Understanding the significance of keyword research, it’s clear that identifying and targeting the right keywords is crucial for crafting content across your website. Furthermore, it’s advisable to explore related terms to maximize user reach on a single page. This is where keyword clustering becomes instrumental. Even with a well-developed keyword strategy, you might be unknowingly engaging in keyword clustering!
What exactly is keyword clustering, and why is it essential for your SEO content? Discover all the nuances here:
– What is keyword clustering?
– Keyword clustering example
– Does content keyword help SEO?
– How to do keyword clustering
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Keyword clustering involves categorizing keywords based on search intent. Reflect on how users search for information; they don’t always use the same exact phrase, but rather a variety of terms that guide Google to provide the most suitable results.
For instance, a search for “chocolate chip cookie dough recipe” and “chocolate chip cookie recipe” indicates the same intent. The search engine results pages (SERPs) for both queries are almost identical:
[Image of SERPs for “chocolate chip cookie dough recipe”]
To effectively cater to all users, your keyword cluster should encompass both terms.
Absolutely! As previously discussed, users search using a multitude of terms, increasing the likelihood of your page ranking in the SERPs when targeting multiple keywords.
Keyword grouping also aids in:
– Exploring new ideas: Quality keyword research and cluster identification can uncover additional topics you might not have considered. If leading pages address specific questions, you should too.
– Reaching new SEO target areas: Some keywords may not be as effective for SEO due to low search volume. Keyword clustering allows you to target these low-volume keywords, adding more value to your page.
– Improving content quality: Keyword grouping helps create better content by understanding what users are searching for and providing it. Since we create content for people, not just search engines, thorough and helpful content is essential.
Here’s how to perform keyword clustering and expand your web content:
1. Create a list of keywords
2. Sort your keywords
3. Plan your strategy
4. Track your keyword rankings
The first step in any keyword strategy is identifying the keywords you want to use. Tools like Ahrefs or KeywordsFX can simplify the process.
[Image of Ahrefs tool]
With a starting keyword, you can use their keyword analysis tool to find additional keywords for your cluster. For example, if your keyword is “best airplane luggage,” you can input that into the tool and select your search engine:
[Image of Ahrefs results for “best airplane luggage”]
From there, you’ll receive an overview of the keyword metrics, including density, ranking difficulty, and recommended keywords to target.
[Image of Ahrefs results for “best airplane luggage”]
Another aspect of finding keywords is conducting competitor analysis on top-ranking pages. Analyzing what’s currently ranking can help identify related terms.
[Image of Ahrefs competitor analysis]
By entering the URL into Ahrefs’ Site Explorer, you can see what terms the top-ranking pages use. Clicking “Position” on the results page will order the positions from highest to lowest:
[Image of Ahrefs competitor analysis]
From here, you can create a list of keywords that drive results in the SERPs.
[Image of Ahrefs competitor analysis]
Finally, to find keyword clusters, examine the terms, outlines, and topics on pages ranking well in the SERPs. A quick Google search and skim can provide insight into what topics you should cover to land on the first page.
[Image of SERPs for “best airplane luggage”]
Now that you have a list of keywords, sort them into groups based on standard classifications:
– Informational: Seeking information
– Navigational: Searching for a specific website
– Commercial: Seeking information before making a purchase
– Transactional: Ready to complete a purchase
Analyze the SERPs for each keyword to determine where your keywords naturally fall. Even if keywords are similar, each one will have a specific intent.
[Image of SERPs for “best running shoes”]
For example, the SERPs for “best running shoes” show a more informational intent, with several articles ranking and discussing running shoe options:
[Image of SERPs for “best running shoes”]
However, the term “running shoes” is more transactional or commercial, as more pages are direct links to buy running shoes:
[Image of SERPs for “running shoes”]
When deciding which words to group together and add to a page, consider the SERPs more carefully. Are the same pages ranking for different keywords? If so, those keywords should be grouped together.
Also, think about the content you can create for each term. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to combine topics rather than create two separate, thin pages.
Once you have a list of keyword clusters, select a target keyword for each group. Use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or others to check keyword density and difficulty. Aim for a balance between high enough volume and manageable difficulty.
You may have to choose a keyword with lower volume, as it will be easier to rank for. The rest of the keywords in that cluster will be secondary options.
You can either start creating pages by content cluster or identify existing pages for re-optimization. Outline a strategy that combines writing and reworking to launch pages across your site. Organizing your topic clusters with keywords will help you stay on track while planning.
Once your pages and changes go live, monitor your keyword clustering strategy to ensure its effectiveness. If you don’t notice any changes or your pages rank lower than desired, rework your keywords, content, and strategy.
Creating a schedule for content maintenance can make this process easier and ensure you don’t neglect any pages.
Now that you understand the basics of keyword clustering, implement it into your content strategy. If you want to find the right keywords and create conversion-driving content, WebFX is here to help.
We offer a wealth of blog posts and resources for finding keywords and using them effectively. Additionally, our content marketing services allow you to take a more hands-off approach to adding impactful content to your site.
For more information, call us today at 888-601-5359 to speak with a strategist!
