How to Use Google Keyword Planner for Keyword Research

Keyword research is one of the most important aspects of any SEO campaign. Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that can help you identify the best keywords for your website. In this article, we will explain how to use Google Keyword Planner for keyword research, step by step.

What is Google Keyword Planner?

Google Keyword Planner is a free tool provided by Google Ads that allows you to research keywords for your website. It helps you identify the best keywords to target for your SEO and PPC campaigns. Keyword Planner provides information on search volume, competition, and estimated cost per click for each keyword.

Why is Keyword Research Important?

Keyword research is important because it helps you identify the best keywords to target for your website. By targeting the right keywords, you can attract more traffic to your website and improve your search engine rankings. Keyword research also helps you understand your target audience and their search behavior.

Creating a Google Ads Account

To access Google Keyword Planner, you need to have a Google Ads account. If you don’t have one already, you can create one for free. Go to the Google Ads homepage and click on the “Start now” button. Follow the steps to create your account.

Accessing Google Keyword Planner

Once you have created your Google Ads account, you can access Keyword Planner by clicking on the “Tools & Settings” menu and selecting “Keyword Planner.” You will be taken to the Keyword Planner dashboard.

Choosing Your Targeting Options

Before you start searching for keywords, you need to choose your targeting options. You can target keywords by location, language, and search network. You can also filter by date range and include or exclude specific keywords.

Searching for Keywords

To search for keywords, click on the “Discover new keywords” tab. Enter a product or service related to your website and click on “Get results.” Keyword Planner will provide you with a list of relevant keywords along with their search volume, competition, and estimated cost per click.

Analyzing Keyword Data

Keyword Planner provides a lot of data on each keyword, including search volume, competition, and estimated cost per click. Use this data to identify the best keywords for your website. Look for keywords with high search volume and low competition.

Identifying Keyword Opportunities

Keyword Planner also provides information on related keywords and their search volume. Use this information to identify keyword opportunities that you may have missed. Look for keywords that are related to your website but have lower competition.

Using Keyword Planner for Content Creation

Keyword Planner can also be used for content creation. Use the “Find new keywords” tab to enter a URL or a list of keywords related to your website. Keyword Planner will provide you with a list of relevant keywords that you can use in your content.

Exporting Keyword Data

Keyword Planner allows you to export keyword data in CSV format. Use this data to analyze your keywords and create a targeted SEO and PPC campaign.

Other Keyword Research Tools

While Google Keyword Planner is a great tool for keyword research, there are other tools that you can use to supplement your research. Some popular tools include:

  • Ahrefs Keyword Explorer
  • SEMrush Keyword Magic Tool
  • Moz Keyword Explorer
  • Ubersuggest

Each of these tools provides unique features and data that can help you find the best keywords for your website.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using Google Keyword Planner for keyword research, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid:

  • Targeting keywords with high competition and low search volume
  • Focusing on broad keywords instead of long-tail keywords
  • Ignoring related keywords and keyword opportunities
  • Overusing keywords in your content

By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a more effective keyword strategy and improve your search engine rankings.

Conclusion

Google Keyword Planner is a powerful tool that can help you find the best keywords for your website. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can conduct effective keyword research and improve your SEO and PPC campaigns.

FAQs

Is Google Keyword Planner free to use?

Yes, Google Keyword Planner is a free tool provided by Google Ads.

Can Keyword Planner be used for PPC campaigns?

Yes, Keyword Planner can be used to identify keywords for PPC campaigns as well as SEO.

How do I choose the best keywords for my website?

Choose keywords with high search volume and low competition. Also, focus on long-tail keywords and related keywords.

Can I export keyword data from Keyword Planner?

Yes, you can export keyword data from Keyword Planner in CSV format.

Are there other keyword research tools besides Keyword Planner?

Yes, there are many other keyword research tools available, such as Ahrefs Keyword Explorer and SEMrush Keyword Magic Tool.