So, understanding the nuances between long tail vs short tail keywords can help you optimize your content<\/a> effectively for both broad visibility and targeted audience engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In this article, we\u2019ll explore the long tail vs short tail keywords differences, how to find and use them to nail your SEO strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To better understand the long tail vs short tail keywords differences, we will need to first explain what long tail keywords are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Long tail keywords are specific phrases that typically contain three or more words. Unlike short tail keywords, which are broader and more general, long tail keywords aim to address specific user intents.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to recent research<\/a>, 91.8% of all search queries are long keywords. That\u2019s how popular they are. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, many businesses might still overlook their potential, which is why we\u2019ve put together this guide to help you use the power of long tail keywords for your SEO strategy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When discussing long tail vs short tail keywords differences, it should be mentioned that long tail keywords are characterized by their specificity and intent clarity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are a few long tail keywords examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, in this screenshot, \u201cbest content analysis tools\u201d can be considered a long tail keyword.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We covered long tail keywords examples, now let\u2019s do the same for short tail keywords. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A popular term, often found in the glossaries related to SEO<\/a>, which needs to be clearly defined. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, let\u2019s do it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Short tail keywords consist of one to three words and are characterized by their broad and general nature. They typically generate high search volumes but are also highly competitive.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n For instance, a search for “link building” includes a wide range of topics related to backlinks, link builders, etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While these keywords can drive significant traffic, they often result in lower conversion rates due to their lack of specificity in addressing user intents. This is a key consideration when evaluating long tail vs short tail keywords for your SEO strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, when comparing long tail vs short tail keywords, the distinction lies within long tail keywords being more focused and specific. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We now know what short tail keywords are, so let\u2019s look at their examples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our guide about long tail vs short tail keywords differences would not be complete without bringing examples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are some examples of short tail keywords:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, in this picture, \u201cguest posting\u201d is considered a short tail keyword.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While these short tail keywords examples can drive traffic and visibility<\/a>, they require strong SEO strategies and significant effort to rank competitively due to their high competition levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, let\u2019s cover this more in-depth in the next section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can\u2019t be stressed enough that when it comes to search engine optimization (SEO), choosing the right keywords is necessary. So, let\u2019s explore the long tail vs short tail keywords differences together to see how each helps in SEO. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Short tail keywords generally have a high search volume, meaning many people search for these terms. Due to their broad nature, short tail keywords face intense competition, as many websites and businesses target these keywords, making it challenging to rank high in search engine results pages (SERPs). <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, users searching with short tail keywords may have varied intents, which can lead to a lower conversion rate. They might be in the early stages of their search and not ready to make a purchase or commit to a decision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Why\u2019s that? Because they don\u2019t know what they specifically want. Long tail keywords are the ones covering specific topics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As shown in the picture below, these keywords generally have a lower search volume compared to short tail keywords. They also face less competition, so if you know how to rank for long tail keywords, you most likely won\u2019t face a lot of competition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We have already mentioned what are short tail keywords, and they, on the other hand, have higher search volume and face more competition (see the picture below). This is one of the main differences between long tail and short tail keywords. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually users searching with long tail keywords are usually further along in the decision-making process and are more likely to convert, because they specifically know what they are searching for. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Understanding the difference between long tail and short tail keywords is crucial for creating an effective SEO strategy that drives high traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, now that you understand the distinction between long tail vs short tail keywords, let\u2019s move on to the next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Following the ideas in the previous part, we can determine the effectiveness of short vs long tail keywords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With short tail keywords, it\u2019s quite possible to outrank the top pages. Although it may take months or even years to fine tune your content<\/a> to rank in the top 10. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, even though long tail and short tail keywords are different in many ways, both have their place in an effective SEO strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It really doesn’t matter which of these keyword types you prefer the most, just make sure to avoid keyword stuffing<\/a> your content and you\u2019ll be able to optimize it for search engines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, it is better to target both long tail keywords and short tail keywords to see optimal results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here comes the question of how to find low competition long tail keywords, or short tail and long tail keywords in general. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Finding the right balance of long tail vs short tail keywords requires a strategic approach and the use of various tools and techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s neither an easy nor a hard task. You just need the right tools and resources at your hand to conduct your keyword research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s start!<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the keyword research tools you can use is Ahrefs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can analyze long tail and short tail keywords using this tool and get all the details about these keyword types. If you’re wondering exactly what is Ahrefs used for<\/a>, one of its key functions is that you can analyze long-tail and short-tail keywords, to get all the details about these keyword types. You can use it to find long tail keywords with low SEO difficulty or the opposite. Whatever you are actively searching for.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n But before any keyword research you need to have primary or seed keywords<\/a> in mind, which can help you with the researching process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, as shown below, if we log into Ahrefs and write down in the Keyword Explorer section the short keyword \u201cbacklinks,\u201d we can see that it’s super hard to rank for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you scroll down a bit you can get some other keyword ideas related to backlinks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can sort these long tail keywords and short tail keywords by their keyword difficulty (KD). And if you go to the last pages, you will find long tail or short tail keywords examples with lower KD. So, it will be easier to, let\u2019s say, find long tail keywords with low SEO difficulty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to know how to find long tail keywords with Ahrefs, we can look at long tail keywords examples as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, it will be pretty easy to rank with the keyword \u201chow many backlinks are good,\u201d because it has a lower KD and moderate search volume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can go ahead and play around with the Keyword Explorer and figure out how to find long tail keywords with Ahrefs to help you rank higher. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, you can use Ahrefs to learn the best ways on how to rank for long tail keywords or short tail keywords, find long tail keywords with low SEO difficulty or higher \u2013 it depends on what you\u2019re looking for. Ahrefs can provide both, because it is a pretty easy tool that covers a lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another way to find long tail and short tail keywords is by analyzing competitors\u2019 keywords. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ahrefs\u2019 Site Explorer can help with this. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What you need to do: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Step 1:<\/strong> Enter the URL you want to research<\/p>\n\n\n\n Step 2:<\/strong> Go to the Organic Keywords report section <\/p>\n\n\n\n Step 3:<\/strong> Set the Volume. We\u2019ve used 300 for the example. If you are not happy with the results, you can go higher, but it\u2019s recommended not to go above a few hundred, as you probably won\u2019t find long tail keywords at that stage. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n If we look up HubSpot and follow the steps, we\u2019ll get these keywords:<\/p>\n\n\n\n When searching for long tail and short tail keywords, consider looking at what other tools you can use and compare the results, because Ahrefs is one among many. However if you want to specifically know how to find long tail keywords with Ahrefs and how to rank for long tail keywords, then it\u2019s the place to go. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Moving on to the next option!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Using Google Autosuggest is another way and probably one of the easiest ways to search and compare short vs long tail keywords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Google Autosuggest is a Google Search feature that provides search term predictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, if you type \u201clink building \u201d into the search bar, you will see something like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, all you have to do is to begin by entering a keyword or phrase related to your topic into the Google search bar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you type, Google Autosuggest will start displaying popular search queries related to your initial keyword. These suggestions are based on actual user searches and indicate common short tail keywords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pay attention to the variations and additional long and short tail keywords that Google suggests. These are often broader and more generic terms that receive higher search volumes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can look for longer, more detailed suggestions that Google provides. These tend to be more specific and less competitive, making them perfect for long tail keyword targeting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, you can cluster the keywords<\/a>, organizing related keywords in groups, which if implemented in your strategy, can make search engines understand your content more effectively. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you don\u2019t like any of Google\u2019s suggestions, you don\u2019t need to go the extra mile to search for long tail vs short tail keywords. All you need to do is write down your topic on Google search and look through keywords used in related topics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Google’s People Also Ask (PAA) feature is another great way for discovering related queries and helping in your keyword research. It can provide valuable insights into long tail vs short tail keywords that users are interested in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start by entering a broad keyword or phrase related to your topic into the Google search bar and look at the initial search results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the search results, you’ll find a section titled People Also Ask, which typically appears after the first few organic search results and before the Related Searches section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the example below, when we search \u201cbacklinks and their types\u201d we get this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Click on one of the questions in the PAA box that is related to what you\u2019ve searched for. Google will expand this question to show a brief answer and additional related questions underneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then, review the suggested questions to identify new long tail vs short tail keywords and variations that are related to your topic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can use the questions in the PAA box to find a list of long tail keywords related to what you searched. These queries are typically more specific and reflect different aspects of the main topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if you use these insights effectively, you can find many long and short tail keywords related to the topic you\u2019re interested in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, keep in mind that if you want to know how to find low competition long tail keywords, PAA isn\u2019t the place to go to, because it can\u2019t give you any metrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our next option though can provide you with these metrics, so let\u2019s see!<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also use Google Trends to find long tail and short tail keywords. <\/p>\n\n\n\n How? Let\u2019s see!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Begin by entering your primary keyword into Google Trends<\/a> to analyze its search interest over time and click Explore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In the example below, we have searched for \u201clink building.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll see a graph showing the keyword\u2019s popularity. It has a scale from 0-100. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Obviously, 0 would indicate that the keyword is experiencing a very small amount of interest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you look at the peaks of the graph shown below, you can see during what season that keyword had the most popularity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also apply filters for country, time range, category, and so on, to get more specific data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If we filter it accordingly, we get these results (see below). <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also compare some keywords, using the Compare button. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If we compare the \u201clink building\u201d keyword to \u201clink building in SEO,\u201d we get these results. This helps you see during what periods these keywords peaked, and refine your strategy accordingly (see the picture below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a good option if you want to know how to find low competition long tail keywords or short tail keywords. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Overall, by using Google Trends effectively, you can find valuable insights that can help improve your SEO efforts and drive targeted traffic to your website. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it\u2019s not our last option. We\u2019ve got some more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Besides the platforms made for SEO and keyword research, you can use Reddit, Quora and other similar platforms to find long and short tail keywords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s how! <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, firstly, Quora is a question-and-answer platform that allows users to ask questions, answer questions, and interact with other users’ content. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can search on Quora for topics related to your industry. Its search function allows you to find popular questions and discussions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When searching for different keyword types<\/a>, pay attention to the language used in questions and answers. Identify keywords and phrases that are commonly used and relevant to your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, you can read through answers to see how users are responding to these questions. Phrases used in answers can provide insights into long tail keyword opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Search for the topic you wanna explore, and you\u2019ll get some long tail keyword ideas from people\u2019s discussions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As shown below, when you search for \u201clink building,\u201d you can see discussions around that topic, and get some keyword ideas from them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, these popular discussions can provide insights into what topics are popular and what people are interested in learning more about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can follow discussions over time to identify trending topics and see what people are asking about. This can help in adjusting your SEO strategy<\/a> accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What about Reddit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Firstly, Reddit is a social news and discussion platform where registered members can submit content, such as text posts or direct links. It is organized into “subreddits,” which are individual communities centered around specific topics, interests, or themes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that we got that out of the way, let\u2019s see how it can help in your keyword research.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat are Long Tail Keywords?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Long Tail Keywords Examples<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/long-tail-keyword-example-1024x488.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat are Short Tail Keywords?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Short Tail Keywords Examples<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/short-tail-keyword-example-1024x491.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLong Tail vs Short Tail Keywords: Key Differences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Long](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/long-tail-keywords-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/long-tail-keyword-example-ahrefs-1024x492.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/short-tail-keyword-example-ahrefs-1024x490.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLong Tail vs Short Tail Keywords: Which are Better for SEO?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How to Find Long Tail and Short Tail Keywords?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Use a Keyword Research Tool<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/super-hard-keyword-example-1024x489.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/super-hard-matching-keywords-1024x489.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-difficulty-list-1024x494.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/long-tail-keyword-example-lowkd-1024x490.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnalyze competitor keywords<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/hubspot-keyword-examples-1024x463.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nUse Google Autosuggest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/google-autosuggest-keywords-example-1024x489.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLook on Google\u2019s People Also Ask<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/google-paa-section-keyword-1024x489.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nExplore Google Trends <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-search-google-trends-1024x485.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/google-trends-keyword-search-example-1024x467.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-comparison-google-trends-1024x466.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nExplore Quora, Reddit, and similar platforms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keywords-quora-1024x490.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-research-reddit-1024x493.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-planner-example-1024x492.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-planner-search-example-1024x491.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-ideas-on-keyword-planner-1024x490.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-ideas-metrics-1024x490.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Screenshot](\"https:\/\/saynine.ai\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-refining-google-planner-1024x487.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n