Keyword Research for Beginners
Learn how to find the words and phrases your ideal customers are already typing into Google so you can build content that ranks, attracts traffic, and converts.
What You’ll Learn
- What keywords are and why they matter for SEO and customer intent.
- How to find simple, low-competition keywords without advanced tools.
- The difference between informational, commercial, and local intent.
- How to build a keyword list for your homepage, services, and blogs.
What Are Keywords?
Keywords are the search phrases that customers type into Google when they want to solve a problem, get an answer, or find a service. Keywords reveal the intent behind the search and help shape your content.
Short-Tail Keywords
1–2 words, broad, high competition.
- “plumber”
- “web design”
- “landscaping”
Long-Tail Keywords
3–6 words, specific, easier to rank for.
- “emergency plumber near me”
- “affordable web design for small business”
- “landscaping services in Dallas”
Why Keyword Research Matters
- Aligns your content with what customers search for.
- Increases qualified traffic (people ready to buy or learn).
- Improves rankings because your pages match search intent.
- Reduces guesswork—you know exactly what topics to target.
Understanding Search Intent
Informational Intent
Users want answers or how-to guidance.
- “how to fix a leaking pipe”
- “what is brand design”
Commercial Intent
Users are comparing options before buying.
- “best web designer in Houston”
- “top local SEO services”
Local Intent
Users want services nearby.
- “roof repair near me”
- “family dentist in Chicago”
Beginner-Friendly Keyword Research Method
-
Brainstorm 10–20 Keyword Ideas
Write down the services you offer and problems your customers search for.
- “web design for restaurants”
- “how to fix cracked drywall”
- “best cleaning service near me”
-
Use Google Autocomplete
Start typing your keyword into Google and note the suggestions—it’s free real search data.
- “web designer for ___”
- “how to ___ DIY”
- “best ___ near me”
-
Check “People Also Ask” Boxes
Google reveals the exact questions potential customers ask. These make perfect blog topics or FAQs.
- “What does a small business website need?”
- “How much does web design cost?”
-
Review Competitor Pages
Search your top service keyword and open the top 3 competitors. Look for:
- Main keywords in their headings.
- Topics they repeat often.
- Gaps you could fill with better content.
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Use a Free Keyword Tool (Optional)
Helpful tools for difficulty and volume:
- Google Keyword Planner
- Ubersuggest
- AnswerThePublic
- Ahrefs Free Tools
Building Your Simple Keyword List
Create 3 buckets:
- Primary Keywords (Main Pages) — “web design services,” “roof repair Dallas”
- Supporting Keywords (Subpages) — “ecommerce web design,” “roof leak repair”
- Blog/Informational Keywords — “how much does a website cost,” “signs of roof damage”
Each bucket serves a different role in your SEO strategy.
Keyword Examples for Service Businesses
Web Designer
- web design for small business
- website design near me
- affordable web design services
Cleaning Service
- house cleaning near me
- deep cleaning service cost
- office cleaning company
Contractor
- kitchen remodel contractor
- bathroom remodel cost
- general contractor near me
Mini Exercises (10–20 Minutes)
- List 5–10 problems your customer is trying to solve; convert each into a search phrase.
- Use Google Autocomplete to expand each phrase into 3–5 long-tail keywords.
- Pick one keyword for your next blog post and outline 3 supporting subtopics.
Quick Keyword Research Checklist
- Start with long-tail keywords (easier wins).
- Match keywords to real search intent.
- Look at competitor headings and page structure.
- Use questions from “People Also Ask” for content ideas.
- Group keywords into primary, supporting, and blog-focused.