Frequently Asked Questions
What is keyword difficulty?
Keyword difficulty is a metric that predicts how hard it would be to rank for a particular keyword in search engine results. It’s typically scored on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating more competition. This score is calculated based on the quality and quantity of backlinks pointing to the current top-ranking pages.
How is keyword difficulty calculated?
Keyword difficulty is calculated by analyzing the backlink profiles of pages currently ranking for that keyword. Factors considered include the number of referring domains, authority of linking domains, and overall link quality. Different tools may use slightly different algorithms, but they all focus on link-based competitiveness.
What’s a good keyword difficulty score to target?
For new websites, aim for keywords with difficulty scores between 0-30. Medium-sized sites can target 30-60, while established authoritative sites can compete for keywords with 60+ difficulty. Always consider your domain authority when choosing keywords to target.
Should I only target low difficulty keywords?
Not necessarily. While low difficulty keywords are easier to rank for, they often have lower search volume. A balanced strategy includes a mix of low, medium, and some high difficulty keywords that are highly relevant to your business and have good conversion potential.
How does keyword difficulty relate to search volume?
Generally, higher search volume keywords tend to have higher difficulty scores because more websites compete for them. However, this isn’t always the case. Some low competition keywords can have decent search volume, making them valuable “low-hanging fruit” opportunities.
Can I rank for high difficulty keywords with great content?
While high-quality content is essential, ranking for high difficulty keywords typically requires strong backlink support and domain authority. Great content alone may not be enough to outrank established competitors, but it’s a crucial foundation to build upon with other SEO strategies.
How often does keyword difficulty change?
Keyword difficulty can change as the competitive landscape evolves. Major algorithm updates or when new strong competitors enter the space can affect difficulty. It’s good practice to periodically check the difficulty of your target keywords.
Does keyword difficulty vary by country?
Yes, keyword difficulty can vary significantly by country or language. A keyword might be highly competitive in the US but relatively easy to rank for in another country. Always check difficulty scores for your specific target market.
How accurate are keyword difficulty scores?
Keyword difficulty scores are estimates based on available data. While they provide a good indication of competitiveness, they’re not perfect predictors. Other factors like content quality, user experience, and technical SEO also play significant roles in rankings.
Can I improve my chances for high difficulty keywords?
Yes, by building high-quality backlinks, improving your site’s technical SEO, creating comprehensive content that outperforms competitors, and establishing topical authority through a cluster of related content. It’s a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort.
