Keyword research is an essential part of any SEO strategy, and it’s even more important in 2023. With so many businesses shifting their focus to online, it’s more crucial than ever to make sure you’re targeting the right keywords to drive traffic to your website. Here’s a checklist of things to keep in mind when doing your keyword research:

Keyword Research Checklist for 2023

1. Understand your target audience

Before you start researching keywords, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of who your target audience is. This will help you identify the keywords and phrases they’re likely to use when searching for products or services like yours.

2. Use the right tools

There are many keyword research tools available, such as Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, and Ahrefs. These tools can help you identify relevant keywords and get an idea of their search volume and competition.

Here are some popular keyword research tools:

• • Google Keyword Planner: This is a free tool from Google that allows you to research keywords and get an idea of their search volume, competition, and suggested bid for paid advertising.
  • SEMrush: This is a paid tool that offers a wide range of SEO and PPC features, including keyword research, competitor analysis, and backlink tracking.
  • Ahrefs: This is a paid tool that offers a wide range of SEO features, including keyword research, competitor analysis, and backlink tracking.
  • Keywords Everywhere: This is a browser extension that shows you search volume, CPC, and competition data for keywords on multiple websites.
  • UberSuggest: This is a free tool that generates keyword ideas based on a seed keyword and shows you search volume, CPC and competition data.
  • Moz Keyword Explorer: This is a paid tool that helps you research keywords, track your rankings and discover new opportunities.
  • SERPstat: This is a paid tool that provides a wide range of features, including keyword research, backlink analysis, and competitor analysis.
  • KWFinder: This is a paid tool that helps you research keywords, track your rankings and discover new opportunities.
  • Keyword Tool: This is a free tool that generates long-tail keyword ideas based on a seed keyword.

3. Focus on long-tail keywords

Long-tail keywords, which are longer and more specific phrases, are often less competitive and can drive more targeted traffic to your website.

4. Use Google’s autocomplete

Google’s autocomplete feature is a great way to identify new keywords and phrases that people are searching for. Just start typing a phrase into the search bar, and Google will suggest related terms.

5. Check out the competition

Take a look at your competitors’ websites and see what keywords they’re targeting. This can give you some ideas for your own keyword research.

6. Consider the intent behind the search

The intent behind a search is crucial when it comes to keyword research. Are people looking for information, to make a purchase, or to find a local business? Knowing the intent behind a search can help you identify the most relevant keywords.

7. Use keywords in your content

Once you’ve identified your keywords, make sure to use them in your content. This will help your website rank for those keywords and drive more traffic to your site.

8. Keep track of your progress

Regularly check your website’s performance and see how your keywords are doing. Use Google Analytics to track your traffic, bounce rate and conversion rate.

By following this checklist, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful keyword research strategy in 2023. Remember, keyword research is an ongoing process, so make sure to keep track of your progress and adjust your strategy as needed.

Why is keyword research important?

Keyword research is important because it helps you understand what your target audience is searching for and how to optimise your website to rank for those keywords. By targeting the right keywords, you can drive more targeted traffic to your site, which can lead to more conversions and sales.

Long-tail keywords vs short-tail keywords

Keywords play a crucial role in SEO and are used to optimise your website and content to rank for specific terms. When it comes to keywords, there are two main types: long-tail keywords and short-tail keywords. Understanding the difference between the two can help you make the most of your keyword research and optimisation efforts.

Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases that are less common in search queries.

They are typically 3-4 words long and are used to target a more niche audience. For example, “best running shoes for flat feet” is a long-tail keyword. These keywords are often less competitive and can drive more targeted traffic to your website.

On the other hand, short-tail keywords are more general and commonly used in search queries.

These keywords are usually one or two words long and are used to target a broad audience. For example, “running shoes” is a short-tail keyword. Short-tail keywords are more competitive and can drive more broad traffic to your website.

Both long-tail and short-tail keywords can be important for your SEO strategy Long-tail keywords can help you target a more specific audience, while short-tail keywords can help you drive more broad traffic to your website. It’s important to research and optimise for both types of keywords to get the best results.

In order to increase the chances of ranking high on search engine, you should aim to use a mix of long-tail and short-tail keywords. A long-tail keyword is more targeted, less competitive and it can convert better. However, short-tail keywords can drive more broad traffic to your website.

How can you use keywords in your content?

Once you’ve identified your keywords, you should use them in your website’s meta tags, such as the title and description, as well as in your content. Make sure to use your keywords in a natural and meaningful way, and avoid keyword stuffing.

How often should you update your keyword research

Keyword research is an ongoing process, so it’s important to regularly check your website’s performance and see how your keywords are doing. Use Google Analytics to track your traffic, bounce rate, and conversion rate. Based on the results, you can make changes to your keyword strategy as needed.