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Keyword research is like unlocking a treasure map for SEO, and Ahrefs is the tool that guides you every step of the way.
You need to know how to use Ahrefs for keyword research in order to find rich keywords that are high volume and low competition.
Using the keyword explorer in Ahrefs, you can use a seed keyword to generate more keywords that you can filter for search volume, difficulty, and location.
This should be part of your general keyword research and strategy.
Whether you’re exploring ideas for a blog or diving into keyword research for affiliate marketing, Ahrefs helps you discover the right keywords to connect with your audience.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical steps to use Ahrefs effectively for keyword research, breaking it down into straightforward actions you can take today.
What Are Seed Keywords and How Can You Find Them?
Seed keywords are the starting point of keyword research.
Think of them as the foundation for building a house – they shape everything else.
For instance, if you’re blogging about healthy recipes, “meal prep” or “quick dinners” could be your seed keywords.
Ahrefs makes brainstorming simple:
- Use the Keywords Explorer to enter a broad idea like “meal prep.”
- Look at suggested terms under “Matching Terms” or “Questions.” These show related searches like “easy meal prep for beginners.”
As you collect ideas, imagine what your audience is searching for in their everyday life.
How to Analyze and Prioritize Keywords with Ahrefs
Once you’ve gathered keywords, the next step is figuring out which ones matter most.
Ahrefs gives you tools like:
- Keyword Difficulty (KD): Shows how hard it might be to rank for a keyword.
- Search Volume: Tells you how many people are searching for it monthly.
- Traffic Potential: Predicts the traffic a top-ranking page might get.
For example, if you’re tackling keyword research for affiliate marketing, compare keywords like “best hosting for affiliates” or “affiliate tools for beginners.”
Look for terms with decent traffic but manageable difficulty so you can start ranking sooner.
How Ahrefs Helps You Understand Your Competitors
One of Ahrefs’ standout features is its ability to uncover what’s working for your competitors.
With the Site Explorer, you can see the keywords their top pages rank for, what backlinks they’ve earned, and where they get traffic.
Imagine you run a fitness blog.
By analyzing a competitor’s website, you might find they rank well for “HIIT workout plans” but aren’t targeting “at-home HIIT exercises.”
This insight can inspire your content while filling a gap they’ve missed.
Turning Research into Action
Once you’ve got your keywords, put them to work.
Organize them into lists, like “how-to articles” or “product reviews,” using Ahrefs’ Lists feature.
Then, create content that fits your audience’s needs.
For example:
- Write a blog targeting “beginner meal prep ideas” with easy tips.
- Use secondary keywords like “meal prep for busy schedules” in subheadings.
- Answer questions people often search, like “How do I start meal prepping?”
When focusing on keyword research for affiliate marketing, craft content that helps readers solve problems.
Whether it’s finding the best programs or tools, let your research guide their journey.
Final Thoughts
Ahrefs helps you dig deeper into your niche, find meaningful keywords, and create content that truly serves your audience.
Remember, keyword research is about connecting with real people.
Every search tells a story, and your job is to meet them where they are.
By following these steps, you’re not just building traffic; you’re building trust.