November 10, 2021

YouTube keyword research: YouTube keyword tools and more

YouTube is a booming platform with billions of hours of content. To make your own video stand out you have to know how to market it, and that means knowing how to target keywords. But what exactly is a YouTube keyword and how can you research which ones to use?

Here’s a primer on YouTube keywords: what they are and how you can find the best ones to market your video content.

What is a YouTube keyword?

YouTube keywords are specific phrases or words in your video title, description, or anywhere else that tells YouTube’s algorithm what your video includes. They can be as small as a single word or as long as a phrase (called long-tail keywords). Long-tail keywords generally have higher conversion rates than shorter ones. They also have less competition.

As an example, if your video is about improving your drawing skills, you might target the keyword “easy drawing tips”. To use this keyword, you might title your video something like, “Five easy drawing tips for beginners”. Then, when someone searches “easy drawing tips” on YouTube, your video has a chance of showing up in the results.

How do you research keywords on YouTube?

There are a few different ways you can research keywords to use on your YouTube videos. Some require a little more effort than others but all are worthwhile. They include:

Using YouTube’s autocomplete feature

YouTube, like many platforms, has a search autocomplete feature. When you go to type something into the search bar it’ll pop up with some of the most searched for options associated with your query.

These queries can make for great keyword sources. Because you know people are searching for them, you’ll be better able to target them.

Look at what similar videos are using

Part of doing market research is understanding your niche and the competition you have therein. This applies to keyword research as well.

When trying to figure out what keywords to use, it can be a good idea to look at what other popular videos in your niche are using. Look at their titles, descriptions, and tags and determine what keywords they’re targeting. The more popular the video, the better those keywords obviously worked for them.

Use keyword research tools

Probably the best and one of the easiest ways to keyword research for YouTube is with the help of a keyword research tool. These tools will give you insight into specific keywords’ analytics and reach while ensuring you’re not biting off more than you can chew competition-wise.

A good keyword research tool will help you generate possible keywords, narrow down your options, and structure your content to best target them. If you’re serious about succeeding on YouTube then a keyword tool is your best bet for doing so.

Market your videos the right way

YouTube success is hard work but it’s not impossible. With the right keyword marketing strategy, you’ll be able to climb the ranks and ensure your content is seen by the most people possible. Now you know a little more about YouTube keywords.