Where to Find SEO Keywords for Free in 2025

You’re looking for keywords? For 2025. Don’t go throwing your money around just yet.

There are free ways to do this, and they’re not bad, not bad at all.

First, there’s Google Search Console.

It’s free, like a free shot of whiskey, and it shows you what people are actually typing to find your site.

Impressions high, clicks low? Your titles need work, pal, or maybe your content stinks. It’s real data, not some guy’s hunch. Then, there’s Google Keyword Planner. Old faithful.

It’ll show you new keywords, how many times people search them, and who else is playing the game.

Helps you figure out the easy ones, the ones you can actually win at. And don’t forget Autocomplete.

When you start typing in Google, it suggests stuff, right? That’s gold.

It shows you the long stuff, the specific things people are after. It’s like eavesdropping, but legal.

These tools are a good start, a base, you know? You can’t build a house without a foundation.

Now, you’re not stuck with just Google. There’s AnswerThePublic.

It’s kinda weird, all visual, but it shows you what questions people are asking. Good for figuring out what to write about.

Ubersuggest, Neil Patel’s thing, has a free version.

You can check volumes, get ideas, see what your rivals are doing, like a spy.

Keywords Everywhere is a browser add-on that puts the data right in front of you when you search, it’s there, like a sidekick.

Wordtracker’s free version gives you another angle, and Moz Keyword Explorer’s free bit is also worth a look. Each one gives you a little piece of the puzzle.

But, hey, don’t be a square.

There’s a whole world out there besides keyword tools.

Reddit? It’s a bar fight of opinions, but listen close, you’ll find the real questions.

Quora’s the same, people asking everything under the sun.

YouTube? The second biggest search engine, see what folks are watching.

Forums, those little online clubs, they’re full of people with strong opinions on very specific stuff. Pay attention, it’s like getting the inside scoop.

And don’t forget about the competition.

Check out their websites, see what they’re targeting.

Their titles, their descriptions, what’s bringing them traffic, who’s linking to them.

All free data, you just gotta look, be like a detective.

The internet’s a big place, with all the answers, you just need to be smart about it, and you will find the right keywords without spending a dime.

If you want to go pro, Semrush is a beast of a tool, might be worth it, but you can try their free trial, just to get the feel of a top of the line tool.

Remember, free is good, but sometimes you gotta pay the man, but hey, not yet.

Unearthing Keywords With Google’s Own Tools

Google, they know a thing or two about search.

They hold the keys to the kingdom, and they give us some of those keys for free.

You don’t need to spend a fortune, not at the start.

The big G provides a few simple tools that are pretty damn powerful when you get down to it.

We’re going to dig into those tools, pull out some useful information to find the best SEO keywords for your content in 2025. You don’t need to pay for fancy software to get going. Let’s take a look at some tools that can help. These aren’t some secret hidden tools.

They’re right there, easy to use once you understand how.

We’ll get into more complex tools and strategies, but first, these Google tools are the base of any good search keyword research plan.

It is important to get to grips with them before going any further.

Remember this, understanding what people are searching for, their motivations, it’s all about creating content that hits the spot.

It is not about guessing, it is about listening to the data that’s around us. Let’s get started.

Google Search Console: Your Free Data Mine

Google Search Console, it’s like a backstage pass to how your site performs on Google.

It is straight from the horse’s mouth, no third parties, no guesswork, just real data on what’s happening.

Many tend to overlook it, but this tool is a treasure chest for SEO keywords, a free one, at that. This is not just for techies.

It’s a tool anyone can use to find out the exact terms users are using to find your site.

It reveals the real-world keywords that are performing, not what you think should be.

Here’s how to use it, and what you are looking for. First, navigate to the “Performance” report.

Look at the “Queries” tab and you can find out what terms are bringing people to your website, these are the actual words, the phrases that users are punching into Google when searching. It’s a gold mine.

Look at the “Impressions” and “Clicks” columns next to the query, they tell you the story of what works and what doesn’t.

High impressions but low clicks? There is room for improvement.

Maybe the title tag needs work, maybe the page is not what the user expected.

Low impressions and low clicks, it might not be worth pursuing that keyword.

Here are some ways to use the data from the “Queries” Tab:

• Discover Existing Keywords: Identify keywords you already rank for, that’s the first step. Focus on these and improve those pages.
• Identify Low Hanging Fruits: Look for keywords with high impressions but low click-through rates. It’s easier to improve your rank for those pages than to rank for new keywords from scratch.
• Uncover New Keyword Ideas: Sometimes, unexpected keywords show up in Search Console, use them. They can open your eyes to search terms you had not considered.
• Track Keyword Performance: Regularly check your data to see if your SEO efforts are working. Make sure you are improving, not moving backward.
• Improve Content: Use the insights to craft better content. You know what users are looking for, so make it easier for them to find what they want.
• Identify Trends: Look for trends in the data. Are certain keywords performing better at specific times? Use these insights to target your keywords when they are most effective.
• Filter Your Data: Use filters to see how specific pages, or queries, perform and use this to refine your content strategy.
• Check for Position Changes: Are your positions moving up or down in search results? Search Console will tell you if things are moving in the wrong direction.

This tool is more than just a bunch of numbers, it’s a look into the actual user behavior. It is not about guessing. It’s about knowing exactly what works.

By analyzing these searches, you gain a deeper understanding of your audience.

You will have a better knowledge of their needs, and it allows you to create content that truly answers their questions. It’s about efficiency. It’s about using real data instead of hunches.

If you are serious about SEO, you will be using this tool, regularly.

Google Keyword Planner: A Classic for a Reason

The Google Keyword Planner, it’s another one of Google’s gifts to the SEO community, a free one.

It’s designed for advertisers, but it’s also extremely useful for finding keywords for SEO.

It’s not just about paid ads, it’s about figuring out what people are searching for, how much competition there is, and a few other things.

It will help you uncover keywords and know how they perform.

It is essential for any kind of SEO campaign, it is the classic approach for a reason.

This tool helps you to make a plan and focus your efforts on the right keywords.

To start, you’ll need a Google account.

Then you’ll need to navigate to the Keyword Planner in Google Ads you don’t need to run any ads to use it. You’ll find two main options: “Discover new keywords” and “Get search volume and forecasts”. For finding SEO keywords, “Discover new keywords” is the best. Type in a few seed keywords related to your topic.

The tool will spit out a list of related keywords with their search volume, competition, and other data points.
Here’s how to use the Keyword Planner effectively:

• Find Related Keywords: When you enter a seed keyword, Google’s Keyword Planner will show you many more related keywords. This gives you plenty of ideas and helps to expand your reach and diversify your content.
• Analyze Search Volume: This feature shows the average number of times a keyword is searched per month. High volume does not always mean you should target the keyword. It shows the popularity of each term. You want keywords that are relevant and popular.
• Assess Competition: See how hard it is to rank for a keyword. It gives you insight into how competitive a keyword is in the paid ad space. Although not perfect it can be an indicator of organic competition.
• Explore Keyword Ideas: The tool is great for brainstorming. It is designed to show a wide range of related keywords. This can help you find niche keywords that will be easier to rank for.
• Group Your Keywords: The planner also allows you to group keywords into categories. Use this to create topic clusters that align with your business and target audience.
• Filter and Refine: Filter your results by location, language, search volume, and other data points. It lets you focus on the keywords that matter most to you. This way you can tailor your keyword list to your exact target audience and region.
• Plan Your Content: By using the search volumes you can prioritize your content creation process. Start with keywords that have enough search traffic, and are relevant to your business.
• Export Your Data: Export your data so you can keep track of your keyword research, and so you can share it with colleagues.

Remember, the data is an estimate, not an exact figure.

However, it gives you a good indication of trends, popularity, and competition.

It is best to use this tool in conjunction with other tools and information, especially other free tools.

It is important to be sure that the keywords that you target will give you value.

With all the data, you can make more informed decisions and this helps you to focus your effort on the most impactful keywords.

It is a solid tool for beginners, and experienced SEO professionals, it is free, and it is effective.

Autocomplete: Let Google Show You the Way

Google’s autocomplete, it’s that little feature that suggests search terms as you type.

Most people just use it to finish their search, but for SEO, it’s a window into what people are actually searching for in real-time.

It’s a direct look at user behavior, unfiltered and raw.

It is an underused tool in keyword research, it is great for getting new ideas, long-tail keywords, and understanding user intent.

It’s simple, free, and effective, which is why it is used by a lot of people that know about SEO.

Here’s how to use Google autocomplete: Start by typing a general keyword into the Google search bar.

As you type, Google will present a list of suggested search terms below.

These are based on what users are searching for, not what you think they should search for.

This gives you insight into trending searches, variations of your main keyword, and how people are forming their questions. It’s like seeing what’s on people’s minds.

Google tells you the kind of information that users are actively looking for.

Here’s how to utilize it:

• Discover Long-Tail Keywords: Autocomplete is a fantastic source of long-tail keywords. These are longer, more specific phrases that have less competition, and it is usually easier to rank for those keywords.
• Uncover User Intent: Look for phrases that indicate the intent behind a search. “How to,” “best,” “near me,” these signal a user’s goal. Use these to create content that directly answers what users are looking for.
• Explore Variations of Keywords: See how people phrase their questions. It’s not always the way you expect it, and autocomplete shows it to you first-hand.
• Generate Content Ideas: Autocomplete suggestions can spark ideas for new blog posts, articles, and other types of content. It can point out a gap in the market, and you can be the one to fill it.
• Identify Trending Topics: Autocomplete can reflect current trends and hot topics. Use this to create content that is relevant now and it can help you get more traffic.
• Check Local Search Terms: Use location modifiers e.g., “near me” to find out what people are looking for in your area. This is great for local businesses and services.
• Use Different Seed Keywords: Try different starting keywords to get a variety of suggestions. The more you try, the more you will discover.
• Monitor Autocomplete Over Time: The suggestions will change over time. You can use this to track trends and adapt your content strategy accordingly.

Autocomplete is a simple feature that everyone is familiar with.

It provides a great insight into what people are actually searching for in real time.

By paying attention to Google’s suggestions, you can make sure that your content matches what users are looking for.

It is a free, simple, and effective tool for any type of keyword research.

Combine it with other tools, and you will have a complete keyword strategy.

This tool may seem like nothing special but it is a very powerful tool for those that use it correctly.

Leveraging the Power of Free Keyword Research Tools

There are other tools, beyond Google’s tools.

These are often specialized to help you get a more granular view of SEO.

There are many free keyword research tools available.

Although they might not be as complete or as detailed as the paid tools, they offer amazing functionality for free.

These tools allow you to uncover keywords, analyze search trends, and see what the competition is doing.

They can help you find hidden gems and long-tail keywords, which is crucial for a successful SEO strategy.

These are tools that you can use to build your keyword research knowledge, and find new opportunities, without paying a dime.

These tools offer a variety of features that can help you build your keyword lists, and understand what users are searching for.

Using multiple free tools will give you more than one point of view.

It’s best to use a range of tools, each with its own unique strengths, and they will complement each other.

Let’s get into some of the best options that you can use.

AnswerThePublic: See the Questions

AnswerThePublic is a unique tool that focuses on questions people ask.

It’s not just about keywords, it’s about user intent. It is a very visually-focused tool.

It presents keyword research data in a unique way, which can help you to understand search questions more clearly, it shows you a visual map.

This tool is great for content creators that are looking to craft content that answers user questions directly. This is different to just looking at keywords.

When you enter a keyword into AnswerThePublic, it creates a visual map that displays questions, prepositions, comparisons, and alphabetized lists related to your seed keyword.

The tool presents the data in a format that is easy to use, and that gives you actionable information.

It will help you to understand what your audience is asking, and what concerns they have around a certain topic.

This is a unique way of approaching keyword research.

Here’s how to use the free version of AnswerThePublic to its fullest:

• Uncover Question-Based Keywords: The main feature is the ability to uncover question keywords. These are the actual questions that people are asking, which gives you a great idea for blog topics. Use these to structure your content around specific questions that users are looking for.
• Explore Prepositional Phrases: The tool shows how users are using prepositions like “with,” “without,” “for,” and “to” in relation to your keyword. This reveals valuable user intent, and helps you better understand the context around the searched topics.
• Identify Comparisons: It provides comparisons, showing how users compare your topic with others. This data helps you identify areas where users have doubts or are seeking alternatives.
• Visualize Your Keyword Data: The data is presented in a visual format, it is a very distinctive feature of the tool, which makes it easier to grasp and explore. It is easier to see trends, and patterns, and find areas of interest.
• Generate Content Ideas: The questions and phrases generated by this tool are a goldmine for content ideas. They can help you create specific, focused content that targets exactly what your audience wants to know.
• Use the Alphabetical List: It also provides an alphabetized list of keyword variations. This can help you to discover additional keywords, which you might have overlooked.
• Focus on Long-Tail Keywords: The question-based keywords tend to be long-tail keywords. These keywords have lower competition, but it is easier to rank for those keywords.
• Improve Content Relevancy: By using question keywords, you ensure that your content directly answers what users are searching for. This results in content that is more relevant and useful, and will help improve user engagement.

AnswerThePublic is a tool that focuses on questions. It is not just about keywords.

It is about user intent, and by focusing on this, your content can be targeted more effectively.

The visual representation of data is also very helpful in keyword research, and for brainstorming content. It is a unique and essential tool for SEO.

It’s a tool for those that want to understand the questions users ask.

Ubersuggest’s Free Tier: A Solid Start

Ubersuggest, created by Neil Patel, offers a free version with a decent range of features for keyword research.

It provides data on keywords, content ideas, and competitor analysis.

Although it does have limitations on the free version, it is a solid starting point for anyone who is looking to improve their SEO knowledge.

This free tier allows you to get a basic idea of keywords, and build your knowledge base.

Here’s how to use the free version of Ubersuggest:

• Keyword Overview: When you enter a keyword, Ubersuggest gives you basic information, like search volume, SEO difficulty, and the paid difficulty of the keyword. Use this information to assess the competitiveness of a term. It allows you to target the keywords that you can realistically rank for.
• Keyword Ideas: The tool suggests a list of related keywords. This is useful for finding different variations of the keyword you are interested in. It will help to expand your content ideas, and discover hidden niche keywords.
• Content Ideas: Look at the content ideas section, it suggests blog topics and articles. These suggestions are based on what is trending. Use them to create content that is relevant and that people are looking for.
• Domain Overview: See how your website or your competitor’s website performs. You get data on organic keywords, organic traffic, and backlinks. Use this to see how you measure up against the competition, and see how well your site is performing.
• Backlink Data: The tool will show you who is linking to your website, and to the competition. This will help you identify backlink opportunities, and improve your site’s authority.
• Traffic Estimation: The tool provides a traffic estimation for each keyword. Use this to predict how much traffic a given keyword might bring to your site.
• Use the Filters: Use filters to refine your keyword list. Filter by volume, competition, and other metrics. This will help you focus on the keywords that are more aligned with your content strategy.
• Track Progress: The tool allows you to track your progress over time. See how your keywords are performing, and adapt accordingly.

Ubersuggest’s free tier is a great place to start.

It is not the most complete tool out there, but it can help you get a basic understanding of SEO. It is good for building your keyword lists.

You will not need to pay any money to start using Ubersuggest to improve your SEO.

Semrush also offers a free trial that is worth trying.

Keywords Everywhere: Browser Extension Gold

Keywords Everywhere is a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox, that provides keyword data directly within Google search results.

This is a very convenient tool, as the keyword data is visible at all times, as you browse the web.

It does not require you to open a specific tool or a separate page.

It is always there, and this real-time access is what makes this tool so effective.

It is also a free tool, that makes it very accessible.

Here’s how to use the Keywords Everywhere extension:

• See Search Volume in Google Results: The primary use of the tool is to see search volumes right in the Google search results. It appears directly below the keywords when you use Google. This allows you to get insight while searching, which is ideal for those that prefer to do things as they go, without using a separate tool.
• Get Keyword Data on YouTube: See keyword data on YouTube search results. The data includes search volume, competition, and trends. This is great for anyone that wants to do SEO for video content.
• Analyze Competitor Websites: See keyword data when you are browsing competitor websites. This information is good for understanding the keyword strategy of your competition. It also helps you to get ideas for keywords for your content.
• Find Long-Tail Keywords: The tool shows long-tail variations of the keyword you are searching for. This information is useful for expanding your keyword lists, and for building relevant content.
• Explore Related Keywords: Get related keywords when you are searching. It helps you to discover new topics, and uncover unexpected opportunities.
• Visualize Keyword Trends: See historical keyword trends. This allows you to track how keywords perform over time. It can also help you discover seasonal keywords.
• Check Keyword Density: Use the extension to check the keyword density of a page. This helps you ensure you are not overusing keywords, and you are optimizing your pages correctly.
• See “People Also Search For” Data: The tool shows you the “People also search for” data from Google. This gives you even more keyword ideas, and helps you to understand what users are searching for when they type a specific keyword.

Keywords Everywhere is a real-time, practical, and convenient SEO tool.

It is perfect for getting access to data while you browse the web.

It does not require you to jump from tool to tool, the data is always there, as you are doing your research. This makes it a very efficient tool.

Semrush provides a very convenient suite of tools that provides keyword data on demand.

Wordtracker’s Free Version: Explore Alternatives

Wordtracker’s free version is a keyword research tool that provides basic keyword data and insights.

It is not as complete as the premium option, but it is useful to get new ideas and new perspectives.

It is good for diversifying your keyword data sources, and for exploring different types of insights.

It is always best to use a range of tools, and Wordtracker is a good option to try.

Here’s how to use Wordtracker’s free version:

• Find Related Keywords: When you enter a keyword, the tool will generate a list of related keywords and variations. Use this to create different types of content, and to target a range of search terms.
• Analyze Search Volume: Get the average number of monthly searches for a keyword. This data will help you to determine how popular the term is, and it will let you prioritize your keyword targets.
• Explore Keyword Variations: Wordtracker provides you with many variations of your keywords. This is important for targeting long-tail keywords, and other related keywords.
• See the Competition: Get the average number of monthly searches for a keyword. This information is useful for identifying where you have a chance of ranking highly.
• Use the Filters: You can refine your results using a range of filters such as volume, competition, and other metrics. This will allow you to focus on the most relevant keywords.
• Find Long-Tail Keywords: The tool is also good for discovering niche and long-tail keywords, which are important for SEO.
• Generate Content Ideas: Wordtracker helps you get ideas for content. Use the keywords and variations to write blog posts, articles, and other content.
• Use the Free Trial: Wordtracker offers a free trial of their premium version. Try this out to see if you want more advanced features.

Wordtracker’s free version is a good tool to add to your free arsenal.

It is different from many of the other tools out there, and this gives you a unique perspective. It is a good tool for diversifying your knowledge. Use this to add to your current SEO process.

If you need a solid all-in-one SEO tool, Semrush is a great option to explore.

Moz Keyword Explorer’s Limited Access: Worth a Look

Moz Keyword Explorer has some features available for free, it is not as extensive as their paid version.

It can still provide helpful keyword data, and is worth adding to your collection of tools.

Even the limited free access gives you some key information, and it will help you to build your keyword knowledge.

Here’s how to use the free version of Moz Keyword Explorer:

• Keyword Overview: Enter a keyword, and you will get basic information like search volume and keyword difficulty. This will allow you to assess the competitiveness of a keyword, and it will help you to find targets that are achievable.
• Keyword Suggestions: The tool provides related keywords, and different variations of the main keyword. It will give you a range of content ideas, and expand your keyword lists.
• SERP Analysis: See the top-ranking pages for a keyword. Use this to understand the strategy of the competition, and see how you measure up.
• Priority Score: Moz assigns a priority score to every keyword. This is based on a number of factors, including search volume and difficulty. Use this data to prioritize your keyword targets.
• Use the Limited Free Search Queries: You have a limited number of free searches each month. Use them wisely, and target the keywords that matter most to you.
• Explore Long-Tail Keywords: Even with the limited free access, you can find long-tail keywords, and niche topics. This will help you build more focused content.
• Track Keyword Ranking: Track your keyword rankings over time. Moz is known for its tracking software. It can help you to see your progress.
• Explore the Moz Blog: The Moz blog is a great resource for learning more about SEO, and keyword research.

Moz Keyword Explorer’s free access is a good way to start getting to know their platform.

Although it is not as powerful as the paid version, it still provides valuable information.

It should be a part of your free SEO toolkit, for the data and unique insights that it offers.

Semrush also offers many of these features in one complete tool.

Finding Keywords in the Wild: Social Platforms and Communities

Beyond the standard keyword research tools, there is a lot of data available on social media and online communities.

It is an often overlooked source of keywords, but these spaces provide insights into what people are talking about, the language they use, and the questions they ask.

These platforms are not designed for keyword research, but they offer a treasure chest of information for those that know where to look.

By carefully analyzing social media conversations, forum posts, and video content, you can discover keywords that might be missing from your standard toolset.

These platforms provide real-time and unfiltered opinions and questions.

This gives you the chance to understand the user, and their needs.

It’s not just about finding keywords, it’s also about understanding user intent and context, which is essential for content creation.

Let’s take a look at how you can find keywords in the real world, and the best places to look.

Reddit: Unfiltered Conversations

Reddit, it’s a place where people get real, where conversations are raw and unfiltered.

It’s a giant forum, with communities covering every possible topic, each community with a unique audience. This makes it a great place to do keyword research.

You are not just getting keywords, you are also getting access to user intent, and real concerns that are not available anywhere else. It is a living breathing data source.

It provides real insight into the questions that people have.

Here’s how to use Reddit for keyword research:

• Find Relevant Subreddits: Start by finding subreddits related to your niche. You can search for subreddits related to your field, and it can also be useful to use variations, and to look at closely related fields.
• Analyze Discussions: Look through the discussions, and identify the keywords that people use. Pay attention to the phrases, and questions that users are posting. These discussions will show you the language that users are using.
• Identify Questions: Reddit is a place where people are asking questions. Focus on the questions that are related to your niche. Use these as inspiration for content.
• Check Trending Topics: Pay attention to the trending topics and popular posts within your niche. Use this to find out what people are currently talking about.
• Explore Niche Language: Each subreddit has its own unique language, jargon, and terminology. Knowing these can help you build content that sounds real, and that is engaging to the user base.
• Look at User Comments: Comments are just as valuable as the posts. Read through the comment sections to see what else is being discussed. This will give you even more information.
• Use Reddit Search: Use Reddit’s search feature to find specific keywords and discussions within subreddits. Use variations of your main keyword and explore related topics.
• Track Popular Posts: Follow popular posts, see which keywords are being used, and track how the topics develop. This data can be used to inform your SEO strategy.

Reddit is a gold mine of unfiltered data.

It provides more than just keywords, it provides insights, opinions, and real concerns. Use this data to inform your content strategy.

Combine this data with your standard tools, and you will have a well-rounded approach to SEO.

You will be able to create content that truly answers the needs of the user.

Reddit is a great place to get a look at a real community and see what is going on in their heads.

Quora: Where People Ask

Quora is a question-and-answer platform.

It allows users to ask questions and other users to provide answers. This is a very powerful place for keyword research.

Quora is focused on questions, which gives you a look at user intent.

This makes it a great tool for finding the questions that are driving your niche.

This can then be used to inform your content strategy.

It is very useful for understanding the questions people ask, the language they use, and the pain points that they share.

It provides real world examples of what people are looking for.

Here’s how to use Quora for keyword research:

• Find Relevant Topics: Start by finding topics related to your niche. Quora has a topic system that makes it easy to find relevant areas. Look for topics that relate to your content, and pay attention to related topics.
• Analyze Questions: Look at the questions that users are asking in your topics. Identify the common questions, recurring themes, and pain points. These questions are a goldmine of content ideas.
• Explore Answers: Read the answers that users are providing. Pay attention to the language they use, and the information they provide. This will help you to understand the subject matter, and it will also show you how to address questions.
• Identify Long-Tail Keywords: Quora is great for finding long-tail keywords, and specific questions. Use these to create very targeted content that answers specific questions.
• Check Trending Questions: Quora allows you to see trending topics. This will give you a look into hot areas, and can inspire content ideas.
• Look for Related Topics: Quora will show you related topics, use this feature to expand your search, and explore other similar areas.
• Use Quora Search: Use the search feature to find specific keywords and questions within topics. Use a range of different search terms, to get a variety of results.
• Engage in Discussions: Consider engaging in discussions, and answering questions. This is not just great for getting data, but it will also help you to build an audience.

Quora is a question and answer platform, which makes it ideal for getting a view into what questions users have.

This is ideal for forming a content strategy based on user needs.

By using Quora, you get access to real user questions, real discussions, and this can be combined with other keyword research tools to create a strong content strategy. It’s about knowing what users need. It’s about meeting their needs with your content. It is about providing answers, not just keywords.

YouTube Search: Video Goldmine

YouTube, it’s the world’s second largest search engine, and a video gold mine.

When people are searching on YouTube, it means that they want to see content about their search term, not just read about it.

This gives us a look into user intent, and the information that people are looking for in video format.

Understanding the types of search terms that are trending in video format is very helpful to anyone involved in video content creation. It is not just for video.

It will inform your content decisions, no matter what type of content you are creating.

Here’s how to use YouTube search for keyword research:

• Start With Seed Keywords: Begin with seed keywords related to your niche. Type these into the YouTube search bar. This will show you a range of video titles and descriptions.
• Analyze Video Titles and Descriptions: Pay close attention to the keywords used in the titles and descriptions. These are the words that creators have used to target their videos to users, they are what they think are the most relevant search terms.
• Look at Suggested Searches: As you type, YouTube will show you suggested searches, similar to Google Autocomplete. This gives you a look at user intent, and what people are actively searching for.
• Explore Video Tags: Look at the video tags on YouTube. These are keywords that the content creators have used to classify their videos. They give you an idea of what terms creators are focusing on.
• Analyze Comments and Discussions: Look at the comments section under each video. These are a goldmine of real user questions, and comments. This will provide you with more insights.
• Check Trending Videos: Use YouTube’s trending section to see what topics are popular right now. You will gain valuable real-time data that you can use to create relevant content.
• Search for Specific Phrases: Search for specific phrases related to your niche. Use long-tail keywords, and see what videos are ranking.
• Analyze Top Videos: Look at the most popular videos in your niche. This will give you an idea of what the audience likes, and what keywords are working.

YouTube is more than just videos.

It’s a rich data source, with insights into user intent, questions, and trending topics.

Use the platform to help understand the video preferences of your audience.

This data will allow you to craft content that connects with them.

It is about paying attention, and seeing what the users are actually searching for.

Use this data for all of your SEO needs, it doesn’t have to be just for video.

Forum Discussions: Niche Insights

Forums, they’re online communities built around a specific topic.

These are great places to learn about niche areas, and to get access to passionate discussions.

They are a great source of keywords and information.

Forums are often overlooked by people, but for those that know about SEO, they are a great resource.

Each forum has a group of engaged users, which is a rich source of data about the needs of a community.

Here’s how to use forums for keyword research:

• Find Relevant Forums: Start by finding forums related to your niche. There are a huge range of forums out there, covering just about any topic you can imagine. Look for niche forums, as these are great places to find very specific keywords.
• Analyze Forum Threads: Look through the discussions in the forums. Identify the keywords, phrases, and questions that people are using. These discussions give you insight into what the users care about.
• Identify Pain Points: Forums are places where users often discuss problems and issues, look for these, and it will provide ideas for content that will solve user problems.
• Pay Attention to Recurring Themes: See if there are any repeating themes, topics, or problems, these can be great content ideas.
• Explore Forum Sections: Most forums are split into sub-sections, pay attention to these, and explore the most active sections.
• Look at User Profiles: See the profiles of the most active users, and see what they are talking about. This can provide even more information about your niche.
• Use Forum Search: Use the forum search function to find specific keywords, and topics. This will help you focus your research, and explore specific areas in detail.
• Engage in Discussions: Participate in the discussions. It is not just a data mining process, you can also build your reputation as an expert, by helping others in the forum.

Forums are a gold mine for those that are looking to find niche insights, and passionate user communities.

They are often overlooked, but for the SEO expert, they are a key resource.

It’s all about listening to the conversations, seeing what users really care about, and using this to inform your content creation process.

It is an excellent way to understand your target audience.

Using Competitor Analysis for Free Keyword Intel

Competitor analysis is a crucial part of any SEO plan.

It’s about understanding what your competition is doing, what keywords they are using, and how they are ranking. You don’t need to pay for complex tools to do this.

There are free methods that can help you to understand your competitor’s strategy, and find keyword ideas.

By analyzing your competition, you are also finding your own path, finding your own space.

Understanding their weaknesses, and strengths, is a crucial part of the SEO process, and will help you to be successful.

This type of analysis will allow you to find keywords you may have missed, identify content gaps, and refine your content strategy. You’re not copying the competition.

You are learning from them and finding new areas of opportunity.

Let’s take a look at how you can find these keyword opportunities by looking at what your competition is doing.

Examining Competitor Website Structures

Looking at your competitor’s website structure is a great way to get keyword information.

It’s about understanding their website architecture, how they organize their pages, and how this reflects their keyword strategy.

By analyzing your competitor’s website, you can see which keywords they are targeting, and you can see what their content hierarchy looks like.

This information is invaluable for your own SEO strategy.

You are not trying to copy what they are doing, you are learning from their process.

Here’s how to analyze your competitor’s website structure for SEO:

• Analyze the Navigation: Check the main navigation menu, and see what categories and subcategories they

Conclusion

In the hunt for SEO keywords in 2025, remember this: the tools are there, and most of them don’t cost you a dime.

Google’s own Search Console, Keyword Planner, and even the humble autocomplete, they’re all treasure troves of data waiting to be mined.

It’s about listening to the whispers of the search engines, finding the phrases people actually use, not the ones you think they should.

Don’t get caught up in fancy, expensive software when you can start strong with what’s right in front of you.

These free tools are not just for beginners, they’re the foundation for anyone who wants to play the SEO game right.

And beyond Google’s tools, the world is your data source.

AnswerThePublic shows you the questions, Ubersuggest’s free tier gives you a solid foundation, Keywords Everywhere keeps you informed as you browse, and tools like Wordtracker and Moz Keyword Explorer offer valuable insights.

These aren’t just tools, they’re your companions in the keyword search, each with its own unique way of revealing the truth of what people search for.

Social media channels like Reddit, Quora, and even YouTube’s search, are filled with real-time conversations, with the words, the phrases, the questions that real people are using, unfiltered, unedited. That data, it’s gold.

Forums are filled with passionate users, ready to give you their views, and their search terms.

The key is to be observant, to listen to the real people, and to use this data wisely.

Competitor analysis isn’t about imitation, it’s about learning, about seeing what works, and more importantly, seeing what doesn’t.

Look at their website structure, their content, the keywords they’re using, and the content they create.

This is about being a detective, finding the gaps, the opportunities that you can exploit.

Don’t simply mimic, find your own path, your own voice.

Use the competitor’s successes and failures to inform your strategy, always looking to carve your own unique place in the search results. It’s about playing smart, not just hard.

The key is not just about finding keywords but understanding user intent, and creating content that truly answers their needs. Don’t just chase search volume.

Prioritize quality, relevancy, and real value, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty digging through the free tools.

Use Google, social media, and even your competition to your advantage.

With a little effort, a sharp mind, and these free tools at your fingertips, you can find the right SEO keywords.

You will create content that not only ranks but truly resonates with your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to start keyword research without spending money?

Start with Google’s own tools.

Google Search Console shows you what keywords are already bringing people to your site. It’s a real look at what’s working.

Then, use Google Keyword Planner to find related keywords and see their search volume. It’s a classic approach for a reason.

Don’t forget Google Autocomplete, it shows you real-time searches as you type. Combine all of these and you’ve got a good base. You can always expand from there.

How can I use Google Search Console for keyword research?

Navigate to the “Performance” report. Look at the “Queries” tab.

You’ll find out what terms are bringing people to your site.

Pay attention to the “Impressions” and “Clicks” columns. High impressions, low clicks? Improve that page. Low everything? Move on.

It shows you exactly what people are searching for, it is straight from the source.

What does the Google Keyword Planner do?

It shows you related keywords, search volume, and competition.

Type in a seed keyword, and it will give you a list of related terms.

It is good for finding new ideas and also seeing how popular keywords are. It is a classic tool, that is still very useful.

It will help you focus your effort on the right keywords, it is an essential tool for SEO.

How can Google’s Autocomplete feature help with keyword research?

Start typing a keyword into the Google search bar.

Google will suggest terms below the search bar, these are what people are actually searching for.

It’s a window into user behavior, use it to discover long-tail keywords, understand user intent, and generate content ideas.

It is an underused but powerful tool, don’t overlook it.

Are there any free tools besides Google’s that I can use for keyword research?

Yes, AnswerThePublic helps you see the questions people ask.

Ubersuggest’s free tier gives you a basic keyword overview.

Keywords Everywhere is a browser extension for instant data and Semrush also offers a free trial.

Wordtracker’s free version lets you explore alternatives, and Moz Keyword Explorer has some free features to get you started.

Each one gives you a different view, use all of them to get a complete picture.

What is AnswerThePublic good for?

It focuses on questions.

Type in a keyword, and it gives you a visual map of questions, prepositions, and comparisons.

It helps you understand what your audience is asking, not just what keywords they are using. It’s a good tool for generating content ideas.

How can I use Ubersuggest for free?

It gives you a basic overview of a keyword’s search volume and difficulty.

It also provides keyword ideas and content suggestions.

It also gives you a domain overview, use it to see how your website is performing, and to spy on the competition.

It’s a good start, and a good way to get to grips with SEO.

Why use Keywords Everywhere?

It’s a browser extension.

It shows you keyword data directly in Google search results.

It also gives you data on YouTube and competitor websites.

It is convenient, and very practical, you get the data as you search.

What does Wordtracker’s free version offer?

It lets you explore related keywords and see search volume.

It’s not as complete as the paid version, but it gives you a different perspective.

It is good for diversifying your data, and for exploring new insights.

Is Moz Keyword Explorer’s free version useful?

It has limited access, but it can still provide valuable keyword information.

It shows search volume, keyword difficulty, and it also shows you the top-ranking pages for a given keyword.

It is worth a look, and it is a good introduction to their platform.

Semrush can also be a great option for a complete tool.

How can I find keywords on social media and forums?

Look at Reddit for unfiltered conversations, Quora for questions, YouTube for video trends, and forums for niche discussions.

These platforms give you real-time, user-generated content.

It will give you insight that you will not find in other places.

These platforms are a treasure chest of information for the ones that know where to look.

How do I use Reddit for keyword research?

Find relevant subreddits, look at the discussions, see what questions are being asked, and pay attention to the trending topics. It’s raw data.

It’s real conversations, you are getting access to the thoughts of real users.

What can I learn from Quora for keyword research?

It’s a question-and-answer platform. It shows you the questions people are asking.

Look at the questions in your niche, and the language people use.

This will help you understand user intent, and it is ideal for getting content ideas.

How can YouTube help with keyword research?

It is the second largest search engine.

See what keywords people are using in video titles and descriptions.

Look at suggested searches, video tags, and comments.

It shows you the kind of content that people are looking for in a video format, but the data can be used for all types of content.

What are the benefits of using forum discussions for keyword research?

Forums are niche communities.

They provide insights into very specific areas, and also allow you to understand the language of these communities.

Look at discussions, identify pain points, and pay attention to recurring themes.

It’s a great way to connect with a specific audience.

How can I use competitor analysis for free keyword intel?

Look at your competitor’s website structure, analyze their content, see what keywords they are using, and examine their backlink profile. You’re not copying them.

You’re learning from them, finding their weaknesses, and finding opportunities.

How do I examine a competitor’s website structure for keywords?

Check their navigation, see their categories, look at their URLs, check their internal links, and examine their page titles and meta descriptions.

It’s a matter of seeing how they organize their site, and what keywords they are targeting. It gives you a glimpse into their strategy.

Semrush also offers tools to make this easier.