‘The best place to hide a dead body is page two of Google search.’
Sounds dark. But in the world of digital content, it is brutally accurate.
We all want our blog posts, product pages, and websites to show up on the first page of Google. And we have all heard the same advice: Use the right keywords.
But here is the thing – using keywords does not mean stuffing them into every sentence. In fact, that is the fastest way to drop your ranking.
So how do you use keywords correctly? In a way that Google loves and your audience enjoys reading?
Let us break it down step by step.
What is Keyword Stuffing (and Why You Should Avoid It)?
Keyword stuffing is when a webpage includes a specific keyword or phrase too many times unnaturally—just to try and rank higher in search results.
For example: ‘Looking for a digital camera? This digital camera is the best digital camera for anyone needing a digital camera.’
Yikes. That is not helping anyone.
Why it’s bad:
- Google penalizes it: Search engines now prioritize content that is useful and natural. Overusing keywords signals spam.
- It kills user experience: No one wants to read repetitive, robotic-sounding content.
- It hurts your brand’s trust: Audiences are smart. They will click away if something feels off.
Step 1: Start with Intent, Not Keywords
Before even choosing a keyword, think about the person searching.
Ask yourself:
- What problem are they trying to solve?
- What words would they naturally type into Google?
- What kind of content would help them most?
If you understand the searcher’s intent, you’ll create content that aligns with their needs—and that’s what Google rewards.
Step 2: Find the Right Keywords
Now that you know the intent, it’s time to find the keywords.
You can use free tools like:
- Google’s Keyword Planner
- Ubersuggest
- AnswerThePublic
- AlsoAsked
Look for:
- Long-tail keywords (e.g., ‘how to use keywords naturally in blog posts’ instead of just keywords)
- Questions (e.g., ‘how many keywords per blog post?’)
- Related terms (called LSI keywords, like ‘search visibility,’ ‘ranking on Google,’ etc.)
Pro tip: Choose keywords with a good balance of volume and low competition.
Step 3: Map One Keyword per Page
Every page should have one main keyword you want it to rank for.
Trying to rank for multiple unrelated keywords on a single page confuses Google—and your readers.
Instead:
- Focus one page on ‘how to use keywords’
- Another on ‘keyword tools for beginners’
- Another on ‘SEO tips for blog writing’
Clean structure = clear rankings.
Step 4: Place Keywords Naturally
Now comes the important part: using your keyword in all the right places – without stuffing.
Here is where your main keyword should appear:
- Page title
- URL
- Meta description
- First 100 words
- At least one subheading
- Image alt text
- Naturally throughout the content
Notice we said naturally – not forcefully.
If it feels awkward, rewrite the sentence. A well-written blog with fewer keywords still performs better than a keyword-heavy one no one reads.
Step 5: Use Related Terms and Variations
Google has become smarter. It does not just look for one exact keyword – it understands context.
So instead of repeating the same phrase, try using variations:
- Instead of always saying ‘how to use keywords,’ say ‘using keywords correctly,’ ‘natural keyword placement,’ or ‘SEO-friendly writing.’
You can even use synonyms and related concepts to enrich your content.
This makes your writing sound human and covers more ground – without repeating yourself.
Step 6: Focus on Helpful, Quality Content
At the heart of good SEO is simple advice: be helpful.
No amount of keyword optimization can save content that is vague, confusing, or boring.
Write:
- Clear answers
- Step-by-step advice
- Real examples
- Lists, tips, or visuals
- Personal experiences if relevant
Remember: Google ranks what people love to read and share.
Step 7: Optimize After Writing (Not While Writing)
Here is a common trap: writing with a keyword in mind instead of writing for the reader.
Instead, do this:
- Write your blog like you are explaining it to a friend.
- Once done, scan it for keyword opportunities.
- Adjust 5-10 places if it improves readability and SEO.
That way, your message stays natural and your SEO stays strong.
Step 8: Track and Tweak
Publishing the blog is just the start.
Use tools like:
- Google Search Console
- Ahrefs (free features available)
- Ubersuggest
To track:
- How your page is ranking
- What keywords are driving traffic
- Bounce rates and time spent on page
If it is not ranking, do not panic – tweak your title, meta description, and headings. Add internal links. Recheck your keywords.
SEO is a marathon, not a sprint.
Keywords Should Be Invisible
The best kind of keyword usage is the kind readers do not notice.
Your blog should sound natural, helpful, and trustworthy. If a reader walks away feeling smarter or clearer – they will come back. And Google will notice.
So next time you are writing, do not obsess over how many times you have used the keyword.
Focus on clarity, quality, and connection.
Because that is how you rise to Google’s front page – without ever stuffing a thing.
