How to Add SEO Keywords in WordPress
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of the most important factors for getting your WordPress website noticed on Google. If you want more traffic, better rankings, and more customers from the U.S. market, learning how to properly add SEO keywords in WordPress is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what SEO keywords are, where to add them in WordPress, and best practices to help your content rank higher—all explained in simple terms.
What Are SEO Keywords?
SEO keywords refer to the words and phrases that individuals enter into the search engines such as Google in search of information, products or services.
An example is that a person may search:
- “best WordPress SEO plugins“
- “how to optimize a blog post”
- “local SEO services in the USA”
By including these keywords in your content on WordPress in a strategic manner, the search engines can be able to know what your page is all about and then display it to the right people.
Why Adding SEO Keywords in WordPress Matters
Adding SEO keywords correctly helps you:
- Be at the top of Google search
- Drive more organic traffic
- Target the appropriate market
- Improve click-through rates
- Increase leads and sales.
Even good content might never be found without the optimization of the key words.
Step 1: Choose the Right SEO Keywords
Keywords to be added to WordPress have to be chosen beforehand.
Use Keyword Research Tools
Popular tools used in the include:
- Google Keyword Planner
- Ahrefs
- SEMrush
- Ubersuggest
Look for keywords with:
- High search volume in the U.S.
- Low to medium competition
- Clear search intent
- Focus on User Intent
Ask yourself:
- Does the user seek information?
- Are they ready to buy?
- Are they comparing options?
For example, “how to add SEO keywords in WordPress” is an informational keyword, perfect for a blog post like this.
Step 2: Install an SEO Plugin in WordPress
WordPress lacks in-built sophisticated SEO functionality, and thus a plugin will be required.
Popular WordPress SEO Plugins
- Yoast SEO
- Rank Math
- All in One SEO (AIOSEO)
These plugins help you:
- Add focus keywords
- Maximize titles and meta descriptions
- Analyze keyword usage
- Improve readability.
The plug in will be placed just below or next to the post editor once installed.
Step 3: Add SEO Keywords to Your Post Title
The title is among the most vital areas to place the SEO keywords.
Best Practices for Titles
- Insert your main keyword organically.
- Keep it under 60 characters
- Make it interesting to readers.
Example:
- Adding Search Engine Optimization Keywords to WordPress (Beginners Guide).
This will inform the users as well as the search engines of what the page entails.
Step 4: Use Keywords in Headings and Subheadings
Headings enable the organization of your content and enhance SEO.
Where to Add Keywords
H1: Main title (only one per page)
H2: Main sections
H3: Subsections
Example:
H2: How to Add SEO Keywords in WordPress Posts.
H3: The addition of Keywords to Headings.
This simplifies your content to scan and increases relevance of keywords.
Step 5: Add Keywords Naturally in the Content
Search engines are smart. The stuffing of key words may in fact damage your ranking.
Best Practices in Keyword Positioning
- Insert your main key word within the 100 first words.
- Add variations and synonyms.
- Write not only to search engines, but also to humans.
Example Variations:
- WordPress SEO optimization
- SEO keywords for WordPress
- Search engine optimization of WordPress.
This will make your content rank in several related searches.
Step 6: Optimize the Meta Title and Meta Description
The SEO plug-in that you use enables you to tailor the appearance of your post on Google search.
Meta Title Tips
- Insert your major keyword.
- Keep it under 60 characters
- Make it compelling
Meta Description Tips
- Use 1-2 keywords
- Keep it under 160 characters
- Focus on benefits
Example Meta Description:
How to add SEO keywords in WordPress and get higher ranking, attract U.S. traffic, and expand your site without problems.
Step 7: Add Keywords to Image Alt Text
Images also play a role in SEO.
Why Alt Text Matters
- Helps Google cognize
- Improves accessibility
- Favors picture search traffic.
Example Alt Text:
adding search engine optimization keywords in WordPress editor.
Avoid stuffing keywords—keep it descriptive and relevant.
Step 8: Use Keywords in URLs (Permalinks)
Your URL should be clean and keyword-focused.
Good URL Example
yourwebsite.com/add-seo-keywords-wordpress
Avoid
yourwebsite.com/?p=123
Short, readable URLs perform better in search results and are easier to share.
Step 9: Add Internal Links Using Keywords
Internal linking assists search engines to comprehend the site structure of your site.
How to Do It Right
- Link to related blog posts
- Use descriptive anchor text
- Avoid over-optimization
Example:
- Get to know more about best practices of WordPress SEO in our comprehensive guide.
This enhances search engine optimization and makes the user spend more time.
Step 10: Monitor Keyword Performance
Monitor your keywords after the publication.
Tools to Use
- Google Search Console
- Google Analytics
- Your SEO plugin dashboard
Monitor:
- Keyword rankings
- Click-through rates
- Organic traffic from the U.S.
Modify your content as necessary in order to get better results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Keyword stuffing.
- Ignoring search intent.
- Repeating one and the same keyword in several pages.
- Leaving mobile optimization behind.
- Skipping meta descriptions.
These are some of the mistakes that can be avoided to enhance your rankings greatly.
Bill Yeager, Co-Owner of High Point SEO & Marketing in CT
