Google Keyword Planner

Whether you're a small business, PPC Manager or Web copywriter - you will have probably found yourself reading about the new Google Keyword Planner. Nobody likes change, but this time we don't have a choice - it's time to embrace the new. Here is our guide to Google's Keyword Planner.

How to Access the Google Keyword Planner

Firstly you will need to create a Google adwords account. You will not need to pay for advertising but it is essential to set up an account first. Once this is active you can log in and select "Tools and Analysis" menu option then "keyword planner".

The difference between the Google Keyword tool and Google Keyword planner

Firstly, you will need to access it through your Google Adwords account so the interface is a little different and it is generally more targeted toward advertisers. This does not mean however that you have to advertise to be able to use it.

In Google Keyword planner you will only be able to view exact matches on keywords. For instance the average number of searches will be based on how many people have actually typed in those exact keywords. This is opposed to the Google Keyword Tool where the default results showed a broad match for average search results.

The average search for keywords will most likely appear higher using the new tool. This is because you can't distinguish between devices with the new tool. Whereas you used to be able to view average searches for keywords broken down by device.

It used to be that you could tell Google to show closely related terms to the entered keywords. This isn't an option any more but it has been rumoured that Google may be bringing this option back.

How does a basic search work?

There are three options to choose from when you use Google Keyword planner.

1 - Search for keyword and adgroup ideas

This is the option to select if you are wanting to perform straight forward keyword research where you will simply enter in your keywords and Goggle shows you the searches based on that. Google will then show you suggested adgroups which are based on your keyword and advertising information.

2 - Enter or upload keywords to see how they perform

If you enter keywords or upload a file with keywords and get details related to ads that you could potentially use based on your chosen keywords. You will be able to see the average cost per click and estimated clicks etc

3 - Multiple keywords lists

Here you will be able to create two lists of keywords and Google comes up with a list of combinations of keywords based on this. A good way of doing this is to have one list that has a list of activities and the other a list of locations that you can partake in them. Google will then match them up to create the most effective combinations of keywords.