Yoast SEO Keywords Tutorial
Yoast SEO Keywords Tutorial is an SEO topic covered in SeoWiki.
Key takeaways
- In Yoast SEO, the main keyword you optimize a page for is called the focus keyphrase.
- You add it in the Yoast SEO meta box inside the WordPress editor, usually in the Focus keyphrase field.
- Yoast begins analyzing the page after you enter the focus keyphrase, then shows SEO and readability feedback.
For SEO practitioners, Yoast turns keyword targeting into a repeatable on-page workflow by checking whether the focus keyphrase appears in important elements like the title, introduction, headings, and meta description. It also helps avoid common optimization errors such as targeting too many pages with the same term or overusing the keyword unnaturally.
Example
In Yoast SEO, the main keyword you optimize a page for is called the focus keyphrase.
Quick start
- Define the goal for this topic.
- Check the live SERP format.
- Improve one page that matches the intent.
- Measure in Google Search Console.
Common mistakes
- Treating the topic as a one-time task
- Ignoring search intent
- Copying tactics without checking your SERP
Next step
FAQ
What is a focus keyphrase in Yoast SEO?
It is the primary keyword or phrase you want a page to rank for. You enter it in Yoast’s Focus Keyphrase field, and the plugin analyzes the page to check if the keyphrase appears in important on-page elements.
How do I add a focus keyphrase in Yoast?
In the WordPress post editor, scroll to the Yoast SEO meta box. Click the Focus keyphrase field and type your keyphrase. Yoast then shows an SEO analysis with recommendations.
Where should I place my focus keyphrase on the page?
Yoast suggests including it in the SEO title, H1, first paragraph, at least one subheading, and the meta description. Use it naturally; avoid stuffing.
Can I target the same keyphrase on multiple pages?
No. Yoast recommends assigning each page a unique focus keyphrase to avoid cannibalization and to better satisfy search intent.
Related topics
Sources
- Yoast - The perfect focus keyword for your post or page + examples — Primary source for how Yoast defines and recommends choosing a focus keyphrase.
- Yoast - WordPress SEO: the definitive guide — Explains where to place the focus keyphrase on a page and how Yoast fits into on-page SEO.
- Yoast - Keyword research: the ultimate guide — Useful for the research process behind selecting the right keyword before entering it into Yoast.
Reviewed by Lucía Marín, Founding editor.