Keyword Research Basics: Illustrated Guide

Keyword research is the foundation of SEO. It helps you understand what your audience is searching for, create relevant content, and improve your search engine rankings.

What Are Keywords?

Definition: Keywords are words or phrases users type into search engines to find information.
Example Diagram: Keyword Funnel
- Broad Keyword → Long-Tail Keyword → Target Keyword
- “Shoes” → “Running shoes” → “Best running shoes for beginners”
Why It Matters: Keywords guide your content, inform search engines, and connect you with your audience.

Types of Keywords

Short-Tail Keywords

1–2 words
High search volume, high competition
Example: “Shoes”

Long-Tail Keywords

3+ words
Specific, easier to rank for
Example: “Affordable running shoes for women”

Intent-Based Keywords:

Informational: “How to tie running shoes”
Navigational: “Nike official site”
Transactional: “Buy waterproof running shoes online

Why Keyword Research Matters

Helps identify audience needs
Improves search engine rankings
Drives targeted traffic
Guides content strategy

How to Conduct Keyword Research

Step 1: Brainstorm Topics

List ideas related to your website or business.

Step 2: Use SEO ONE

Generate keyword suggestions
See search volume and competition
Identify long-tail opportunities

Step 3: Analyze Competitors

Find which keywords competitors rank for
Identify gaps to create better content

Step 4: Prioritize Keywords

Focus on relevance, search volume, and competition

Keyword Mapping

Assign specific keywords to each page to prevent overlap and target the right search intent.

Example:

Homepage: “Running shoes online”
Blog Post: “Best running shoes for beginners”
Blog Post: “Running shoes for flat feet review”

Diagram: Keyword Mapping Flow

Page 1 → Keyword A

Page 2 → Keyword B

Page 3 → Keyword C

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only targeting high-volume keywords
Ignoring user intent
Reusing the same keyword on multiple pages
Not updating your keyword strategy regularly

Quick Keyword Research Checklist

Brainstorm relevant topics
Use SEO ONE to generate keyword ideas
Analyze competitor keywords
Focus on long-tail, intent-driven keywords
Map keywords to pages
Track performance and adjust strategy

This illustrated guide makes keyword research approachable and actionable, providing a clear roadmap for website owners.

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What Are Keywords?

Types of Keywords

Why Keyword Research Matters

How to Conduct Keyword Research

Keyword Mapping

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Quick Keyword Research Checklist

One Tool. Infinite SEO Power

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