How to Do Keyword Research for Free


Learn the ultimate guide on how to do keyword research for free and find the best keywords to grow your blog, website, or online business without spending a dime.

What is Keyword Research?

Keyword research is the process of identifying the search terms people use on Google and other search engines. These keywords help you create content that matches user intent and drives organic traffic.

Why it matters:

  • Helps you rank higher in search results

  • Increases website traffic

  • Guides content creation strategy

Learn more about keyword research basics to start effectively.

Free Tools to Do Keyword Research

You don’t need expensive tools to find profitable keywords. Here are some of the best free keyword research tools:

  1. Google Keyword Planner – Ideal for discovering search volume and trends.

  2. Ubersuggest – Shows keyword ideas, difficulty, and related terms.

  3. AnswerThePublic – Generates questions and long-tail keyword ideas.

  4. Google Trends – Helps you identify trending topics over time.

  5. Keyword Surfer – Chrome extension that shows keyword volume while browsing Google.

Check our full guide on best free keyword research tools for beginners.

Step-by-Step Guide to Keyword Research for Free

Follow these steps to find the right keywords without spending money:

  1. Brainstorm Seed Keywords
    Start with broad topics related to your niche. For example, if your blog is about fitness, seed keywords could be “home workouts” or “healthy diet.”

  2. Use Free Tools
    Enter seed keywords into tools like Ubersuggest or Google Keyword Planner to discover long-tail keywords and related phrases.

  3. Analyze Search Volume and Competition
    Focus on keywords with medium to high search volume but low competition to maximize your chances of ranking.

  4. Check User Intent
    Make sure the keyword matches what users are looking for: informational, transactional, or navigational.

  5. Compile a Keyword List
    Organize your keywords in a spreadsheet with columns for search volume, competition, and intent. This becomes your content roadmap.

For detailed steps, see our guide on free keyword research strategy.

Tips to Find Low-Competition Keywords for Free

  • Use Google’s “People also ask” and “Related searches” sections

  • Explore niche forums and communities for topic ideas

  • Use long-tail keywords (3+ words) for easier ranking

  • Leverage free SEO extensions like Keywords Everywhere or SEO Minion

Check out how to find low-competition keywords for free for more pro tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Free Keyword Research

  • Relying on a single tool

  • Ignoring search intent

  • Targeting overly competitive keywords

  • Not updating your keyword list regularly

Avoid these mistakes to ensure your free keyword research efforts pay off. Learn more at common keyword research mistakes.

Conclusion

Keyword research doesn’t have to be expensive. By using free tools, analyzing competition, and understanding user intent, you can build a strong SEO strategy that drives traffic and grows your online presence.

Start mastering the art of free keyword research today by visiting how to do keyword research for free.