LSI keywords are terms, words or phrases that are semantically related to your primary target keyword.
Think of LSI keywords like synonyms.
They share a similar or connected meaning to the main keyword, but the different words give more context to the topic overall.
For example, if the primary target keyword is “healthy eating”, LSI keywords could include:
…and “healthy recipes.”
These words all share a connected meaning and would be used together if you were writing about “healthy eating.”
What does LSI stand for?
LSI stands for Latent Semantic Indexing.
Here’s how it works in Google’s algorithm:
Google’s algorithm uses NLP (Natural Language Processing) to determine what a webpage is about.
LSI keywords are like bonus words that are related to the main keyword. They help Google understand the content better. These extra keywords give more context and meaning to the main topic.
When you search for something on Google, the algorithm looks for the best match by understanding what you want.
LSI keywords help Google decide if the content will answer your question or solve your problem.
Cool, right?
So, using LSI keywords can help your webpage show up higher in search results because it is easier for Google to understand what your page is about!
What Will I Learn?
LSI keywords are important because they help Google understand your content better, which can help you rank higher in the SERPs.
Here’s what I mean:
LSI keywords within your content will boost its relevance for specific search queries.
More relevance = higher rankings.
But that’s not all…
By naturally incorporating your LSI keywords into your content, you will create better, more comprehensive content by default.
That’s why it’s a good idea to do LSI keyword research before you even start writing!
It will help you create a great outline that covers the content comprehensively. As a bonus, Google will reward you with higher rankings.
Who doesn’t want that, right?
Use these 4 tips to find LSI keywords:
Use keyword research tools to help you find LSI keywords.
My favourite tool is Ahrefs‘ keyword explorer tool. You can use the “Also rank for” report to find LSI keywords to add to your content.
Looking for a free option?
Try Google’s keyword planner. This is a free PPC tool provided by Google that provides keyword ideas.
The best part is that you get all the data about search volumes and competition directly from Google.
Google provides LSI keyword ideas right in the organic search results.
You just need to know where to look!
Here’s how it works:
Search for your target keyword in Google. At the bottom of Google search results, you’ll find related search queries in the “People also search for” section.
These are a list of terms people are actively searching for AND Google thinks are relevant to your primary target keyword.
Probably something you want in your content, right?
Use these strategically in your content and on your page to make sure you cover the topic comprehensively.
Here’s another free way to generate LSI keywords…
Start typing your main keyword in Google’s search bar, and look at the autocomplete suggestions:
Google Autocomplete suggests search phrases as you type, helping you quickly find what you’re looking for. The suggestions are based on algorithms that analyse popular search queries and user behaviour.
What does that really mean?
The predictions Autocomplete offers are highly related to the main keyword you are typing in. That makes it a goldmine for LSI keyword ideas!
Want to take your LSI keyword optimisation up a level?
Take advantage of NLP (natural language processing) tools like Surfer SEO and Frase. These are pro tools that make optimising your content a breeze.
My favourite is Surfer SEO. You simply provide your target keyword and add your content to the editor.
Surfer will then tell you precisely what LSI words you need to add to your content.
You get a score out of 100, so you know when your content is optimised correctly.
It doesn’t get much easier than that!
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