Using RegEx for Long-tail keywords

When it comes to SEO, uncovering long-tail keywords can make a huge difference in targeting niche audiences and improving organic traffic. If you’re looking for a way to extract valuable queries that include specific phrases, RegEx (Regular Expressions) can be a game-changer.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use a simple yet powerful RegEx pattern to identify long-tail keywords, with examples to help you on your way.

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Why Use RegEx for Keyword Research?

RegEx allows you to filter search data in tools like Google Search Console or analytics platforms by matching patterns. This flexibility is useful when you’re targeting phrases with specific terms or variations, such as product names, services, or commonly asked questions.

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A Practical Example: “Custom Football Boots”

Let’s say you’re targeting queries around “custom football boots.” By applying the RegEx pattern below, you can match queries that include “custom,” “football,” and “boots” in that order.

RegEx Pattern:

^custom.*football.*boots  

Here’s what this does:

• Matches any query that includes the words “custom,” “football,” and “boots” in that order.
• Allows for variations in word endings or forms, such as “customised football boots” or “custom football boot.”
• Accommodates additional words between terms, like “custom orange football boots” or “custom leather football boots.”

Examples of Matching Queries

1. Variations in terms:
   • Customised football boots
   • Custom football boot
2. Additional words in the query:
   • Custom orange football boots
   • Customised leather football boots

This flexibility ensures you capture a broader range of keywords while still targeting the core theme.

How to Use This Technique

1. Adjust the pattern for your keywords: Replace “custom,” “football,” and “boots” with the terms you’re focusing on.
2. Explore different use cases:
   • Products: Identify variations for specific items you sell.
   • Services: Find queries that combine service terms with customer needs.
   • FAQs: Unearth long-tail questions your audience is asking.

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Getting Creative with RegEx

RegEx opens up opportunities to discover insights you might otherwise miss. Whether you’re refining product categories, creating content for niche audiences, or simply brainstorming new keyword ideas, this approach can guide your strategy.

By leveraging RegEx for keyword research, you’re not only gaining a deeper understanding of how users search, but you’re also uncovering opportunities to optimise your content and reach the right audience.

Simply adjust the patterns above for your goals, and see how much more you can uncover with your data in Google Search Console.