Let’s talk about how to do keyword research for SEO and online success. So what are keywords? They are the words your target audience types into their favourite search engine (like Google) when they are looking for information on a particular topic. It forms the foundations of any strong SEO strategy. 

1. Keywords and Key Phrases – What’s the difference? 

• Keywords – are single words
• keyphrases – are made up of a few words, they are separate words that build a phrase

Keywords should be one of the dominant SEO strategies used when creating your web pages. They are direct in their effect on how visible the web page will be to search engine traffic. The appearance of keywords must be taken into consideration in each aspect when building a website. Mainly because of the influence keywords have on the success of any site. Therefore, it ís key to know how to use them correctly.  

Long-Tail Keywords

Before we go any further, I think it is of primary importance to note you are not likely to rank for the use of a single word. You’re not going to rank for “butter” for example, despite you being a dairy farmer, and even if that’s what your target market is looking to buy.

Instead, what you want to look out for are the longer key phrases which give you a good sign of what your audience is looking to purchase. 

Let’s use this example. Say you are a dairy farmer that sells fresh dairy milk at the local farmers market. You have heard people say they are exploring how to make butter.

The key phrase, then that you might want to look into for a blog post or educational article could be “how to make butter at home with fresh milk” or something along those lines. This is a long-tail keyword more targeted towards your audience which they are more likely to use.

When I am writing an SEO article, I will target my keywords towards those who may be interested in purchasing an SEO package. Or, maybe to optimise their web site for better performance so they can rank in Google. I may use a phrase like “bests ways to create your SEO strategy” or “7 SEO strategy tips and tricks.”

2. How to Choose Keywords for SEO

Our next question after this is where to find these keywords.

• Well, you first need to find out what your target audience is typing into their favourite search engine? 
• Then, It begins with you guessing and knowing enough about your niche and topic of choice.
• After that, for you to come up with several words and phrases that you hope your audience may be using.

Granted from there, you have possibilities. 

3. Keyword Research Tools

One of the best and free tools available to you is Google. Start by entering one of your keywords to see what autofill options appear. Research different terms and start making your list. 

Once you have your list, search each phrase then scroll down to the bottom of the first search results page. There you will find a list of related searches, like the example below. Add these also to your list of keywords, and key phrases then choose those that make the most sense to you and the type of content you want to write about.

Another option is for you is to use a keyword tool. They are great for showing you how to do keyword research for SEO. Especially if you have a Google AdWords account, you will be able to use Google’s free tool that has a lot of great information on search volume and more. You can check out the video below on how to sign up for the Google Keyword Planner for free. There are, also paid keyword tools available that you can do your research with. 

4. Keyword Research Tips

Use your list of keywords and key phrases where it makes sense.

• in the title 
• in the content of your blog posts 
• In articles 
• In video descriptions
• don’t force it.
• always write for your reader first, search engines second.

You can use the keyword within your content a few times or several variations of your primary keyword within the content depending on length. But, do not overdo it. Google’s Algorithms does not like keyword stuffing, and as a result, you may be penalised for it. Remember, when writing your article to focus on both your target audience and the search engines to let them know what your content is teaching. 

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