You’ve published content you’re proud of, but it’s stuck on page 10 of Google. We’ve all been there, and it’s frustrating. The problem? You’re selecting those keywords that are way too competitive. If in the start you’re competing with big, established websites, ranking above them can be very challenging. But here’s a better approach. Instead of fighting unwinnable battles, you can target low-competition keywords that actually give you a startup boost at ranking. Let’s show you exactly how to find them.
What Are Low Competition Keywords?
Low-Competition Keywords are search terms that have relatively few strong websites competing for top rankings in search engine results.
For example, ranking for “SEO” can be extremely difficult because thousands of authoritative websites target this keyword. However, ranking for “SEO tips for small business websites” is much easier because it is more specific and has lower competition.
Low-competition keywords usually:
- Less Saturated: Fewer established websites are actively targeting them .
- More Specific: They often take the form of long-tail keywords, which are longer, more detailed phrases (e.g., “best organic dog food for allergies” vs. “dog food”) .
- High-Intent: Because they are more specific, the people searching for them often know exactly what they want, leading to better engagement and conversions .
If you have a new website, these keywords can become the foundation of your SEO strategy.
Always Remember: This isn’t about avoiding competition entirely, but about finding “winnable entry points”.
Why Should Beginners Target Low Competition Keywords?
Many beginners make the mistake of targeting broad and highly competitive keywords. They publish content but see little or no traffic. When you focus on low competition SEO keywords, you increase your chances of appearing in search results more quickly.
Your Step-by-Step Plan for Finding Low Competition Keywords
Finding the right keywords does not require expensive tools. You can use several simple methods to uncover valuable opportunities.
Ready to start your keyword research? Follow this simple, actionable process.
Step 1: Start With Broad Topic Ideas
Begin by identifying topics related to your niche.
For example, if your website focuses on content writing, your broad topics may include:
- Keyword research
- Blogging
- SEO writing
- Content marketing
- Affiliate marketing
After choosing a broad topic, think about the questions beginners may ask.
Examples include:
- How to do keyword research for a new website
- How to write SEO blog posts
- How to rank a blog without backlinks
These phrases often become excellent keyword opportunities.
Step 2: Analyze Google’s SERP Features for Free Ideas
You don’t always need a paid tool to start your research. Google itself is a goldmine for keyword ideas. Here are three quick ways to find them:
1. Google Autocomplete: Start typing a term into the Google search bar and you’ll see a dropdown of popular related searches. These are often long-tail and represent real user queries.
2. People Also Ask (PAA): This box on the SERP is full of question-based keywords, which are fantastic for blog posts. Clicking on a question reveals even more queries.
3. Related Searches: At the bottom of the SERP, you’ll find a list of “Searches related to your query.” This is another great source of low-competition topics.
Step 3: Analyze Competitor Websites
Your competitors can provide excellent keyword ideas. Search your target topic and examine websites that appear on the first page.
Look for:
- Article titles
- Subheadings
- Frequently asked questions
- Long-tail keywords
If smaller websites rank for certain keywords, you may also have a realistic chance of ranking for them.
Step 4: Prioritize “Topic Clusters” Not Just Single Keywords
The most advanced strategy is to think in terms of topics rather than individual keywords. Instead of creating one article around a low-competition keyword, build a content hub. This is a pillar page that provides a comprehensive overview of a topic, with multiple supporting blog posts that link back to it. This sends a powerful signal to Google and establishes you as an authority.
For example, instead of just creating a page for soy candle making, you could create a pillar page and supporting articles on “best wax for soy candles,” “why soy candles crack,” and “soy vs beeswax candles”.
Use Free Keyword Research Tools
Several free tools can help you discover keyword opportunities.
1. Google Search
Google itself provides autocomplete suggestions, related searches, and People Also Ask questions.
2. Google Search Console
Google Search Console shows keywords that already generate impressions for your website. You may discover keywords where your pages rank on the second or third page. Updating those articles can improve rankings.
3. Keyword Research Extensions
Many browser extensions provide estimated search volume and keyword difficulty data.
These tools help you identify easy-to-rank keywords without spending money.
Look for Weak Search Results
One of the simplest ways to identify low-competition keywords is by analyzing search results manually.
You may have found a keyword opportunity if you notice:
- Forum discussions ranking on page one
- Websites with low authority
- Short articles with limited information
- Outdated content
- Pages that do not fully answer the search query
These signals often indicate that search engines need better content. If you create a comprehensive and helpful article, you can compete effectively.
Benefits of Targeting Low-Competition Keywords
- Faster Rankings: You often compete with fewer websites, which increases your chances of ranking.
- Better Traffic Opportunities: Many low-competition keywords still receive consistent searches every month.
- Easier Content Planning: You can discover niche topics that large websites often ignore.
Read this if you want to learn more on low competition keywords
Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
Many new website owners struggle because they make avoidable mistakes.
- Targeting Highly Competitive Keywords: Broad keywords often require significant authority and backlinks.
- Ignoring Search Intent: Even a low competition keyword may not perform well if your content does not satisfy user expectations.
- Publishing Thin Content: Short and incomplete articles rarely perform well.
- Chasing Search Volume Only: Some low-volume keywords convert better because they target highly specific user needs.
Final Take
Finding Low-Competition Keywords is one of the smartest strategies for beginners. Instead of competing with major websites for broad terms, you can focus on easy-to-rank keywords that provide realistic ranking opportunities. If you consistently create valuable content around low competition SEO keywords, your website can gradually build authority, gain organic traffic, and achieve sustainable growth in search results.
Read this if you want learn more on Seo techniques: Seo Vs Aeo
Faqs About Low Competition Keywords
Q1: Are low-competition keywords the same as long-tail keywords?
Not always, but often. Long-tail keywords (3+ words) frequently have lower competition because they are more specific. However, you can sometimes find short, low-competition keywords, especially in very niche topics.
Q2: What Keyword Difficulty (KD) score should I target as a beginner?
Aim for a KD score under 30. This range is considered “easy” and gives you a realistic chance to rank in the top 10 results without needing a massive backlink profile.
Q3: Is it worth targeting keywords with very low search volume?
Absolutely. Focusing only on high-volume keywords is a common mistake. A collection of low-volume, high-intent keywords can drive a significant amount of highly relevant traffic, often leading to better conversion rates than a single, broad, competitive term.
Q4: What is the “People Also Ask” (PAA) section on Google?
The “People Also Ask” box is a dynamic feature on the search results page that lists questions related to a user’s search query. These are often question-based keywords that are perfect for blog posts. Clicking on a question will expand it and often reveal even more related questions.
Q5: Can I find low-competition keywords for free?
Yes. You can use Google Autocomplete, the “People Also Ask” section, and “Related Searches” for free. Many tools also offer free versions or free trials (like Semrush’s Free Keyword Checker) that allow you to check the difficulty of a few keywords.