Keyword research is the foundation for SEO strategy. While premium tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush offer powerful insights, many free keyword research tools can help you discover high-ranking keywords without spending money. This guide will explore the best free keyword research tools and how to use them effectively.

1. Google Keyword Planner - finding keyword ideas directly from Google’s data.
   How to use it: 

• Sign in to Google Ads.

• Go to Tools & Settings → Keyword Planner.

• Enter a seed keyword to get keyword suggestions based on search volume and competition level.

You can read more about it in our article How to Use Google Keyword Planner.

2. Google Search Console - find keywords you already rank for.
   How to Use:

• Open Search Console → Performance Report.

• Check the “Queries” tab to see keywords driving traffic to your site.

• Optimize pages for high-impression, low-click keywords.
  

  

3. AnswerThePublic (has limited daily searches on the free plan.) - helps with discovering long-tail keyword questions. Great for content ideas, visual keyword mapping.
   How to use: 

• Enter a keyword (for example:  “SEO tools”).

• View question-based keywords (for example:  “What are the best free SEO tools?”).

• Use insights to create content that answers user questions.
  

  

• Ubersuggest (Limited searches per day on the free plan) - finding keyword ideas and search volume.
    How to Use:

• Enter a keyword, and Ubersuggest shows search volume, keyword difficulty, and CPC.

• Scroll down for related keyword suggestions.

• Keyword Surfer (Chrome Extension) - check search volumes directly in Google search results.
  

  
  
  How to use: 

• Install the Keyword Surfer extension.

• Search for a keyword on Google.

• See search volume, CPC, and related keyword ideas right on the SERP.

6. AlsoAsked (Free searches are limited.) - finding related questions from Google’s “People Also Ask” section.

How to Use:

• Enter a keyword, and AlsoAsked generates question-based keywords.

• Best to use them to structure FAQ sections or blog posts.

7. Google Trends - tracking keyword popularity over time.

How to Use:

• Enter a keyword to see its search trends over time.

• Compare multiple keywords to find rising trends.

The bad thing is it doesn't show search volume! 

Free keyword research tools may have limitations, but when used together, they can provide valuable keyword insights for your SEO strategy. Start with Google Keyword Planner for basic research, use AnswerThePublic for content ideas, and rely on Google Search Console to optimize existing pages.