Types of Keywords in SEO 

Keywords are the foundation of SEO. If you want your website or blog to rank on Google, then you must understand the types of keywords in SEO and how to use them correctly.

In simple words, keywords are the search terms people type on Google to find information. When you use the right keywords in your content, your chances of ranking higher and attracting targeted visitors increase.

In this guide, you will learn the seo keyword definition, seo keyword meaning, the importance of keywords, and all major types of keywords used in SEO.

SEO Keyword Definition (What is a Keyword?)

Let’s first understand the seo keyword definition.

A keyword is a word or phrase that represents the main topic of a webpage. Search engines like Google use keywords to understand what your content is about and then show it to users who are searching for the same topic.

Examples of keywords:

• types of keywords
• seo words
• types of keywords in seo

That is why keywords are also called keywords.

SEO experts recommend using the right keywords in your title, headings, and content so that Google can easily match your page with user searches.

SEO Keyword Meaning

The seo keyword meaning is simple:
A keyword is a search term that connects users with your content.

For example, if someone searches “types of keywords in seo” and your blog is optimized for that keyword, your page has a higher chance of appearing in Google search results.

What Are Keywords in Digital Marketing?

Many beginners ask, what are keywords in digital marketing?

In digital marketing, keywords are used to attract the right audience through:

• SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
• Google Ads (PPC)
• Content Marketing
• YouTube SEO
• Affiliate Marketing

So, what is the keyword in digital marketing?
A keyword is the exact word or phrase that people search online, and marketers use those keywords to create content, ads, and campaigns.

If you are new to this field, it is important to first understand what digital marketing is, because SEO, keywords, and online traffic are all part of digital marketing strategies.

How Many Types of Keywords in SEO?

Now let’s answer the common question: how many types of keywords in SEO?

There are multiple ways to categorize keywords, but most SEO experts classify keywords into 8 to 10 main categories based on search intent, keyword length, and marketing purpose.

So, if someone asks how many types of keywords, the answer is that there are several types, and each type is used for a different SEO goal.

Types of Keywords in SEO

1. Short Tail Keywords: Short tail keywords are broad keywords that usually contain 1 or 2 words.

Example:

• SEO
• shoes
• marketing

Short tail keywords have:

• High search volume
• High competition
• Low conversion rate

They are harder to rank for beginners because many big websites already target them.

2. Long Tail Keywords: Long tail keywords are longer and more specific phrases (3 to 6 words).

Example:

• types of keywords in seo
• best SEO tools for beginners
• seo keyword definition

Long tail keywords have:

• Low competition
• High conversion rate
• Better ranking chances

This is why long tail keywords are best for beginners and bloggers.

3. Medium Tail Keywords: Medium tail keywords fall between short tail and long tail keywords.

Example:

• keyword research
• SEO keywords
• digital marketing course

To use these keywords correctly, you must understand what keyword research is, because keyword research helps you find high-volume and low-competition keywords that can rank faster.

4. Informational Keywords: Informational keywords are used when a user is searching for knowledge or learning something.

Example:

• seo keyword meaning
• importance of keywords
• what are keywords in digital marketing
• types of keywords

These keywords are best for blog posts, tutorials, and educational content.

5. Navigational Keywords: Navigational keywords are used when a user wants to visit a specific website or brand.

Example:

• YouTube login
• Facebook page
• Google keyword planner

These keywords show that the user already knows the platform they want to visit.

6. Transactional Keywords:

Transactional keywords are used when a user is ready to buy something or take action.

Example:

• buy SEO course online
• best laptop under 50000
• keyword tool subscription

These keywords are very valuable because they bring high-converting traffic and sales.

7. Commercial Investigation Keywords: Commercial investigation keywords are used when users compare products or services before purchasing.

Example:

• best SEO tools
• SEMrush vs Ahrefs
• top keyword research tools

These keywords are perfect for affiliate marketing blogs and product review articles.

8. Branded Keywords: Branded keywords include a brand name.

Example:

• Nike shoes
• Ahrefs keyword tool
• Google Ads

Branded keywords help businesses capture traffic from users who already trust a brand.

9. Non-Branded Keywords: Non-branded keywords do not include any brand name.

Example:

• best gym shoes
• SEO tips for beginners
• types of keywords

These keywords attract a wider audience and are useful for general SEO traffic.

10. Geo-Targeted Keywords (Local Keywords): Geo-targeted keywords include location-based search terms.

Example:

• SEO services in Delhi
• digital marketing course in Jaipur
• best restaurant near me

These keywords are best for local businesses and service providers who want local customers.

Importance of Keywords in SEO

Now let’s understand the importance of keywords.

Keywords play a major role in SEO because they help search engines understand your content and match it with user searches.

Why Are Keywords Important?

Helps Google understand your content
Improves website ranking
Brings targeted traffic
Increases leads and sales
Supports a strong content strategy

To fully understand keyword usage, it is also important to learn what is SEO, because SEO is the complete process of optimizing content using keywords, backlinks, and technical improvements.

How to Choose the Right Types of Keywords?

To build a strong SEO strategy, you should not rely on only one type of keyword. The best strategy is to use a mix of different types of keywords in SEO.

Best Keyword Mix for SEO: Long tail keywords (easy to rank)

Informational keywords (great for blogs)
Transactional keywords (best for sales)
Local keywords (for local traffic)
Short tail keywords (for visibility and branding)

SEO professionals always recommend targeting keywords based on search intent because intent-based keyword selection gives faster results.

Conclusion

Now you clearly understand the types of keywords, types of keywords in SEO, and the role of keywords in digital marketing.

If you want fast SEO results, focus on long tail and informational keywords. If your goal is sales or business growth, transactional and commercial keywords are more effective.

Keywords are the foundation of SEO success, and using the right keyword strategy can help you rank higher, attract the right audience, and grow your website faster.

Frequently Asked Questions