How to Use Google Keyword Planner for Effective SEO in Singapore

Google Keyword Planner is a powerful free tool for conducting SEO keyword research in Singapore, though you'll need a Google Ads account to access it. Here's how to use it effectively for your Singapore-based SEO strategy.

Accessing Google Keyword Planner

Start by logging into your Google Ads console, then navigate to Tools & Settings > Keyword Planner. Once you're in the tool, you'll see two main options: "Discover new keywords" and "Get search volume and forecasts." For SEO research, focus on the "Discover new keywords" option, which provides keyword suggestions and related terms.

Finding Keywords for Your Singapore Business

When discovering new keywords, you have two approaches:

Start with keywords by entering products or services related to your business. You can include specific terms, questions, or topics relevant to your offerings. Optionally, add your website URL to filter out unrelated keyword suggestions, making your results more focused.

Start with a website by entering your own site URL or a competitor's domain. Google will analyse the content and suggest relevant keywords based on what it finds.

For Singapore-specific SEO, consider targeting localized terms such as "plumber near Jurong East," long-tail queries like "affordable website design Singapore 2024," and high-intent commercial keywords such as "best SEO agency Singapore."

Refining and Analyzing Your Results

After entering your keywords, click "Get results" to see keyword suggestions sorted by relevance. The tool displays crucial data for each keyword:

• Average monthly searches
• Competition level
• Top of page bid (low and high range)
• Historical traffic data for the past 12-24 months

Use the Refine keywords bar on the right side to filter results by brand or non-brand terms, service type, aspect, industry, and other criteria. You can also filter by average monthly searches to eliminate keywords with search volumes that don't match your goals.

Setting Location and Targeting Options

Adjust your location setting to target Singapore specifically rather than selecting "all," as this will give you more accurate search volume data for your actual target audience. You can also set targeting options including language, search networks, and date range to refine your research further.

Using the Data for SEO Strategy

The metrics provided by Google Keyword Planner help you estimate keyword competitiveness through cost-per-click data and eliminate keywords unsuitable for your marketing goals. Prioritize keywords with substantial search volumes that align with your business objectives, then use these insights to create targeted content and plan your SEO campaigns.