The total number of times a keyword appears in content.
Why Keyword Frequency Matters
Keyword frequency matters because it can be an indicator of a page’s relevance to a topic. A page that has a high frequency of a specific keyword is likely to be about that topic. However, a search engine’s algorithms are now much more sophisticated. They can understand a page’s topic by analyzing the semantic relationships between words, rather than simply by counting keywords. A page that is saturated with keywords can be seen as spammy or untrustworthy, which can harm your site’s E-E-A-T signals. The best SEO strategy is to write for your users first, and to use keywords naturally and contextually.
Across Different CMS Platforms
The management of keyword frequency is a content strategy, not a technical one, and it applies to every CMS.
WordPress
For WordPress, the key is to educate your content creators on the importance of avoiding a high keyword frequency. A tool like the Yoast SEO plugin can help by providing a readability score, which can be a good indicator of whether your content is too complex or unnaturally stuffed with keywords.
Shopify
On Shopify, it is crucial to avoid a high keyword frequency in your product descriptions and blog posts. Use clear, simple language that a potential customer can easily understand. The goal is to inform and persuade, not to confuse or trick a search engine.
Wix
Wix’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to write and edit content. The platform’s simplicity encourages a clear and straightforward writing style, which is a great way to avoid a high keyword frequency.
Webflow
Webflow gives you a high degree of control over your content and design. You can create content templates that remind your writers to avoid a high keyword frequency and to use simple, clear language that sounds natural.
Custom CMS
With a custom CMS, you have the most control but also the most responsibility. You can build a content management system that provides your writers with a style guide that emphasizes clear, natural language and a content review process to check for a high keyword frequency.
Across Different Industries
The impact of a high keyword frequency can vary by industry, depending on your target audience.
E-commerce
In e-commerce, using a high keyword frequency in a product description can lead to a lost sale. A customer will not buy a product they do not understand. Use simple, benefit-driven language that a customer can easily understand.
Local Businesses
Local businesses often serve a non-expert audience. A plumber, for example, should not use terms like “plumber Sialkot plumber” repeatedly. Use simple language that a customer can easily understand.
SaaS Companies
SaaS companies can have a more technical audience, but it is still a best practice to avoid a high keyword frequency in your marketing content. Use simple, clear language that a customer can easily understand.
Blogs
A blog can use keywords to establish expertise, but it must be used sparingly and with a clear explanation. The goal is to educate, not to confuse or bore the reader.
Do’s and Don’ts of Keyword Frequency
Do’s
- Do use a keyword naturally. The best way to use a keyword is to weave it into your content in a way that sounds natural and is easy to read.
- Do use a variety of keywords. Use a mix of short-tail, long-tail, and user-intent keywords.
- Do write for your target audience. The best content is written with the reader in mind.
Don’ts
- Don’t repeat a keyword excessively. This is a clear signal of keyword stuffing.
- Don’t use a keyword that is not relevant to your content. A keyword should be relevant to your products or services.
- Don’t focus on a single keyword. This is a dated tactic that can harm your SEO.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a keyword that is not relevant to your content: This can confuse a search engine and a user.
- Ignoring a user’s intent: A keyword should be used with a user’s intent in mind.
- Focusing on keyword density: Keyword density is a dated metric that is no longer a major ranking factor.
FAQs
Is a high keyword density the same as keyword stuffing?
Yes, they are closely related. Keyword stuffing is the negative result of a high keyword density. The goal is to use keywords naturally and not to focus on a specific density.
Does keyword frequency lead to a Google penalty?
Yes. A high keyword frequency is a clear violation of Google’s guidelines and can lead to a severe penalty, including a drop in rankings or a complete de-indexing of your website.
How can I check for keyword frequency on my website?
You can check for keyword frequency by using a tool that provides a keyword density report. You can also have a non-expert read your content. If they are confused, you are likely using too many keywords.
What is the difference between keyword frequency and topical authority?
Keyword frequency is the excessive use of a single keyword. Topical authority is the creation of a comprehensive, in-depth body of content that covers a topic from all angles.
Can a keyword frequency penalty be fixed?
Yes. A keyword frequency penalty can be fixed by removing the excessive use of keywords and by rewriting your content to be more natural and user-friendly.
