If you’re new to SEO content writing, keyword integration may seem quite challenging. The keywords you’re asked to use may be unfamiliar, and you may struggle to use them in a way that doesn’t feel awkward.
However, it’s vital that you learn how to use keywords if you want to have a future in SEO. Here are five tips for using keywords more effectively.
1. Write with the Keywords in Mind
A number of writers just hammer out a copy without even thinking about the keywords they’ve been assigned. They wait until the copy is almost done before starting to work them in. No wonder the keywords sound awkward.
It’s much more effective to look at the keywords before you start writing. That way, the keywords are part of your creative process, rather than an afterthought. This gives you the chance to think about how you can use the keywords organically at different places in your copy.
2. Brainstorm
If you really struggle with keywords, you may benefit from a little brainstorming. Before starting your copy, list a few ways you could use the keywords in your post.
If you’re using the keyword “addiction rehab center,” for example, you could use the following phrases:
1) Furniture in an addiction rehab center
2) Outdoor space for an addiction rehab center
3) Addiction rehab center recreation hour
4) Family members in an addiction rehab center, etc.
Don’t be intimidated by location-specific keywords, like “Pennsylvania addiction rehab center” or “12 Palms addiction rehab center.” The same basic principle applies.
3. Read Some Examples
Keywords are everywhere in online writing, but you only notice them when the writing is bad. If you haven’t written for the web before, read some online newspapers, blogs, or other publications. Remember: the best writers are also the best readers.
4. Be Innovative
The copy you write doesn’t have to have anything to do with your keywords. All you need is a little practice and creativity. After you’ve read a lot of online content, you’ll start to notice how good writers use their keywords. You’ll learn that the best writers can successfully work the keyword “car parts San Diego” into a post about Native American tribes. Here’s one example of how to do so:
It’s difficult for many of us to appreciate the challenges of Native American life. We get frustrated when the automotive store closes on Sunday and we can’t get our car parts. San Diego in the 21st century is convenient and relatively carefree.
Before you use this type of keyword integration, make sure it’s ok to add the punctuation. Generally, it is, but it’s better to err on the side of caution.
5. Read What You’ve Written
As a final step, make sure to read what you’ve written. If your keywords stand out, you may want to consider reworking them.