Learn how to use Google Keyword Planner to find profitable keywords for SEO and PPC. Discover step-by-step instructions, advanced filtering techniques, and strategies to maximize your search campaigns.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Google Keyword Planner is a powerful tool for finding keywords, estimating search volume, and analyzing competition. Whether you’re optimizing content for SEO or running PPC ads, Keyword Planner helps you choose the best keywords to drive traffic and conversions. This guide will walk you through using Google Keyword Planner effectively.

Step 1: Accessing Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner is free to use with a Google Ads account. To access it:

Go to Google Ads (ads.google.com) and sign in.
Click on Tools and Settings (wrench icon) in the top menu.
Select Keyword Planner under the “Planning” section.

Step 2: Finding New Keywords

Google Keyword Planner offers two options:

Discover New Keywords: Generates keyword ideas based on a topic, website, or product.
Get Search Volume and Forecasts: Provides search data for a list of keywords you already have.

How to Generate Keyword Ideas:

Click Discover New Keywords.
Enter a seed keyword (e.g., “SEO tools” or “best keyword research software”).
Add filters like location, language, and search networks (Google or Google & partners).
Click Get Results to see keyword suggestions.

Step 3: Analyzing Keyword Data

Keyword Planner provides the following metrics:

Avg. Monthly Searches: The estimated number of searches per month.
Competition Level: Low, Medium, or High based on advertiser demand.
Top of Page Bid (Low/High): The estimated CPC range for Google Ads.

Step 4: Filtering and Refining Keywords

To find the best keywords, use filters such as:

Competition: Focus on Low or Medium for SEO.
Search Volume: Target keywords with at least 500-1,000 monthly searches.
Keyword Intent: Identify transactional or informational keywords.
Exclude Branded Terms: Filter out competitor brand names.

Step 5: Exporting and Organizing Keyword Lists

Select relevant keywords from the list.
Click Download Keyword Ideas to export data as a CSV file.
Use Excel or Google Sheets to organize and analyze keywords.

Step 6: Using Keywords for SEO and PPC

For SEO:

Use high-search, low-competition keywords in blog posts, headings, and meta descriptions.
Optimize content around long-tail keywords for easier rankings.

For PPC:

Choose keywords with high commercial intent.
Adjust bids based on CPC estimates.
Use negative keywords to prevent irrelevant clicks.

Conclusion

Google Keyword Planner is an essential tool for discovering profitable keywords, whether for organic search or paid campaigns. By understanding keyword search volume, competition, and intent, you can refine your SEO and PPC strategy for maximum results.

Primary Keywords: Google Keyword Planner, keyword research, PPC keywords, SEO keywords

LSI Keywords: search volume, CPC estimates, keyword competition, keyword analysis, Google Ads

How to Use Google Keyword Planner for SEO and PPC Campaigns