your content with user expectations. When your content offers exactly what the user is searching, it enhances the relevance of your content and positions your website as a valuable resource in the eyes of search engines.

Search intent encapsulates the purpose behind a user’s search query. It delves into the reasons why someone types specific words into a search engine.

What is Keyword Research in SEO?

Keyword research tools, such as Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Moz Keyword Explorer, assist in identifying relevant keywords. These tools provide insights into search volumes, competition, and related keyword suggestions.

Google Keyword Planner, a feature of Google Ads by the search giant, provides estimations of search volumes and competition. Moz, Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Majestic, on the other hand, have more in-depth data, offering detailed competitor analysis, backlink information, and keyword variations.

Here are some free tools for keyword discovery and research:

Conclusion

In the constantly changing online world, mastering SEO keywords is the foundation of success. When you start your digital marketing with the right keywords, and understanding user needs, your website stands out in the vast internet space. Getting keywords right and creating interesting content are the keys to ongoing success online.