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What Is Keyword Stuffing?
Now that you have a broad understanding of keyword usage, let's talk about what NOT to do with them. Mainly, the only thing you need to worry about is keyword stuffing.
Keyword Stuffing: The practice of inserting a large number of keywords into Web content in the attempt to artificially increase a page's ranking in search results and drive more traffic to the site.
Stuffing is penalized by search engines and will force Google to "demote" your article. However, stuffing is easily avoidable if you just use your best judgment and use them in a way that sounds natural and flows.
Let's take a look at an example of good keywords vs. stuffing:
- Stuffing example: "If you're looking for the best tennis shoes, look no further. Our shoe brand offers the best tennis shoes on the market. Take a look at our new tennis shoes today!"
- Unstuffed example: "In the market for new tennis shoes? Our brand offers reliable, inexpensive, and durable shoes that you'll love. Make the switch to comfortable sneakers today!"
Looking at that example, it's easy to conclude that the stuffed version sounds unnatural and forced, while the second is relaxed and appealing. However, if you're worried that your article might be stuffed, there are two easy ways to determine this.
Two ways to know if your article is stuffed:
- CMND+F: If you're concerned that your article could be stuffed, hit "cmnd+F," enter your keyword(s), and see how your article lights up. If there are too many highlights in your article, it's probably stuffed. Go in, make some edits, use your best judgment, and repeat until the highlights are reduced.
- Read It Aloud: When you read your article aloud, does it sound unnatural and repetitive? If it sounds off and you hear repeating words, it's probably stuffed. Make edits until your article flows and sounds natural while using keywords.
"Less is only more where more is no good." —Frank Lloyd Wright
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