In 1989, researchers created a search algorithm that would enable search engine robots to establish harmony between a page’s target keyword or phrase, and the body content. They called it LSI. The practice has created some confusion within the SEO community as to whether or not the technology was being used by Google or Bing to evaluate web pages.
What Are LSI Keywords?
SEO Tip: Every beginner starts with a meta title, meta description, and meta keywords list. Since the AI robot can only calculate the relationship between words, it will conclude that this article is an ideal example of ‘SEO Tips” by searching for other related words to SEO such as meta tags, alternate text, and LSI keywords.
The software that exacts this function is called Latent Semantic Indexing, LSI. This process evaluates page content by checking for similar words related to the article’s topic. For example, an article on Coffee Gear should mention ‘expresso machine’, ‘automatic brewing’, or ‘grinder’. The LSI would then evaluate the terms’ frequency and determine the page authority value.
Does Google Use LSI Software?
Apparently, Google does not use this type of LSI software as they have openly denied various times, John Mueller tweeted on Twitter on July 30, 2019, that ‘There’s no such thing as LSI keywords — anyone who’s telling you otherwise is mistaken, sorry.’
So, what does Google use and why are so many people, including SEMrush pushing for LSI? Most people believe that the Google bot is an AI with the capacity to read like a human being. It seems to go beyond just matching semantics (LSI), rather it evaluates context and relevance.
Although we may not correctly label it as LSI, the concept is very similar. Google no longer uses single keywords to qualify pages. The qualification process by Google has modernized beyond the LSI technology, but that does not mean that Google is not doing this another way.
Performing a search on Google, one will notice how the software suggests words to complete your search phrase. Typing the phrase ‘black sheep’ Google auto-suggests: coffee, meaning, wools, cycle. This is not just a random list. This shows what words it associates with ‘black sheep.’
SEO Tip: So, even though it does not use LSI technology, Google does evaluate harmonic terms to add value to articles. When you plan to write an article use the same method to find what Google wants to see in your article. Search for your term and pay attention to the words that Google auto-completes with.
Google has declared in its white papers that it uses advanced systems to perform similar research on keyword accordance and semantics in articles.
Keyword Density Versus Rader Digestible
Keyword density is the ratio or percentage of keywords to the article’s word count, A keyword density of 1-2% means a maximum of 2 keywords in every hundred words. Writers try to maintain a low ratio to avoid annoying readers digestible.
The purpose is to show relevance and authority. It is simple, if your article is about ‘black sheep, then you would have to mention it a few times throughout your article. Doing it in such a way to entertain the reader and maintain good SEO standards.
SEO Tip: here is a good way to use your main keyword
- In the title
- In the page URL
- In the introduction, preferably in the first paragraph
- About once every hundred words
- In the conclusion of the article
- In your image alternate text
Finding related keywords to complete ‘AI’ readability
Is it really necessary to use semantic words or phrases to compete for ‘AI’ readability? The answer is yes. Users will understand more and relate better to well-organized content that discusses a topic in its fullness. Firstly, we should clarify what is semantics.
According to the online dictionary, semantics refers to words related to each other. That means that Google looks for similar keywords to your primary keyword or topic. Where can you find LSI keywords for your website?
Here are some of the top options that will help you find relevant LSI keywords
- Serpstat: This is a paid option but is worth it, as it can be used for SEO and PPC keyword searches.
- LSI Graph: this is a free tool that will help you locate related keywords and phrases for your website. The software is easy to use and requires entering your keywords.
- Google Auto Complete: This is the most recommended method as the recommendations come directly from the search engine. Start typing in your primary keyword and let Google supply the LSI keywords.
- Google People Also Ask: Using this option may provide insight as to what exactly is trending and become a good gauge for the best keywords to use.
- Google Related Search: At the foot of your search you will notice a list of related searches. Pay attention to the keywords in bold and add these to your list of LSI keywords.
Once you have created the list for your article, decide on a keyword density ratio, and try to key it below 2%.
How to Use LSI Keywords
Using LSI keywords for SEO must be the same as you would for any other keyword. However, there are several differences:
- You can use these keywords wherever they fit naturally
- They do not require special positioning, can appear anywhere in the text
- Try to fit them in the main headline, and subheadings – however, make sure that it is natural as it may dissuade readers.
Understanding the need for LSI keywords and not its technology may be best explained by Bill Slawski in his article SEO by the Sea
“LSI technology wasn’t created for anything the size of the Web […] Google has developed a word vector approach which is much more modern, scales much better, and works on the Web. Using LSI when you have Word2vec available would be like racing a Ferrari with a go-cart.”
Portfolio 7 has shared with you the truth about LSI keywords and how you can use them.
