A focus keyword, also known as a target keyword, is the primary search term or phrase that a web page is optimized for to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).
The focus keyword is strategically placed in various elements of the page, such as the title, headings, content, meta description, and URL.
Examples of how focus keywords are used:
- Title tag: The focus keyword is often included in the page title, e.g., if the keyword is “SEO scams” the title might be “Small Business SEO Scams: How to Detect and Avoid Them.”
- Headings: The keyword is incorporated into the main heading (H1) and some subheadings (H2, H3) of the page, e.g., “Common Features of SEO Scams” as an H2.
- Content: The focus keyword is used naturally throughout the page’s content, typically with a keyword density of 1-2%.
- Meta description: The keyword is included in the meta description to encourage clicks from the search results page, e.g., “See the most common SEO scams used against small businesses. Get tips to become scammer-proof. And learn how to do search engine optimization the smart way..”
- URL: The focus keyword is often included in the page’s URL structure, e.g., https://aioseo.com/small-business-seo-scams-how-to-detect-and-avoid-them/
- Image alt text: If relevant images are used on the page, the focus keyword can be included in the image alt text to enhance accessibility and SEO.
By strategically placing the focus keyword in these elements, web pages aim to send clear signals to search engines about their content and improve their chances of ranking higher for relevant searches.
However, it’s essential to avoid keyword stuffing and prioritize user experience and content quality.
Using a Focus Keyword in WordPress
WordPress users can use an SEO plugin like All in One SEO (AIOSEO) to optimize their focus keyword.
The plugin will check for the presence of your keyword in:
- The 1st paragraph
- Title and meta description
- Some subheadings
- URL
- Image alt text (if the keyword’s related to the image)
If your focus keyword is missing from any of these areas you’ll be prompted to add it.
