How to Do SEO Keyword Research: A Beginner’s Blueprint for More Website Traffic

If you want your website to attract more of the right visitors, keyword research is where it all begins. It’s the foundation of effective SEO — helping you understand what your audience is searching for and how to show up exactly when they need you.

But how do you actually do keyword research? Especially if you’re new to SEO, the process can feel overwhelming.

Don’t worry — this step-by-step guide simplifies everything. You’ll learn how to uncover the best keywords for your business, how to use them properly, and how to start ranking higher on Google — without wasting time on guesswork.

Why Keyword Research Matters

Every Google search starts with a word or phrase — a keyword. If your website includes the right keywords in the right places, you stand a better chance of being found by people actively looking for your product, service or expertise.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Over 90% of online content gets zero traffic from Google
  • Pages with targeted keywords get significantly more clicks and conversions
  • Effective keyword research can help you outrank competitors and attract qualified traffic

In other words, keywords connect you to your customers.

How to Do SEO Keyword Research in 7 Simple Steps

1. Start With Seed Keywords

Seed keywords are the core terms related to your business or service. Think about what someone might type into Google to find you.

If you’re a roofer in Derby, seed keywords could include:

  • roofer Derby
  • flat roof repairs
  • emergency roof leak

Start broad and build out from there.

2. Understand Search Intent

Not all keywords are equal. The key to effective SEO is understanding why someone is searching.

There are three main types of search intent:

  • Informational: “How to fix a leaky roof”
  • Navigational: “Checkatrade roofers”
  • Transactional: “Roof repairs Derby quote”

For local businesses, transactional and informational keywords are your sweet spot — they show strong buying intent.

3. Use Keyword Research Tools

Use free or low-cost keyword tools to expand your list and uncover real search data. These tools will help you discover:

  • Monthly search volume
  • Keyword difficulty
  • Related phrases
  • Question-based queries

Try tools like:

  • Google Keyword Planner
  • Ubersuggest
  • AnswerThePublic
  • Keywords Everywhere (browser extension)

Focus on UK-based results to ensure the data is relevant to your market.

4. Look at What Your Competitors Rank For

A quick way to fast-track your research is by checking what similar websites are ranking for.

Visit a competitor’s site, copy their URL into a keyword tool, and review the keywords they’re already ranking for. You’ll uncover plenty of ideas you may not have thought of.

This approach can also highlight gaps in their content that you can take advantage of.

5. Focus on Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases — like “best flat roof repair service in Derby” instead of just “roof repair”.

They typically:

  • Have lower competition
  • Are easier to rank for
  • Bring in more targeted traffic
  • Reflect real customer searches

Use them in blog posts, FAQs, and landing pages to capture niche audiences with intent to buy.

6. Organise and Group Your Keywords

Once you have a strong list, group them by topic or intent. This helps you create focused content and avoid overlapping keywords on different pages.

For example:
Service Page:

  • boiler installation Nottingham
  • new boiler quote Nottingham

Blog Post:

  • how much does a new boiler cost UK
  • signs you need a new boiler

Groupings like these ensure each page targets a specific goal — whether it’s informing, persuading, or converting.

7. Use Keywords Strategically (Not Excessively)

Once you’ve chosen the right keywords, don’t just sprinkle them randomly. Place them naturally in:

  • Page titles and headings
  • First 100 words
  • Meta titles and descriptions
  • Image alt tags
  • URL slugs
  • Internal links

Always write for humans first, search engines second. Keyword stuffing can harm your rankings and turn visitors away.

FAQs About Keyword Research

How many keywords should I target on one page?
Ideally 1–2 main keywords, with a few related terms. Don’t overload — keep it focused.

Can I just use popular keywords?
Not necessarily. Popular keywords often have high competition. It’s better to mix in long-tail, lower competition terms you can realistically rank for.

How often should I do keyword research?
Review your keywords every few months. Trends, competition, and customer needs change — so your content should evolve with them.

Do I need help from an expert?
If you’re short on time or struggling with strategy, partnering with an SEO company in Derbyshire can help. They’ll not only guide your keyword research but also implement it effectively across your website.

Work With an SEO Company in Derbyshire

Doing your own keyword research is a great start — but if you want faster results, expert guidance, or a full SEO strategy tailored to your business, a local partner can make a big difference.

A trusted SEO company in Derbyshire understands the local market, knows what your competitors are doing, and can uncover high-impact keywords specific to your region. Whether you’re a tradesperson, retailer, or service provider, this local insight helps you get discovered by customers right on your doorstep.

Conclusion

Keyword research is the secret sauce behind successful SEO. It’s how you align your content with what your ideal customers are already searching for. And it’s easier than you might think.

By following these seven steps, you’ll be well on your way to better rankings, more website traffic, and higher-quality leads. Start small, keep refining your strategy, and most importantly — take action.

The right keywords can change everything.