Sunday Morning Search Engine Optimisation: How Key Phrase Research Improves Your Writing
Sunday Morning SEO: How Keyword Research Improves Your Writing
by Dee Barizo on March 21st, 2010 
One Comment
I sometimes hear bloggers say they dont do keyword research. They have various reasons for ignoring this fundamental SEO strategy.
They say its too boring and laborious. Theyre afraid it will make their writing too wooden and stiff. They believe it stifles their creativity as a wordsmith. They want to focus on their writing without resorting to a crutch.
They are similar to some of the writers I know who wont use a thesaurus. (My response has always been, Dont you want to use every available writing tool? I understand that its not good to use the thesaurus too much but I dont see whats wrong with using it occassionally.)
Many of these bloggers dont really care about getting more search traffic so the traffic benefits from keyword research falls on deaf ears. But Im here to tell you that keyword research, instead of stifling your writing, actually makes you a better writer.
Keyword Research and Clear Writing
If youre concerned about communicating clearly, then keyword research should be your friend.
This SEO tactic allows you to see which words your audience is using to describe your niche. By using the same words in your writing, you will be able to reach your audience more effectively. By using words they are familiar with instead of words they may not completely understand, you will improve your communication.
Changing a couple words in a post can make a big difference. It can make it much more understandable.
You may think you know a lot about your niche, so you wont miss relevant keywords. However, you could be wrong and it doesnt hurt to check. I thought I knew my niche inside and out. I have a lot of experience and knowledge in my industry but I still found many keywords I wasnt using.
If Ive convinced you, check out Googles keyword tool. Enter the name of your industry and common topics in your niche. The keyword tool will spit out related keywords.
Take note of the relevant words you arent using and start including them in your posts.
If you want more search traffic, include the words in your post titles.