Search Volume
Definition
The average number of times a keyword is searched per month. It indicates demand for a topic and helps prioritise which keywords to target.
What is Search Volume?
Search volume tells you how many times people search for a specific term each month, usually shown as a monthly average. A keyword with 1,000 monthly searches means roughly that many people type it into Google each month.
Most SEO tools provide search volume estimates based on data from various sources.
Why Search Volume Matters
Search volume helps you prioritise keywords. All else being equal, ranking for a term searched 10,000 times monthly delivers more traffic than one searched 100 times.
But volume alone doesn't determine value. A low-volume keyword with high commercial intent might be worth more than a high-volume informational term.
Understanding the Numbers
Volume Ranges
- Under 100: Very low, but can be valuable if highly targeted
- 100-1,000: Low volume, often easier to rank for
- 1,000-10,000: Medium volume, good balance of opportunity and competition
- 10,000+: High volume, typically competitive
Important Considerations
Estimates vary. Different tools report different volumes. Treat numbers as relative guides, not precise figures.
Seasonality affects averages. "Christmas gifts" averages high yearly but concentrates in November-December.
Local vs national. UK search volume differs from US or global numbers. Ensure you're checking the right geography.
Using Search Volume Wisely
Balance volume against competition and relevance. A perfectly relevant 200-volume keyword you can rank for beats a 10,000-volume term where you'll never reach page one.
Consider the searcher's intent and how close they are to becoming a customer.