Google Ads Keyword Planner is one of the most powerful free keyword research tools available. Whether you’re running Google Ads campaigns or doing SEO, this tool helps you:
- Find high-traffic keywords
- Get accurate search volume data
- Discover new keyword opportunities
- Analyze competition levels
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Google Ads Keyword Planner, including:
✅ How to use it effectively
✅ Best practices for keyword research
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
✅ Alternative tools for better insights
What Is Google Ads Keyword Planner?
Google Ads Keyword Planner is a free tool inside Google Ads that helps advertisers and marketers:
- Discover new keywords
- Check monthly search volumes
- Estimate cost-per-click (CPC)
- Plan PPC and SEO strategies
Who Should Use It?
- PPC advertisers running Google Ads
- SEO specialists looking for keyword ideas
- Content marketers researching topics
- Business owners optimizing their websites
How to Access Google Ads Keyword Planner
Step 1: Sign in to Google Ads
- Go to ads.google.com
- Log in or create a free account
Step 2: Navigate to Keyword Planner
- Click “Tools & Settings” (wrench icon)
- Select “Keyword Planner” under Planning
Step 3: Choose a Research Method
- “Discover new keywords” (for fresh ideas)
- “Get search volume and forecasts” (for existing keywords)
How to Use Google Ads Keyword Planner Effectively
1. Finding New Keywords
- Enter a product, service, or topic
- Click “Get results”
- Filter by:
- Location (target specific countries)
- Language
- Search networks (Google, YouTube, etc.)
2. Analyzing Search Volume & Trends
- High search volume = More traffic potential
- Low competition = Easier to rank for
- Seasonal trends (useful for holiday marketing)
3. Estimating CPC & Competition
- Low CPC keywords = Cheaper ads
- High competition = Harder to rank organically
4. Exporting Keyword Lists
- Download as CSV or Excel
- Use for SEO, content planning, or ad campaigns
Best Practices for Keyword Research
1. Focus on Long-Tail Keywords
- Example:
❌ “Shoes” (too broad)
✅ “Best running shoes for flat feet” (more targeted)
2. Use Negative Keywords
- Avoid irrelevant traffic (e.g., “free” if you sell products)
3. Check Keyword Trends
- Rising keywords = New opportunities
4. Group Keywords by Intent
- Commercial intent (“buy running shoes”)
- Informational intent (“how to choose running shoes”)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Ignoring Competition Levels
- High competition = Harder to rank
❌ Only Using Broad Keywords
- Long-tail keywords convert better
❌ Not Filtering Locations
- Target keywords based on your audience
❌ Skipping Negative Keywords
- Wastes ad spend on irrelevant searches
Google Ads Keyword Planner vs. Other Tools
| Feature | Google Keyword Planner | Ubersuggest | SEMrush |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free? | ✅ Yes | ✅ (Limited) | ❌ Paid |
| Search Volume | ✅ Accurate | ✅ Estimated | ✅ Accurate |
| CPC Data | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Competition | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Advanced |
Best for:
- Google Keyword Planner → PPC advertisers
- Ubersuggest → SEO beginners
- SEMrush → Advanced marketers
Alternative Keyword Research Tools
1. Ubersuggest (Free Plan Available)
- Great for SEO keyword ideas
2. SEMrush (Paid)
- Advanced competitor keyword analysis
3. AnswerThePublic (Freemium)
- Finds question-based keywords
4. Keyword Tool.io (Free & Paid)
- Generates long-tail keyword suggestions
FAQs About Google Ads Keyword Planner
Q: Is Google Keyword Planner free?
A: Yes, but you need a Google Ads account.
Q: Can I use it for SEO?
A: Yes, it’s great for finding search volumes.
Q: Why are search volumes sometimes missing?
A: Google hides exact numbers for low-volume keywords.
Q: How accurate is the CPC data?
A: It’s an estimate, not exact.
Final Thoughts: Should You Use It?
✅ Best for: PPC advertisers & SEO beginners
❌ Limitations: Lacks advanced SEO metrics
Pro Tip: Combine with Ubersuggest or SEMrush for deeper insights.
Google Ads Keyword Planner is a powerful tool that can help you optimize your Google Ads campaigns, improve your SEO efforts, and grow your business. By using the tool to find relevant keywords, understand competition, and manage your budget, you can create targeted, cost-effective campaigns that drive meaningful results. Remember to continually analyze keyword performance and adjust your campaigns for maximum effectiveness.
