Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner is Google's free Search Term Research tool, originally developed for Google Ads but also used for SEO purposes. It provides detailed insights into search volume, competition intensity and keyword ideas for your SEO Concept.

Comparison Table: Keyword Tools

Differences between Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, SEMrush and Ubersuggest

Access to Google Keyword Planner

Requirements for Use

1. Google Ads Account - Creation of a free account required
2. Verified Email Address - Email address confirmation
3. Payment Method - Required even for free use (not charged)

First Steps

1. Visit ads.google.com
2. Create a Google Ads Account
3. Navigate to "Tools & Settings" → "Keyword Planner"
4. Choose "Discover new keywords" or "Get search volume and forecasts"

Main Functions of Keyword Planner

1. Discover Keyword Ideas

Functions:

• Automatic keyword suggestions based on seed keywords
• Related search terms and phrases
• Long-tail keyword discovery
• Competitor keyword analysis

2. Search Volume and Trends

3. Competition Analysis

Competition Levels:

• Low - Low competition, easier to rank
• Medium - Moderate competition, average effort
• High - Strong competition, high effort required

Practical Application for SEO

Keyword Research Workflow

1. Identify Seed Keywords

Sources for Seed Keywords:

• Team brainstorming
• Customer surveys
• Competitor websites
• Google Suggest
• Related search terms

2. Keyword Expansion

3. Search Intent Analysis

Advanced Functions

1. Geographic Targeting

Customization Options:

• Country-specific search volumes
• City-specific data
• Language-specific keywords
• Local search intent analysis

2. Seasonal Trends

Examples of seasonal keywords:

• Christmas gifts (Q4)
• Summer vacation (Q2-Q3)
• Tax consulting (Q1-Q2)
• Garden work (Q2-Q3)

3. Competitor Keyword Analysis

Limitations and Challenges

1. Data Availability

Limitations:

• Search volume only in ranges (e.g. 1K-10K)
• No historical data
• Limited keyword ideas
• Focus on paid advertising

2. Alternative Data Sources

Recommended combinations:

• Google Keyword Planner + Ahrefs
• Google Keyword Planner + SEMrush
• Google Keyword Planner + Ubersuggest
• Google Keyword Planner + AnswerThePublic

Best Practices for SEO

1. Keyword Clustering

2. Content Planning

3. Monitoring and Optimization

Important metrics:

• Keyword rankings
• Organic traffic
• Click-through rate (CTR)
• Conversion Quotient
• Bounce rate

Integration into SEO Workflow

1. Keyword Research Process

2. Tool Integration

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Misinterpreting Data

Common mistakes:

• Interpreting competition levels for SEO
• Treating search volume ranges as exact numbers
• Focusing only on high search volumes
• Ignoring seasonal trends

2. Incomplete Keyword Research

Future of Keyword Planner

1. AI Integration

Expected developments:

• Automatic keyword generation
• Intent-based grouping
• Predictive analytics
• Vocal Search integration

2. Voice Search Optimization

Voice search keywords:

• Question formulations
• Natural language
• Local search terms
• Conversational phrases

Conclusion

Google Keyword Planner remains an indispensable tool for keyword research, even though it was primarily developed for paid advertising. The combination with other SEO tools and the correct interpretation of data are crucial for success.

Related Topics

• Keyword Research Tools
• Ahrefs
• SEMrush
• Ubersuggest
• AnswerThePublic