How to Find Keywords That Work

Keywords and keyword phrases are the terms that are specifically implemented in website content. Certain keywords are chosen based on their search popularity, level of competition, and their estimated cost per click (CPC). Finding keywords for your content can be tough in the beginning, but once you learn where to look, it will become second nature. Read on to learn where and how to find keywords:

1. Step 1

   Find the Right Keyword Tools
   
   There are a myriad of keyword tools available to writers. Many are free, while some charge a fee, but most depend on the same source to compile their information: the Google AdWords Keyword Tool. Google has built one of the most informative tools for advertisers and publishers alike, and it's the best place to start looking for keywords. The tool is free to use, and you can find it by visiting the address below:
   
   https://adwords.google.com/select/KeywordToolExternal

2. Step 2

   Start With Topics You Know
   
   Many writers make the mistake of selecting keywords based solely on their estimated CPC; while you should factor this into your final choice, it's not the best way to select keywords. Chances are, you know nothing about many of the high-paying keywords, and your visitors will know this when they read through your content. You want to offer your readers valuable content, and build a rapport with them to keep them coming back for more.
   
   Enter one or two keywords into the search box at the top of the keyword tool and hit search. You'll receive a list of keywords related to your initial search terms, along with the current competition and the previous month's search volume (how many people searched for that specific term). Using the drop-down menu box, you can also select “Estimated Avg. CPC,” which will display the estimated cost per click for each term – how much you could potentially earn every time someone clicks on an advertisement for that keyword on your page or article. The goal is to choose a keyword with a higher search volume – 5,000 is the lowest you want to go – with limited competition, and with a high estimated CPC.

3. Step 3

   Use Google Search to Find Keywords
   
   You can also find keywords using Google's search engine, or test the popularity of the keywords you have selected. Visit Google's homepage to use their search engine – Google.com – and type in your keywords, one at a time. Google has a function that “completes” your possible search term, based on popularity. For example, if the keyword you enter is “shoes,” Google suggest terms like “shoes for crews” or “shoes on sale” in the drop-down box. Because these results are based on popularity, it's a great way to find potential keywords. You can check any keywords or phrases you find in the Google AdWords Keyword Tool to find that keyword's CPC, popularity, and search volume, to see if it's a good keyword to use in your writing.

More Keyword suggestion links and tools will be added soon :)