Short tail and long tail keywords are terms commonly used in the field of search engine optimization (SEO) to describe different types of search queries.
- Short Tail Keywords: These are typically short, generic, and broad search terms consisting of one or two words. These keywords have a high search volume and are highly competitive. Examples include “shoes,” “digital marketing,” or “travel destinations.” While short tail keywords have the potential to generate a lot of traffic, they often lack specificity and may not lead to high conversion rates.
- Long Tail Keywords: These are longer and more specific search queries consisting of three or more words. They tend to have lower search volume but are more targeted and have a higher chance of converting into sales or engagements. Long tail keywords are typically more descriptive and reflect the intent of the searcher. Examples include “best running shoes for marathon training,” “digital marketing strategies for small businesses,” or “family-friendly vacation spots in Europe.” These keywords may have less competition and are often more effective in reaching a specific audience.
The choice between using both keywords depends on your goals and target audience. Short tail keywords are more suitable for generating high traffic and brand exposure, while long tail keywords are better for targeting specific niches and attracting highly relevant traffic. In general, a balanced keyword strategy that incorporates both short tail and long tail keywords can help improve your website’s visibility and attract the right audience.
Some Free Tools to find Short and Long tail keywords:
Ubersuggest: Ubersuggest is a user-friendly keyword research tool that offers keyword ideas, search volume, and keyword difficulty metrics. It also provides data on related keywords and content ideas.
Google Keyword Planner: As mentioned earlier, Google’s Keyword Planner is one of the most widely used keyword research tools. It provides valuable data on keyword search volume, competition, and suggested bids for Google Ads campaigns.