Ranking for "shoes" is impossible. Ranking for "best waterproof hiking shoes for wide feet" is doable. That's the power of long-tail keywords.
Here's how to find them.
What Are Long-Tail Keywords?
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific search phrases (usually 3+ words). They have:
- Lower search volume (fewer searches per month)
- Lower competition (easier to rank)
- Higher intent (people know exactly what they want)
- Higher conversion rates (specific searches = ready to buy)
Example Comparison:
- Short-tail: "CRM" (500K searches, impossible to rank)
- Long-tail: "best CRM for real estate agents under $50/month" (100 searches, easy to rank, buyer intent)
Why Long-Tail Keywords Matter
70% of all searches are long-tail. Most traffic doesn't come from a few big keywords�it comes from thousands of small ones.
Plus: Long-tail keywords convert 2.5x better because the searcher knows what they want.
How to Find Long-Tail Keywords
1. Use Google Autocomplete
Type your seed keyword into Google and see what it suggests. Example:
- Type: "how to start a"
- Google suggests: "how to start a podcast," "how to start a business," "how to start a blog"
2. Check "People Also Ask"
Search for your topic and scroll to the "People Also Ask" section. Each question is a long-tail keyword opportunity.
3. Use AnswerThePublic
Free tool that shows hundreds of questions people ask about your topic. Visual map of "what," "how," "why," "when," "where" questions.
4. Mine Reddit & Quora
Search your topic on Reddit or Quora. Look at how people phrase their questions�these are real search queries.
5. Use Keyword Tools
Tools like Ubersuggest, SEMrush, or Ahrefs show you hundreds of long-tail variations. Filter by low competition + decent volume.
6. Check "Related Searches"
Scroll to the bottom of any Google search page. The "Related searches" section is pure gold for keyword ideas.
How to Prioritize Long-Tail Keywords
Not all long-tail keywords are worth targeting. Focus on:
- Buyer intent keywords: "best," "buy," "review," "vs," "top" signal purchase intent
- Low competition: Use keyword difficulty scores (aim for <30 on most tools)
- Relevant to your content: Can you create a useful page around this keyword?
How to Use Long-Tail Keywords
Once you find them, optimize your content:
- Page title: Include the exact long-tail keyword
- H1 heading: Use it naturally
- First paragraph: Mention it early
- Throughout content: Use it 3-5 times (don't stuff)
- Meta description: Include it
The Long-Tail Content Strategy
Instead of chasing one big keyword, create 10-20 pages targeting related long-tail keywords. They'll rank faster, bring targeted traffic, and collectively drive more conversions than one broad keyword ever could.
Conclusion
Long-tail keywords are the fast track to SEO wins. Lower competition, higher intent, better conversions. Use the methods above to find hundreds of them, then create focused content for each.
Ready to research more keywords? Learn how to use Google Keyword Planner.