by Daniel J. Gansle

Created on: April 27, 2009

Web copywriters are in an interesting position when it comes to optimizing their articles for the web. With one foot in the editorial camp and the other in the technical camp, those writing web content must balance the two in order to produce effective articles that will be read by the masses. This SEO copywriter's guide is geared toward those who need help with selecting effective keywords that get their articles noticed.

Why is SEO Important?

Today's internet is a huge tangle of millions upon millions of pages of web content. Search engine optimization (SEO) is a method used to promote web content by optimizing it so that the content appears in top search engine results. The higher the search engine placement, the greater likelihood the web content will be discovered and clicked by web searchers. In turn, this produces more page views and greater visibility.

What is SEO Keywording?

SEO keywording is method used to tag the article and define its content through individual keywords and multiple-keyword phrases. An effective keyword strategy makes articles more search friendly so that internet search engines list the article in their top search results and get the content read by more people. Tips for effective keywording include

* using 2-3 main keywords and multiple-word keyword phrases several times throughout the article (but careful not to use them too many times for fear of appearing like spam)
* using the Google Keyword Tool to develop targeted keywords and keyphrases
* conjuring up search terms people may use to find the article (e.g., an article on homeowner's insurance could use "find homeowner's insurance" or "buy homeowner's insurance")

Keep in mind that two methods for SEO keywording may be presented to the copywriter: placing keywords in the article body, and inserting keywords into meta content. Some content websites including eHow, Helium, and Suite101 require writers to insert keywords into a "keyword" or "tag" field in addition to encouraging writers to implement keywords in the main article text as well.

Important SEO Keywording Tips for Web Copywriters

When applying SEO techniques to their articles, web copywriters should keep the following tips in mind:

* Use the Google Keyword Tool for every article in order to select keywords and keyphrases not just with a higher search volume, but also with a higher cost per click (CPC).
* When selecting keywords, narrow the focus so they match the content of the article exactly (e.g., if an article about auto insurance, use the keyphrase "find auto insurance" rather than simply the generic "insurance").
* Determine whether to use single keywords or multiple-word keyphrases (depends on the way people might search for the topic and what terms they may use).
* Do not overuse a keyword or keyphrase in the article.
* Make sure article reads naturally without looking choppy or spammy; such articles will be passed over and not read.
* If entering keywords and keyphrases in a meta content "tags" or "keywords" field, place strongest keywords first and use only 12-15.
* Use strongest keywords in the article title and subtitle.

Web copywriters are creative thinkers who often don't want to bother taking the time to keyword their articles according to SEO practices. However, neglecting this important task may send the article languishing in the deep recesses of the internet where it won't be read. Therefore, it is advantageous for web copywriters to learn about SEO and implement SEO best practices so their articles receive the best visibility and readership possible.

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