{"id":10854,"date":"2024-08-22T14:48:14","date_gmt":"2024-08-22T14:48:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/"},"modified":"2024-08-22T14:48:14","modified_gmt":"2024-08-22T14:48:14","slug":"keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/","title":{"rendered":"Keyword Mapping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better SEO"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you have a website, keyword mapping should be a priority.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Because it can help you get more visitors, leads, and conversions. <strong>Noticeably<\/strong> more.<\/p>\n<p>At Backlinko, keyword mapping helps us reach 500k+ organic sessions every month.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>In this step-by-step guide, you\u2019ll find everything you need to get started with keyword mapping.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, a free keyword mapping template.<\/p>\n<p>But first, let\u2019s start with the basics.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#What_Is_Keyword_Mapping\" >What Is Keyword Mapping?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Benefits_of_Keyword_Mapping\" >Benefits of Keyword Mapping<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#How_to_Do_Keyword_Mapping_in_5_Steps\" >How to Do Keyword Mapping in 5 Steps<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#1_Download_Our_Free_Keyword_Mapping_Template\" >1. Download Our Free Keyword Mapping Template<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#2_Find_Keywords_for_Mapping\" >2. Find Keywords for Mapping<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Pillar_Page_Keywords\" >Pillar Page Keywords<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Cluster_Topic_Keywords\" >Cluster Topic Keywords<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Keyword_Variations\" >Keyword Variations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#3_Add_the_Keywords_to_Your_Map\" >3. Add the Keywords to Your Map<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#4_Match_Keywords_to_Pages\" >4. Match Keywords to Pages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#5_Use_Your_Keyword_Map_to_Optimize_Website_Pages\" >5. Use Your Keyword Map to Optimize Website Pages<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#SEO_Tools_for_Keyword_Mapping\" >SEO Tools for Keyword Mapping<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Free_Keyword_Mapping_Tools\" >Free Keyword Mapping Tools<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Paid_Keyword_Mapping_Tools\" >Paid Keyword Mapping Tools<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Semrush\" >Semrush<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Ahrefs\" >Ahrefs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Surfers_Topic_Explorer\" >Surfer\u2019s Topic Explorer<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/08\/22\/keyword-mapping-a-step-by-step-guide-to-better-seo\/#Getting_Started_with_Keyword_Mapping\" >Getting Started with Keyword Mapping<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Keyword_Mapping\"><\/span>What Is Keyword Mapping?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Keyword mapping is the process of organizing target keywords into groups and assigning them to specific pages on your website.<\/p>\n<p>And creating a detailed keyword map to keep track of important details. Including keyword volume, difficulty, and more.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Why not just scribble it all down on a napkin?<\/p>\n<p>Creating a detailed keyword map ensures you have a permanent, organized document to guide your SEO strategy. Which helps keep you consistent in your optimization efforts.<\/p>\n<p>And gives your website content a serious advantage on search engine results pages (SERPs).<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_Keyword_Mapping\"><\/span>Benefits of Keyword Mapping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Not sure keyword mapping is worth the effort? Here\u2019s a look at the benefits it can provide:<\/p>\n<p>Improves the site experience for visitors and search engines<br \/>\nReduces bounce rates<br \/>\nCreates a path for search engines to follow<br \/>\nBuilds a strong internal linking system<br \/>\nHelps avoid <a title=\"Keyword Cannibalization: Why Avoid It and How to Fix It\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/keyword-cannibalization\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword cannibalization<\/a><br \/>\nIdentifies keyword gaps<\/p>\n<p>At Backlinko, we use keyword mapping to avoid cannibalization and ensure a strong internal link network. This allows our users to easily find information on any core topic.<\/p>\n<p>Keyword mapping helps us think strategically about our ideal customers and how to design our website to best meet their needs.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><a title=\"LinkedIn \u2013 Leigh McKenzie\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lmckenzie16\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Leigh McKenzie<\/a>, head of SEO at Backlinko, said:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p>We start the keyword mapping process with a content strategy that targets our ideal customer profiles (ICPs) and covers our main content pillars: SEO, Content Marketing, Link Building, and Digital Marketing more broadly.<\/p>\n<p>Since the SEO industry is constantly changing with new techniques, tactics, and terminology, we first evaluate our existing content library to ensure everything is still relevant and accurate.<\/p>\n<p>Then, we do new keyword research (based on audience intelligence or competitor analysis) to identify new article topics. <\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Do_Keyword_Mapping_in_5_Steps\"><\/span>How to Do Keyword Mapping in 5 Steps<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Download_Our_Free_Keyword_Mapping_Template\"><\/span>1. Download Our Free Keyword Mapping Template<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Ready to learn how to create a keyword map? Download our free keyword mapping template to follow along with our step-by-step tutorial below.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Download now:<\/strong> <a title=\"Keyword Mapping Template\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1wwCw5AY9HuUh-G6RLwQfRqm2Y1GrqAG5-vgrIF-TQ7w\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Mapping Template<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve downloaded the template, rename it in the upper left.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Here\u2019s a peek at some of the terminology and columns in the template:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pillar pages:<\/strong> A list of your site\u2019s pillar page keywords<br \/>\n<strong>Cluster topics:<\/strong> A list of subtopic keywords<br \/>\n<strong>Volume:<\/strong> The average monthly searches for each primary keyword<br \/>\n<strong>KD (keyword difficulty) score:<\/strong> The estimated difficulty level of each primary keyword<br \/>\n<strong>Keyword variations:<\/strong> Groups of keywords you can use as secondary keywords<br \/>\n<strong>Total volume:<\/strong> The combined potential traffic of primary keywords and keyword variations<br \/>\n<strong>Target URL:<\/strong> The site page you assign to each group of keywords<br \/>\n<strong>Status:<\/strong> A drop-down selection that indicates the page\u2019s status<br \/>\n<strong>Last updated:<\/strong> A record of the last time you optimized the page for its current keywords<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> The \u201cPillar Pages\u201d and \u201cCluster Topics\u201d columns represent <strong>primary keywords<\/strong>. The \u201cKeyword Variations\u201d column represents <strong>secondary keywords<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Find_Keywords_for_Mapping\"><\/span>2. Find Keywords for Mapping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before using the keyword mapping template, you\u2019ll need to create three keyword lists:<\/p>\n<p>Pillar page keywords<br \/>\nCluster topic keywords<br \/>\nKeyword variations<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Side note:<\/strong> Already have these keyword lists for your site? Jump to <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/blog#add-keywords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">step 3<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Start by choosing one of your blog\u2019s main topics.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if your blog\u2019s niche is gardening, you might choose a main topic like \u201cgardening tools\u201d or \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Got it?<\/p>\n<p>Now you\u2019re ready to dive into <a title=\"Keyword Research for SEO: The Definitive Guide + Template\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/keyword-research\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword research<\/a> and build your lists.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pillar_Page_Keywords\"><\/span>Pillar Page Keywords<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Pillar page keywords represent your site\u2019s main topics. You\u2019ll assign them to your site\u2019s pillar pages.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> <a title=\"Pillar Pages: How to Create One + Examples\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/pillar-pages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pillar pages<\/a> are in-depth articles or ultimate guides. Cluster posts are subtopics that support a pillar page. Linking a group of pillar and cluster posts to each other creates a \u201ctopic cluster\u201d that can boost your site\u2019s topical authority.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Use a keyword research tool like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Keyword Generator by Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmagic\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Magic<\/a> or Google Keyword Planner to identify keywords that match your site\u2019s main topic.<\/p>\n<p>For this example, we used the Keyword Magic Tool.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> A free Semrush account gives you 10 searches in the Keyword Magic Tool per day. Or you can use this link to access a <a title=\"Backlinko &amp; Semrush: 14-day PRO Trial\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/backlinko-offer\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Enter your main site topic into the search bar and click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d We used \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Enter your site\u2019s URL into the purple search bar for personalized data (including a keyword difficulty score tailored to your domain).<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Scroll down to view the results.<\/p>\n<p>Then, select the keyword you think is the best match for your pillar page topic.<\/p>\n<p>Our \u201cgardening tips\u201d search turned up keywords like \u201cbeginner gardening tips\u201d and \u201cvegetable gardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>These might make great cluster topic keywords. Or they might work for a different pillar page down the road.<\/p>\n<p>But they\u2019re not as great for a pillar page on \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Because we want a keyword that describes our main topic perfectly.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re in luck.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s an exact match, \u201cgardening tips,\u201d at the top of the keyword results page.<\/p>\n<p>The estimated monthly search volume is 1,600, which is a good amount of traffic.<\/p>\n<p>The <a title=\"Keyword Difficulty: Understanding and Assessing It\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/keyword-difficulty\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword difficulty<\/a> score is rated as \u201cdifficult,\u201d meaning we\u2019ll need many referring domains and optimized content to help this page rank. For our example site, this is attainable.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Have a newer or less authoritative site? Look for keywords with lower keyword difficulty scores to help increase your chances of ranking.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Next, we\u2019ll check the keyword\u2019s <a title=\"Search Intent and SEO: A Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search intent<\/a>. Search intent, sometimes called \u201cuser intent,\u201d is the reason behind a person\u2019s search.<\/p>\n<p>And it\u2019s a big deal in keyword mapping.<\/p>\n<p>Matching keywords with the correct search intent makes it easier for Google to index your pages correctly.<\/p>\n<p>Which can ultimately result in more traffic to your website. It also helps searchers find the type of content they\u2019re looking for, reducing bounce rate.<\/p>\n<p>The most common types of search intent are:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Informational:<\/strong> The searcher is looking for information on a topic. Like \u201cgardening tips\u201d or \u201chow to start a rose garden.\u201d<br \/>\n<strong>Navigational:<\/strong> The searcher is looking for a specific website. Such as \u201cMyGardeningTips\u201d or \u201cAmazon.\u201d<br \/>\n<strong>Commercial:<\/strong> The searcher is checking out products or services. For example, \u201cgardening tools under $10.\u201d<br \/>\n<strong>Transactional:<\/strong> The searcher is actively looking to make a purchase. Like \u201cbuy gardening gloves.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Check the \u201c<strong>Intent<\/strong>\u201d column next to the keyword in the Keyword Magic Tool.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>\u201cI\u201d indicates \u201cinformational\u201d search intent, \u201cC\u201d indicates \u201ccommercial,\u201d and so on.<\/p>\n<p>Our \u201cgardening tips\u201d keyword has both an \u201cinformational\u201d and \u201ccommercial\u201d intent. But what\u2019s most important is the \u201cinformational\u201d intent.<\/p>\n<p>Since we\u2019re creating an ultimate guide, this intent works well. Informational blog content like how-to guides, tips, and listicles is almost always a good match for \u201cinformational\u201d search intent.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> You can manually verify search intent by analyzing the SERP results for your keyword. For instance, searching \u2018gardening tips\u2019 primarily returns informational articles and guides, confirming its informational intent. <\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve decided on your keyword, save it to a keyword list in Semrush.<\/p>\n<p>Check the box next to the keyword(s) you want to save. Click \u201c<strong>+ Add to list<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Click \u201c<strong>Create new empty list<\/strong>\u201d and give your keyword list a name. We named ours \u201cPillar page keywords.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Repeat this process for the other two lists you\u2019ll build next (\u201cKeyword variations\u201d and \u201cCluster topic keywords).<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cluster_Topic_Keywords\"><\/span>Cluster Topic Keywords<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Cluster topic keywords represent subtopics of your pillar pages. Each cluster topic page you create will link to its main pillar page. And the pillar page will link back to the cluster.<\/p>\n<p>This creates a strong, topic-driven internal linking strategy.<\/p>\n<p>You can find popular subtopic ideas using your initial keyword research.<\/p>\n<p>For example, our main keyword was \u201cgardening tips.\u201d Which turned up a handful of great subtopic ideas.<\/p>\n<p>Like \u201craised bed gardening tips\u201d and \u201cspring gardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><a title=\"Long Tail Keywords: How to Find &amp; Use Them Effectively\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/long-tail-keywords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Long-tail keywords<\/a>, like the two above, work well for cluster posts.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Because long-tail keywords are highly specific terms that tend to have lower keyword difficulty scores.<\/p>\n<p>Add the subtopic keywords to your \u201cCluster topic keywords\u201d lists in Keyword Magic.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keyword_Variations\"><\/span>Keyword Variations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Keyword variations are phrases that have similar meanings to the original keyword.<\/p>\n<p>Including different keyword variations increases the chances of capturing a wider audience who might phrase their searches differently.<\/p>\n<p>It can also improve your website\u2019s visibility on SERPs by covering more search queries and increasing your chances of ranking for related terms.<\/p>\n<p>Find keyword variations by looking at your search results in Keyword Magic Tool.<\/p>\n<p>For example, \u201ctips on gardening,\u201d \u201cgardening tips and tricks,\u201d and \u201ctips for gardening\u201d appeared in our original search for \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Add the variations to your \u201cKeyword variations\u201d list.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Add_the_Keywords_to_Your_Map\"><\/span>3. Add the Keywords to Your Map<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you haven\u2019t already, download our free <a title=\"Keyword Mapping Template\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1JcR5TAiI8DiOrLzhnGg9v-40ojZJqf0ZsTkFyQnoUxQ\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword mapping template<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Now, open your keyword mapping template and add your pillar page keywords to column \u201cA.\u201d Add monthly search volumes to column \u201cC\u201d and KD scores to column \u201cD.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>When you\u2019re finished, it should look like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Next, enter your cluster topic keywords in column \u201cB,\u201d alongside their volume in column \u201cC\u201d and KD scores in column \u201cD.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Next, add your keyword variations to the map. Enter these in column \u201cE\u201d as a group.<\/p>\n<p>Add search volume in parentheses behind each keyword.<\/p>\n<p>Like this: \u201ctips on gardening (210), gardening tips and tricks (170).\u201d<\/p>\n<p>No KD% score needed.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what it looks like in the keyword map:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Next, get out your calculator to tally up the total search volume for each row.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Recording the total search volume provides a comprehensive view of potential traffic, helping you prioritize high-impact content. This strategy also ensures you focus on keywords that drive the most value, enhancing your SEO efforts.<\/p>\n<p>And maximizing your <a title=\"What Is Search Engine Visibility? And How to Increase It\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/visibility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">website\u2019s visibility<\/a> and engagement.<\/p>\n<p>For each row:<\/p>\n<p>Add the primary keyword Volume (column C) + the total volume of all Keyword Variations (column E).<br \/>\nRecord your answer in Column F, \u201cTotal Volume.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>For our example, our Total Volume for this row is 2,150<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Match_Keywords_to_Pages\"><\/span>4. Match Keywords to Pages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In this step, we\u2019ll match each row of keywords to an existing or future page on your site.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s start with the first row.<\/p>\n<p>In this example, the first row contains the primary keyword \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>If you already have a published piece of content that matches the primary keyword, add its URL to column \u201cG.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Don\u2019t you have a piece of content that matches the primary keyword? Leave column \u201cG\u201d blank.<\/p>\n<p>Next, move to column \u201cH\u201d and select a status from the drop-down menu.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Which status should you choose?<\/p>\n<p><strong>To Create:<\/strong> If you haven\u2019t published content for the primary keyword yet<br \/>\n<strong>To Optimize:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve published content for this topic but haven\u2019t fully optimized it for the primary and secondary keywords in this map<br \/>\n<strong>Updated:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve published content for this keyword AND it is fully updated according to the primary and secondary keywords in this map<\/p>\n<p>The next and final step is column \u201cI,\u201d \u201cLast Updated.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>This column only applies if you have an active URL entered in column \u201cG.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Otherwise, leave it blank.<\/p>\n<p>Use this space to note when you last optimized this post for the keywords in your map. If you haven\u2019t optimized or created it yet, leave it blank.<\/p>\n<p>Repeat the process for each row in the template.<\/p>\n<p>It should look something like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Congrats! You\u2019ve just completed your keyword map.<\/p>\n<p>Now what?<\/p>\n<p>Use your completed keyword map to <a title=\"SEO Marketing Hub 2.0 \u2013 Content Optimization Strategies\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/optimizing-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">optimize website content<\/a> and plan new content.<\/p>\n<p>We will show you how in the final step below.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Use_Your_Keyword_Map_to_Optimize_Website_Pages\"><\/span>5. Use Your Keyword Map to Optimize Website Pages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Start with your existing site pages, if you have any.<\/p>\n<p>For example, let\u2019s say you already have a pillar page called \u201cThe Ultimate Guide to Gardening Tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Its keywords are:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Primary keyword:<\/strong> Gardening Tips<br \/>\n<strong>Keyword variations:<\/strong> tips on gardening, gardening tips and tricks, tips for gardening<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>To optimize the pillar page so it aligns with your keyword map, use the primary keyword in your:<\/p>\n<p>Title tag<br \/>\n<a title=\"How to Write SEO-Friendly Meta Descriptions\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/meta-descriptions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meta description<\/a><br \/>\nIntroduction (first 100 words)<br \/>\nSubheaders when relevant<br \/>\nThroughout the text, naturally<br \/>\nImage alt text, when appropriate<\/p>\n<p>Add each of the <a title=\"10 Types of Keywords with Examples (+ How to Find Them)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/types-of-keywords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">secondary keywords<\/a> (keyword variations) at least once within the blog post.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Apply the same techniques when creating new pillar pages and cluster posts.<\/p>\n<p>Update the \u201cStatus\u201d and \u201cLast Updated\u201d columns in your keyword mapping template each time you optimize or create another page.<\/p>\n<p>Your completed map also shows where you have <a title=\"Content Gap Analysis: The Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/content-gap\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content gaps<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Any row without an existing \u201cTarget URL\u201d in column G is a gap you\u2019ll want to fill with new content.<\/p>\n<p>Your new keyword map will help you plan what content to add or update next. And ensure that you don\u2019t miss out on or duplicate any site keywords.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"On-Page SEO: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/on-page-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">On-Page SEO: The Definitive Guide<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"media\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SEO_Tools_for_Keyword_Mapping\"><\/span>SEO Tools for Keyword Mapping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Free_Keyword_Mapping_Tools\"><\/span>Free Keyword Mapping Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Some of the most popular free keyword mapping tools include:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Google Keyword Planner:<\/strong> For initial keyword research and discovery<br \/>\n<strong>Semrush\u2019s keyword tools:<\/strong> For identifying pillar and cluster keywords (search up to 10 terms per day for free in Keyword Magic Tool and Keyword Overview)<br \/>\n<strong>Ahrefs Keyword Difficulty Checker:<\/strong> Another great option for finding keywords<br \/>\n<strong>Google Search:<\/strong> For brainstorming topic and subtopic ideas<\/p>\n<p>For example, Google Keyword Planner is free to use. It can help you find new topic ideas related to your main keyword.<\/p>\n<p>Go to: \u201c<strong>Google Ads<\/strong>\u201d &gt; \u201c<strong>Solutions<\/strong>\u201d &gt; \u201c<strong>Keyword Planner<\/strong>\u201d and enter a keyword. Then, click \u201c<strong>Get Results<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Like we did with \u201cgardening tips.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Our gardening tips keyword produced new subtopics we hadn\u2019t thought of before.<\/p>\n<p>Like \u201cbackyard decor ideas,\u201d \u201ccomposting tips,\u201d and \u201ccheap container gardening ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>While this can be a great way to research new terms, Google only shows a range for monthly search volume\u2014unless you\u2019re actively using Google Ads and hitting an undisclosed monthly spending requirement.<\/p>\n<p>If you find keywords with potential, drop them into the <a title=\"Keyword Overview: Discover New Ideas with Keyword Explorer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordoverview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Overview<\/a> to see a more precise estimation.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paid_Keyword_Mapping_Tools\"><\/span>Paid Keyword Mapping Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Need more in-depth insights?<\/p>\n<p>A paid <a title=\"41 Best SEO Tools (Free &amp; Paid)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-free-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO tool<\/a> like Semrush, Ahrefs, or Surfer SEO may be worth the investment.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Semrush\"><\/span>Semrush<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>While many of Semrush\u2019s tools have free, limited access, a paid subscription offers even more features and tools.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Keyword Strategy Builder: In-Depth Keyword Analysis\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmanager\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Strategy Builder<\/a> tool simplifies and automates the keyword mapping process.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n<p>Enter your site\u2019s main keyword and click \u201c<strong>Create list<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Like we did here with the \u201cgardening tips\u201d keyword.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>When your report is ready, you\u2019ll have a full, customized strategy built around your keyword. Including a list of suggested pillar page and cluster topic keywords.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>For the keyword \u201cgardening tips,\u201d it gave us ideas like \u201cvegetable gardening\u201d and \u201crose plant\u201d as pillar pages.<\/p>\n<p>And suggested cluster topics such as \u201cHanging basket flowers\u201d and \u201cwater hose.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Earlier, we were thinking that the keyword \u201cvegetable gardening\u201d would make a good cluster topic keyword. But this strategy suggests using the keyword for a pillar page.<\/p>\n<p>And that\u2019s not a bad idea. So, we\u2019ll give it some thought.<\/p>\n<p>Scroll down the page for even more pillar and cluster keyword suggestions.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ahrefs\"><\/span>Ahrefs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"Ahrefs: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ahrefs-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ahrefs<\/a> is a comprehensive suite of SEO tools that can help you with keyword mapping.<\/p>\n<p>For example, drop a keyword into its Keywords Explorer tool, and it\u2019ll generate thousands of ideas. It\u2019ll also automatically cluster keywords, helping speed up your keyword mapping efforts.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Surfers_Topic_Explorer\"><\/span>Surfer\u2019s Topic Explorer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><a title=\"Surfer SEO Review: Features, Pricing and More\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/surfer-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Surfer SEO<\/a>\u2019s Topic Explorer helps you analyze site topics and provides suggestions for supporting cluster pieces. It can also show you what topic clusters your competition covers.<\/p>\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p>Enter a keyword, and the tool will generate a map with subtopics. We entered \u201cgardening tips,\u201d and it suggested additional pillar page ideas (called Topics), such as \u201cHome Gardening\u201d and \u201cPlanting Guide.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It also provides keyword ideas, along with the keyword difficulty and search volume for each term.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_Started_with_Keyword_Mapping\"><\/span>Getting Started with Keyword Mapping<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Keyword mapping is one of the smartest SEO moves you can make.<\/p>\n<p>It helps you think strategically about every topic, keyword, and page on your site. Boosting rankings and the user experience in the process.<\/p>\n<p>But keyword mapping is just the start.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll need a comprehensive SEO strategy to drive year-round organic traffic.<\/p>\n<p>In our <a title=\"How to Create an Effective SEO Strategy\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO Strategy Guide<\/a>, learn how to analyze SERP results and create content that outranks your competitors.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/keyword-mapping\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Mapping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better SEO<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you have a website, keyword mapping should be a priority. Why? Because it can help you get more visitors, leads, and conversions. Noticeably more. At Backlinko, keyword mapping helps us reach 500k+ organic sessions every month. In this step-by-step guide, you\u2019ll find everything you need to get started with keyword mapping. Plus, a free keyword mapping template. But first, let\u2019s start with the basics. What Is Keyword Mapping? Keyword mapping is the process of organizing target keywords into groups and assigning them to specific pages [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":10855,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10854","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/analytics-backlinko-organic-search-june-2024-Ztic2V-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/analytics-backlinko-organic-search-june-2024-Ztic2V-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10854","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10854"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10854\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10855"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10854"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10854"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10854"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}