Types of SEO Keywords - 24 Major Types 

Guys, keywords are the words or phrases you type into Google when you want to find something. 

Whether it’s “best pizza in my town,” “how to make pizza,” or “pizza pics, these are all the keywords, basically. But here you can see that if you type pizza in your town, it will show you the results related to your area specific.

When you type how to make, the results will be changed; they will give you recipes and much more, and some for the pizza pics. So, it's clear that each keyword has a different type of intent, and other keywords are used for various purposes. 

Therefore, in this guide, we will cover different types of SEO keywords in detail. We will learn what they are, some examples, their pros and cons, and how to use them correctly.

So, let's dig in!

Types of SEO Keywords 

As you know, not all keywords are the same! Just like how different questions need different answers, different types of keywords help your website reach the right audience.

Here is the list of all the SEO keyword types: 

1. Primary Keywords
2. Secondary Keywords
3. Broad Keywords
4. Specific Keywords
5. Short-Tail Keywords
6. Mid-Tail Keywords
7. Long-Tail Keywords
8. LSI Keywords 
9. Synonym Keywords
10. Variant Keywords
11. Relevant Keywords 
12. Informational Keywords
13. Educational Keywords
14. Commercial Keywords
15. Transactional Keywords
16. Navigational Keywords
17. Branded Keywords
18. Competitor Keywords
19. Local Keywords
20. Global Keywords
21. Seasonal Keywords
22. Evergreen Keywords
23. Product Keywords
24. Unique Keywords 

Let us learn about these keywords in detail. 

1. Primary Keywords

Primary keywords are the main focus of your content and define its central topic. They are the most important keywords you want to rank for in search engines.

Intent

To address the main query or goal of the user. Primary keywords usually attract a general audience looking for broad information on a topic.

Example

• Keyword: "Advantages of Internet"

This keyword is broad and targets users searching for an overall understanding of the benefits of the internet.

Tips

• Use the primary keyword in the title, meta description, URL, and the first 100 words of your content.
• Mention the primary keyword naturally throughout the article but avoid overstuffing.

2. Secondary Keywords

Secondary keywords are supporting keywords related to the primary keyword. They expand on the main topic and help search engines understand your content’s context.

Intent

To provide additional details and address specific questions or subtopics related to the primary keyword. Secondary keywords often target niche audiences.

Example

• Primary Keyword: "Advantages of Internet"
• Secondary Keywords:
• "Advantages of internet for students"
• "Advantages of internet in business"
• "Advantages of internet in online education"

Tips

• Include secondary keywords in subheadings (H2 or H3) to organize content.
• Use them to create dedicated sections or paragraphs for detailed explanations.

3. Broad Keywords

Broad keywords are short and general terms that represent a wide category of content. These keywords are typically one or two words and can be very competitive because they cover a broad range of topics.

Intent

The intent behind broad keywords is often unclear or general. They are typically used at the top of the sales funnel, where users are looking for basic information, but don’t have a specific query or goal in mind.

Example

• Keyword: "Internet"

This is a broad keyword because it can refer to a variety of topics, such as internet services, internet safety, internet marketing, etc. It doesn’t specify exactly what aspect of the internet the user is interested in.

Tips

• Pair broad keywords with more specific or long-tail keywords to narrow down the search intent.
• After ranking with broad keywords, target more specific queries with secondary keywords.

4. Specific Keywords

Specific keywords are more focused and detailed than broad keywords. These keywords have a clear and defined intent, often targeting a particular product, service, or solution. They are typically longer and have lower search volume but higher relevance and intent.

Intent

The intent behind specific keywords is clear. Users searching for these keywords are often looking for a particular answer, product, or solution. These keywords target users further down the sales funnel who are ready to make a decision or take action.

Example

• Broad Keyword: "Internet"
• Specific Keyword: "Best internet provider for small businesses in New York"

This is a specific keyword because it targets a particular service (internet provider) and location (New York).

Tips

• Specific keywords often fall under the category of long-tail keywords, which can help you rank for more niche topics.
• Ensure that your content directly addresses the user's specific intent. For example, if someone searches for the "best guest blogging course," your content should directly tell the best course from your point of view, with no other specifications.

5. Short-Tail Keywords

Short-tail keywords are short, generic, and highly competitive keywords, typically consisting of one or two words. They are broad and don’t provide much detail, making them hard to rank for.

Intent

The intent behind short-tail keywords is frequently unclear, as users may be looking for general information but are not very specific in their search. 

Example

• Keyword: "Mobile Phone"

This keyword is broad, and users could be looking for any type of mobile phone, from basic models to high-end smartphones.

Tips

• Since short-tail keywords are very popular, competition is tight. Consider using them as a broad entry point and then refine it with more specific keywords.
• Use short-tail keywords to build traffic, but use long-tail keywords to convert visitors into customers.

6. Mid-Tail Keywords

Mid-tail keywords are more specific than short-tail keywords. They typically consist of 3 to 4 words and represent a more focused search intent than short-tail keywords, though they are still somewhat competitive.

Intent

The intent behind mid-tail keywords is more defined. Users know what they are looking for but might need additional information or are still in the research phase.

Example

• Keyword: "Best Android Mobile Phone"

This is a mid-tail keyword because it’s more specific than just “mobile phone” but still includes a broad category (Android mobile phones).

Tips

• Mid-tail keywords have lower competition, so they are somewhat easier to rank.
• Mid-tail keywords work well in blog posts, product comparisons, and reviews where users seek more specific information.

7. Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are highly specific phrases that usually contain more than four words. These keywords have lower search volume but higher intent, meaning they are less competitive and more likely to easily get ranked. 

Intent

The intent behind long-tail keywords is very clear. Users searching for these keywords usually look for specific products, services, or solutions and are often closer to purchasing or taking action.

Example

• Keyword: "iPhone 16 pro max in UK"

This is a long-tail keyword because it specifies a particular model (iPhone 16 pro) and a location (UK), indicating strong buying intent.

Tips

• Long-tail keywords tend to have higher conversion rates because of clear intent.
• Use long-tail keywords to create content that precisely matches the user's needs.

8. LSI Keywords (Latent Semantic Indexing)

LSI Keywords are terms and phrases related to your main keyword that help search engines understand the context of your content. They are not exact synonyms but are conceptually related and provide a broader understanding of your topic.

Intent

The intent behind LSI keywords is to help search engines better interpret the meaning of your content. These keywords strengthen the relevance of your primary keyword by providing additional context. 

Example

• Main Keyword: "Advantages of Internet"
• LSI Keywords: "Benefits of online learning," "internet safety tips," "digital marketing advantages," "internet in education"

These terms are related to "Advantages of Internet" but focus on specific aspects, helping search engines grasp the broader scope of the topic.

Tips

• Include LSI keywords naturally in your content without keyword stuffing.
• Use LSI keywords to address different angles of your primary keyword.

9. Synonym Keywords

Synonym keywords are words or phrases that have the same or very similar meaning as your primary keyword. These help diversify your content and prevent keyword repetition, making it more natural and engaging.

Intent

The intent behind synonym keywords is to avoid redundancy while still addressing the same core topic. They provide variations that keep the content fresh.

Example

• Main Keyword: "Advantages of Internet"
• Synonyms: "Benefits of the internet," "Pros of the internet," "Merits of the internet"

These synonyms convey the same idea as the main keyword but are phrased differently, offering more variety.

Tips

• Synonyms keywords keep your content keyword stuffed free. 
• People use different terms to search for the same topic, so using synonyms helps attract a broader audience.

10. Variant Keywords

Variant keywords are different forms or variations of your main keyword. These could include slight changes, such as singular/plural forms, different tenses, or regional spelling differences. 

Intent

The intent behind variant keywords is to capture a wider audience by covering various forms of a word or phrase that users might search for. They ensure your content can rank for different variations of the same core keyword.

Example

• Main Keyword: "Advantages of Internet"
• Variants: "Advantages of the internet," "Internet advantages," "Advantage of the internet"

These variations use different combinations of words to describe the same concept.

Tips

• Use variations of your main keyword to ensure your content remains natural and flows well.
• Don’t force keyword variants into the content. Use them where they make sense to ensure the content stays readable.

11. Relevant Keywords

Relevant keywords are terms and phrases that closely align with the content of your webpage and the intent of your target audience. These keywords ensure your content resonates with searchers' needs and improves its visibility for appropriate queries.

Intent
To connect your content with the searcher's query by addressing their specific needs, interests, or problems.

Example

• Keyword: "Best Running Shoes for Beginners"

This keyword is relevant for a webpage offering advice or products related to beginner-friendly running shoes.

Tips

• Choose keywords that match the central topic and purpose of your content.
• Use relevant keywords to answer users' questions and provide valuable information.

12. Informational Keywords

Informational keywords are terms that people use when they are looking for answers to questions or general information. They usually focus on the "what," "who," "where," or "why."

Intent

The intent behind informational keywords is to gather knowledge, explore new ideas, or answer specific questions. Users are not necessarily looking to make a purchase but are seeking useful information on a particular topic.

Example

• Keyword: "What is blogging?"
• Keyword: "How does Google Adsense work?"

These queries are informational because the user is searching for knowledge about blogging or a specific feature, like Google Adsense.

Tips

• Focus on providing in-depth, informative content that answers the user's question.
• Informational keywords are great for attracting organic traffic, especially if you're creating content that answers commonly asked questions.

13. Educational Keywords

Educational keywords are terms used by people looking for learning resources or want to improve their skills. These keywords are typically associated with online courses, tutorials, or step-by-step guides. Educational keywords often focus on the "how-to" aspect of learning.

Intent

Educational keywords aim to learn something new or improve an existing skill. Users may want to know how to do something or how to improve in a specific area.

Example

• Keyword: "How to start a vlog?"
• Keyword: "Best course for blogging"

These queries are educational because users are looking for specific resources or instructions on performing a task or developing a skill.

Tips

• Create content that provides step-by-step instructions or practical tips.
• Focus on delivering content that allows users to act immediately after reading it, like guides, tips, and practical resources.

14. Commercial Keywords

Commercial keywords indicate a potential purchasing intent, but users are still in the research phase. They aren't directly buying yet but comparing products or looking for services. 

Intent

Commercial keywords aim to explore options and evaluate different products or services before buying. These users typically compare features, prices, or reviews and want to gather more information before purchasing.

Example

• Keyword: "Best smartphones for photography"
• Keyword: "Top SEO services for small businesses"

These queries are commercial because the user is exploring options and seeking to understand which product or service will suit their needs best.

Tips

• Use commercial keywords to highlight the features and benefits of your products or services.
• Create comparison guides, review articles, or buyer’s guides that cater to these searches.

15. Transactional Keywords

Transactional keywords are used by people who are ready to make a purchase or complete an action. These terms are associated with finalizing a transaction, such as buying a product, signing up for a service, or making a booking.

Intent

The intent behind transactional keywords is clear: the user wants to complete a purchase or take immediate action. These are the most valuable types of keywords because they indicate the user is at the decision-making stage and ready to convert.

Example

• Keyword: "Buy iPhone 13 online"
• Keyword: "Sign up for SEO services"

These searches show the user’s intention to make a purchase or start a service, often including words like "buy," "order," "sign up," or "subscribe."

Tips

• Include strong CTAs like "Buy Now," "Get Started," or "Sign Up" to guide users toward completing a transaction.
• Adding urgency or exclusive deals can encourage users to convert.

16. Navigational Keywords

Navigational keywords are used when looking for a specific website or webpage. Instead of general searches, the user is looking for a particular brand, service, or platform. These keywords usually involve brand names or website names.

Intent

The intent behind navigational keywords is to find a specific location online. These are very direct searches, often involving known brands or sites.

Example

• Keyword: "Facebook login page"
• Keyword: "YouTube homepage"

These searches suggest that the user knows what they’re looking for and just wants to navigate directly to the site or page.

Tips

• Make sure your website is easily accessible by users who are searching for your specific brand or service.
• Use navigational keywords to optimize site navigation and ensure it’s easy for users to find specific pages.

17. Branded Keywords

Branded keywords are terms that include the name of a company, product, or service. Users searching for branded keywords are typically already familiar with the brand and want to learn more or make a purchase. These keywords include the brand name, product names, or even specific product lines.

Intent

The intent behind branded keywords is to target users who are specifically looking for a particular brand or product. These users are already aware of the brand.

Example

• Keyword: "Nike running shoes"
• Keyword: "Apple iPhone 13"

These searches indicate that the user is specifically looking for information or products from the Nike or Apple brand.

Tips

• Ensure your brand pages are optimized with relevant content and clear product information.
• Branded keywords work best with strong brand recognition, so focus on brand-building strategies.

18. Competitor Keywords

Competitor keywords are the keywords that your competitors rank for in search results, either organically or through paid ads (Google Ads). These are the keywords your competitors are targeting to reach their audience, and by analyzing these, you can find opportunities to improve your own search rankings or advertising strategies.

Intent

The intent behind competitor keywords is to understand the keywords your competitors are targeting to attract traffic. By targeting similar or related keywords, you can optimize your own content or ads to compete for the same audience.

Example

• Keyword: "Grammarly vs ProWritingAid" (for a competitor comparison between two grammar checkers)
• Keyword: "Best SEO tools for small businesses" (for competing in the SEO tool market)

Tips

• Use SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Ubersuggest to discover which keywords your competitors are ranking for.
• Identify keywords your competitors are not targeting and create high-quality content around those topics to fill in the gaps and gain traffic.

19. Local Keywords

Local keywords are search terms that include a specific geographic location. These keywords are used to attract local customers or people searching for businesses, products, or services in a particular area.

Intent

The intent behind local keywords is to reach people who are looking for services or products nearby. These are highly relevant for businesses with physical locations or those serving a specific region.

Example

• "Best pizza in New York City"
• "Affordable hair salon near me"
• "Car repair in Los Angeles"

Tips

• Include city names, neighborhoods, or regions in your keywords to help your content rank locally.
• Set up and optimize your Google My Business profile to show up in local searches.

20. Global Keywords

Global keywords are search terms that don’t specify a location and target a worldwide audience. These keywords are ideal for businesses or products accessed or purchased globally.

Intent

The intent behind global keywords is to reach a broad, international audience. They tend to be highly competitive since they can apply to anyone anywhere in the world.

Example

• "Best smartphones 2025"
• "Online courses for SEO"
• "Buy organic skincare"

Tips

• Use these keywords if your product or service is available to people everywhere.
• Global keywords often have more competition, so make sure your content is of the highest quality to stand out.

21. Seasonal Keywords

Seasonal keywords are search terms that are relevant only during a specific time of the year or a particular season. These keywords reflect events, holidays, or seasonal trends.

Intent

The intent behind seasonal keywords is to capitalize on trends that happen periodically. These keywords are often used to boost sales or website traffic during peak times, such as holidays or special events.

Example

• "Christmas gift ideas 2025"
• "Halloween costume trends"
• "Summer travel destinations"

Tips

• Research seasonal trends early to prepare content or products ahead of time.
• Promote special offers or sales that align with seasonal keywords to attract customers.

22. Evergreen Keywords

Evergreen keywords are terms that remain relevant and popular over time. These keywords don't follow seasonal trends and are applicable year-round. They typically target timeless topics or products.

Intent

The intent behind evergreen keywords is to attract consistent traffic all year long. Content optimized for evergreen keywords tends to perform well over the long term without needing constant updates.

Example

• "Advantages and Disadvantages of Mobile Phones for Students"
• "Best practices for time management"

Tips

• Evergreen content should be informative, well-written, and answer commonly asked questions.
• Evergreen keywords may take longer to rank, but they offer long-term traffic once they do.

23. Product Keywords

Product keywords are search terms for specific products or services users want to purchase or learn more about. These keywords are directly tied to users' commercial intent to buy or explore particular items.

Intent

The intent behind product keywords is transactional. Users often look to buy, compare, or learn more about products or services, making these keywords crucial for eCommerce websites or businesses with products to sell.

Example

• "iPhone 15"
• "Nike Air Max shoes"
• "Laptop for gaming"

Tips

• Use product keywords on your product pages to help them rank better in search results.
• Detail the features and benefits of your products to make them more attractive to potential buyers.

24. Unique Keywords

Unique keywords are distinct terms or phrases exclusive to your brand, product, or content. They set your website apart from competitors and help attract a specific target audience looking for niche or specialized offerings.

Intent

To differentiate your brand or content in search engine results and cater to users with specific needs or preferences.

Example

• Keyword: "Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40"

This keyword uniquely targets users searching for a specific Nike product, ensuring high relevance for those interested in this particular running shoe model.

Tips

• Use unique keywords that showcase your brand’s specialized products or services.
• Pair unique keywords with location-specific terms for targeting local audiences.

Keyword Factors to Consider

Guys, here are some of the major keyword factors that need to be considered before targeting them: 

1. Search Volume

The number of times a keyword is searched for on search engines.

Why it matters: Higher search volume means more potential visitors.

How to use: Target keywords with decent search volume that match your content.

2. Competition

The number of websites competing to rank for the same keyword.

Why it matters: High competition makes it harder to rank for a keyword.

How to use: Choose keywords with lower competition if you are just starting out.

3. Keyword Difficulty (KD)

Measures how difficult it is to rank for a keyword.

Why it matters: Higher difficulty means more resources needed to rank.

How to use: Use tools like Ahrefs to check keyword difficulty and opt for easier-to-rank keywords if you're new.

4. Trend

The pattern of a keyword's popularity over time.

Why it matters: Trending keywords bring short-term traffic but can fade.

How to use: Keep track of rising trends using Google Trends, but balance them with evergreen keywords.

5. Search Intent

The purpose behind a user’s search (to find, buy, learn, etc.).

Why it matters: Matching content to search intent helps with higher rankings.

How to use: Choose keywords that match your audience's intent—whether informational, transactional, etc.

6. Cost-per-Click (CPC)

How much advertisers pay for a click on a keyword in Google Ads.

Why it matters: High CPC indicates a strong commercial intent.

How to use: For PPC campaigns, target keywords with higher CPC to maximize ad spend.

Conclusion 

In this article, we’ve covered Types of SEO Keywords in detail. My personal advice is to always mix short-tail and long-tail keywords to create a balanced strategy that drives both traffic and conversions. 

Remember, aligning your keywords with user intent is the key to success. Let me know your thoughts, or share your own tips in the comments below; let’s learn from each other!

FAQs 

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions related to seo keywords: 

1. What is the difference between primary and secondary keywords?
Primary keywords show the main topic of your content, while secondary keywords support it. Secondary keywords are related terms that help explain or add details to your content. Using both makes your content stronger and more helpful for readers.

2. Why are long-tail keywords important for SEO?
Long-tail keywords are specific and less popular, so they’re easier to rank for. They bring in people who know exactly what they’re looking for. This can help you get more engaged visitors and better results.

3. How are synonyms different from LSI keywords?
Synonyms are words with similar meanings, like “advantages” and “benefits.” LSI keywords are related phrases, like “internet safety” for the keyword “internet.” Both help search engines understand your content better.

4. Should I use both short and long-tail keywords?
Yes, you should use both! Short-tail keywords bring general traffic, while long-tail keywords attract specific visitors. Using both helps you cover more search types.

5. Can I rank my content with just one keyword?
It’s hard to rank with only one keyword. Using related keywords and variations improves your chances. It helps search engines understand your content and makes it more useful for readers.