If you've ever typed something like “Best coffee shops in New York” or “iPhone 14 price in Canada” into Google, congratulations — you've already used a keyword. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what keywords are, why they matter, the different types, and how to choose the right ones to attract real, targeted visitors. All explained in plain English — no SEO degree required.
What Are Keywords?
In simple terms, keywords are the words or phrases people type into search engines like Google to find information, products, or services. They are the keys to unlocking traffic to your website. If your content includes the same keywords people are searching for — and they’re used smartly throughout your page — your chances of showing up in the top results increase.
Example:
Imagine you own a vegan bakery. If someone searches for:
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“Vegan cakes Toronto”
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“Best gluten-free desserts near me”
And these exact terms appear in your blog title, intro, and meta description — Google might rank your page higher, making it easier for people to find your bakery.
The 2 Main Types of Keywords
1. Short-Tail Keywords
These are one or two words, very broad in meaning.
Examples:
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“Cakes”
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“Shoes”
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“Fitness”
2. Long-Tail Keywords
These are more specific, usually three or more words.
Examples:
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“Best vegan bakery in downtown Toronto”
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“Affordable running shoes for flat feet”
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“Home workout routines without equipment”
Why Are Keywords Important?
1. Improve SEO Rankings
By including relevant keywords in your titles, descriptions, and throughout your content, you help search engines understand what your page is about. This increases the chances of ranking higher in results.
2. Understand Search Intent
Not everyone searching is ready to buy. Keywords help you understand if someone is:
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Looking for information (“What is keto?”)
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Looking for a product or service (“Keto meal plans in Chicago”)
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Ready to buy (“Order keto meals online”)
3. Attract Targeted Leads
If your blog ranks for a term like “Buy electric bikes in Ottawa,” then most of the visitors landing on your site are likely ready to make a decision — whether it’s a purchase, a subscription, or a consultation.
The 5 Main Keyword Categories
1. Short-Tail Keywords
2. Long-Tail Keywords
3. LSI Keywords (Related Terms)
4. Branded Keywords
5. Search Intent-Based Keywords
Divided into three main types:
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Informational: “How to start a blog”
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Navigational: “Login to Facebook”
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Transactional: “Buy DSLR camera online”
How to Choose the Right Keywords
1. Know Your Audience
2. Identify Their Intent
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“Best hiking boots” → Informational
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“Buy waterproof hiking boots” → Transactional
3. Use Keyword Tools
Here are some free and paid tools to help you:
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Google Keyword Planner
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Ubersuggest
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Ahrefs
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SEMrush
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Answer The Public
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Google Trends
Each tool gives you data like:
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Search volume
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Competition level
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Cost-per-click (for ads)
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Related keyword ideas
4. Spy on Competitors
Check what top-ranking sites in your niche are targeting:
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Look at their blog titles
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Check URLs and meta descriptions
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Note repeated phrases or terms
How to Do Smart Keyword Research
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Brainstorm TopicsStart by listing what your audience might search for.
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Validate with ToolsPlug your ideas into tools to check if people actually search for them.
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Analyze CompetitionAvoid high-volume keywords if competition is too strong — focus on long-tail opportunities.
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Map Keywords to ContentUse informational keywords for blog posts, transactional ones for product pages, etc.
Final Thoughts
Focus on user intent, choose the right tools, and build content that matches what people
are truly searching for.