In the context of search engines, a keyword is a specific word or phrase that a user types into a search bar in order to find something on the internet. For example, if you're looking for a new pair of trainers, you might type "best running shoes" into a search engine. "Best" and "running shoes" are both keywords in this case.
Now, why are keywords so important? Well, when it comes to search engine optimisation (SEO), keywords play a vital role. SEO is the practice of optimising your website or online content in order to rank higher in search engine results. And one of the main factors that search engines use to determine the relevance of a website or webpage is the presence of certain keywords.
So, how do you find the right keywords to use in your content? There are a few different ways you can go about it:
Brainstorming
Start by thinking about what your audience might be searching for. What are the main topics or products you offer on your website? Write down a list of relevant words and phrases that come to mind.
Use keyword research tools
There are a number of online tools that can help you find popular keywords related to your topic. Some examples include Google's Keyword Planner and SEMrush. These tools can give you an idea of how often certain keywords are searched for, as well as related keywords that you may not have thought of.
Look at your competitors
Check out the websites of your competitors and see what keywords they're using. This can give you an idea of what's working for them and help you come up with new ideas.
Once you've identified some potential keywords, it's important to use them wisely in your content. Here are a few tips:
Use keywords naturally
Don't stuff your content with keywords just for the sake of it. This is called "keyword stuffing" and it can actually hurt your SEO efforts. Instead, try to use keywords naturally and in a way that makes sense in the context of your content.
Use long-tail keywords
These are longer, more specific phrases that are less competitive and often more targeted. For example, "best running shoes for cross country" is a long-tail keyword. These can be more effective at driving traffic to your website because they're more specific and often have less competition.
Use keywords in your titles and headings
Search engines give extra weight to keywords that appear in titles and headings, so be sure to include them in these important areas.
By following these tips and using keywords wisely, you can improve your SEO and increase the chances of your website or online content ranking higher in search engine results.