Short-tail vs. Long-tail Keywords: The Basics You Must Know

When it comes to keywords in SEO, there are two main types to consider: short-tail and long-tail keywords.

1. Short-tail keywords

These are brief, typically one to three words, and cover broad topics. They are general keywords that are not easy to rank for when targeting a specific topic.

For example, a short-tail keyword might be “laptops” or “SEO tips.” While these keywords can attract a large volume of traffic, they are also highly competitive.

Due to their general nature, they may not necessarily attract users who are ready to take action, like making a purchase. Short-tail keywords are often a good choice for brand visibility and top-of-the-funnel content but can be costly in paid search campaigns due to their high competition.

2. Long-tail keywords

These are more specific and usually longer, consisting of three or more words. An example of a long-tail keyword could be “best laptops for students in Kenya” or “how to improve website SEO ranking.” These keywords target a narrower audience and often reflect user intent, like researching or purchasing.

Long-tail keywords generally attract less traffic than short-tail keywords, but the traffic they do bring is more relevant and often easier to convert(Have a higher conversion rate). They also tend to be less competitive and, therefore, more affordable in paid advertising.

What Type of Keyword Should I Use?

Using a balanced mix of short-tail and long-tail keywords in your content can help maximize visibility while attracting more qualified leads. Short-tail keywords can boost brand awareness, while long-tail keywords can drive conversions by reaching users who know what they’re looking for.

When it comes to ad campaigns, the choice of keywords should be determined by your budget and conversion target. Short-tail keywords will require higher spending compared to Long-tail keywords due to competition. The conversion levels will also differ.