How to Do Keyword Research for Content Writing (2023 Guide)

The content landscape of 2023 is remarkably different, and central to this transformation is knowing how to do keyword research for content writing. It’s no longer a simple task of cherry-picking popular phrases. Instead, it’s about crafting a narrative that truly resonates. 

As the digital world keeps evolving, mastering this skill becomes increasingly essential. With the right techniques, we can navigate these changes and thrive in them. Ready? I’ll help you dive deep and elevate your content strategy.

Now, How to Do Keyword Research for Content Writing?

In this section, I’m about to outline the 6 indispensable steps to guide you.

 1. Define Your Niche & Understand Your Audience

• Objective: Identify your specific field and the audience you wish to reach.
• Action: Study current trends in your industry (Google Trends), conduct surveys, and use analytics tools (Google Analytics) to grasp your target demographic’s interests and needs.

2. Brainstorm Initial Keyword Ideas

• Objective: Generate a list of potential keywords rooted in your expertise. (Google Keyword Planner)
• Action: Think about topics and questions common in your niche. Combine your industry knowledge with common queries to produce an initial keyword list.

3. Use Tools to Expand Your Keyword List

• Objective: Broaden your initial list with related keywords.
• Action: Employ tools like Ahrefs or Ubersuggest. These tools provide insights into related keywords, question-based queries, and more, enriching your initial list.

4. Analyze Competition & Search Volume

• Objective: Determine the viability of each keyword.
• Action: Utilize tools like SEMrush to evaluate keyword competitiveness and monthly search volumes. Strive for a balance between search volume and competitiveness.

5. Prioritize Long-Tail Keywords & Understand User Intent

• Objective: Enhance specificity and match user queries more closely.
• Action: Shift focus to long-tail keywords—these are longer (3 – 5 words), more specific phrases that users will likely search for. Delve into search intent: Are users looking for information, a product, or a solution?

6. Integrate Keywords into Your Content Strategy

• Objective: Seamlessly weave your final list of keywords into your content.
• Action: As you craft content, ensure that keywords are incorporated naturally, without stuffing. Each piece should provide value, with keywords enhancing, not detracting from the user experience.

Understanding The Basics 

What Are Keywords?

Keywords are specific terms or phrases that encapsulate the core themes of your content. In the vast realm of the internet, they act as signposts directing users to the most relevant pieces of information based on their queries.

Example: Consider an article about gardening in small spaces. “Small space gardening” or “urban gardening tips” would likely be your primary keywords.

Why Are Keywords Crucial for Content Writing?

Keywords bridge the gap between user searches and relevant content. By incorporating the right keywords, you ensure your content reaches those who are genuinely interested in the topic.

Example: If you’ve written a review about wireless earbuds, using the keyword “best wireless earbuds 2023” can help you reach potential readers looking for the latest recommendations.

The Relationship Between Keywords and Search Engine Rankings

Search engines like Google utilize keywords to evaluate and rank the relevance of content about a user’s query. These keywords’ strategic use and placement play a significant role in determining your content’s visibility in search results.

Example: A blog post about vegan desserts, infused with keywords like “easy vegan brownies” or “dairy-free ice cream,” stands a better chance of ranking higher when searched for those terms.

Always prioritize keywords that boast both volume and low SEO difficulty. After all, keywords without volume offer no real value.

-Brian Barcenilla

Importance of Tracking and Analytics

With the rise of techniques on how to do keyword research for content writing, the emphasis on results has never been more pronounced. Accurate tracking and analytics are vital to decipher the impact of your keyword choices. This not only gives a clear picture of how your keywords perform in search engines but also provides insights into user engagement and behavior.

Tools for Monitoring Keyword Performance

The effectiveness of your approach to “how to do keyword research for content writing” can be gauged using several sophisticated tools. Each tool offers unique features and insights to help refine your strategy:

Tips for Successful Keyword Implementation

Natural Integration of Keywords

Ensuring keywords fit seamlessly within your content is crucial. They should enhance the narrative, not disrupt it. By integrating keywords naturally, you maintain the quality and authenticity of your content, prioritizing the reader’s experience and ensuring the information is accessible and engaging.

Avoid Keyword Stuffing

Overloading your content with excessive keywords, known as keyword stuffing, can be detrimental. Modern search engines are designed to prioritize user experience, and they can penalize content that’s deemed inauthentic or of low quality. Avoid the temptation to saturate; focus instead on creating valuable, keyword-optimized content that speaks to your audience. Be careful!

Use LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) Keywords

LSI keywords, semantically related to your primary keyword, add depth and context to your content. They assist search engines in determining the relevance and breadth of your content. Incorporating these semantically related terms enriches your content and makes it more comprehensive, catering to a more diverse array of search queries.

Update Old Content

Digital trends and user search patterns evolve over time. To ensure your content remains relevant and competitive, it’s vital to revisit and update older content with current keywords periodically. This practice not only bolsters its ranking potential but also rejuvenates its appeal to your audience.

Prioritize User Intent

Beyond just focusing on popular keywords, consider the intent behind user searches. Tailor your content to answer questions, solve problems, or provide value based on what users genuinely seek.

Looking to hire an SEO content writer? Not sure where to begin? Discover the right approach with our guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

SEO about adapting to changing technologies and user behaviors. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

Overlooking Local SEO

Local searches are a big deal. People often look for services or products close to them, and if your business needs to be optimized for local searches, you’re missing out.

• Scenario: Imagine a bookstore in Seattle that needs to mention its specific location online. When locals search for “bookstores near me,” this store won’t show up, missing potential foot traffic.
• Insight: Always ensure your business details are updated and specific so you’re on the map when locals search.

Ignoring Voice Search

The rise of smart devices has changed the way people search. Conversational and longer queries are becoming common with voice searches.

• Scenario: Think of someone asking Siri for “the best pet-friendly café nearby.” If your café isn’t voice-search ready, you’re invisible to them.
• Insight: Adapt your SEO strategy to include natural, conversational keywords, reflecting how people talk.

Only Chasing High-Volume Keywords

It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the relevance. High-volume keywords can be super competitive and might only sometimes translate to your target audience.

• Scenario: Let’s say you sell artisanal coffee beans and target the generic “coffee beans” keyword. You’ll be competing with giants like Starbucks, making it tough to stand out.
• Insight: Sometimes, narrower keywords like “hand-roasted Arabica beans” can be more fruitful, tapping into a niche market with less competition.

Now, Are You Truly Keyword-Ready?

Mastering ‘How to Do Keyword Research for Content Writing’ is an ongoing journey, adapting as technology and the keyword research landscape shift. We’ve broken down the intricate details of this craft, but the true value lies in consistently applying, measuring, and evolving our strategies based on these insights.

Ask yourself: Are my current practices aligning with these insights? Is there room for improvement?

Remember, it’s not just about being on the digital stage; it’s about shining on it. If you’re seeking tailored solutions to elevate your content strategy further, consider reaching out to BNB services. Our team of experts is committed to ensuring your content isn’t just found but resonates and engages. Dive deeper, explore more, and be genuinely keyword-ready with us.

Have you learned something from this post? Care to share with us!