Ever spent hours writing a blog post, only for it to get zero traffic?
I’ve been there.
It’s frustrating, right?
But here’s the thing: the problem isn’t your writing—it’s your keyword research techniques.
If you’re not targeting the right keywords, you’re basically shouting into the void.
Let me show you how to fix that.
Why Keyword Research Matters
Let’s be real—no one’s going to read your content if they can’t find it.
Keyword research helps you:
- Understand what your audience is searching for.
- Rank higher on Google.
- Drive organic traffic to your site.
But here’s the kicker: if you’re not using the right techniques, you’re wasting your time.
My Go-To Keyword Research Techniques
1. Start with Seed Keywords
These are broad terms related to your niche.
For example, if you’re in fitness, your seed keywords might be:
- “Weight loss.”
- “Home workouts.”
- “Healthy eating.”
Use these as a starting point to dig deeper.
2. Use Keyword Research Tools
Tools make the process so much easier.
Here are my favourites:
- Google Keyword Planner: Free and reliable.
- Ahrefs: Great for competitor analysis.
- Ubersuggest: Simple and beginner-friendly.
3. Analyse Competitor Keywords
Your competitors are a goldmine of ideas.
Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to:
- See what keywords they’re ranking for.
- Find gaps they’re missing.
4. Focus on Long-Tail Keywords
These are longer, more specific phrases.
For example, instead of “weight loss,” target “how to lose weight after pregnancy.”
They’re easier to rank for and often have higher intent.
5. Check Search Intent
Not all keywords are created equal.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the user looking for?
- Is it informational, navigational, or transactional?
For example, “best running shoes” is transactional, while “how to run a marathon” is informational.
6. Use LSI Keywords
These are terms related to your main keyword.
For example, if your keyword is “keto diet,” LSI keywords might include:
- “Low-carb recipes.”
- “Ketosis.”
- “Keto meal plan.”
They help Google understand your content better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Search Volume: Low-volume keywords might not be worth targeting.
- Overlooking Competition: High-competition keywords can be tough to rank for.
- Forgetting About Intent: If the intent doesn’t match your content, you won’t rank.
How I Mastered Keyword Research
When I started, I thought keyword research was all about guessing.
I’d pick random keywords, write content, and hope for the best.
Spoiler: it didn’t work.
It wasn’t until I started using these techniques that my traffic skyrocketed.
Now, I never publish a post without proper keyword research.
Lesson learned: it’s not optional.
FAQs About Keyword Research Techniques
Q: How many keywords should I target per post?
A: Focus on one primary keyword and 2-3 related terms.
Q: Can I use the same keyword for multiple posts?
A: It’s better to target different keywords to avoid cannibalisation.
Q: How do I know if a keyword is worth targeting?
A: Look for a balance of search volume, competition, and relevance to your niche.
Final Thoughts
Keyword research techniques are the backbone of any successful SEO strategy.
They help you find the right keywords, create better content, and drive more traffic.
So, start with seed keywords, use the right tools, and always check search intent.
Your rankings (and traffic) will thank you.
