Keyword Mapping

A keyword map is the plan that connects your keyword list to your site. Without one, pages drift into the same topics and compete with each other. This entry gives you a reusable table format to keep beside your research.

Keyword mapping vs keyword research

Research finds the queries. Mapping decides where each query lives. You can do great research and still waste it if three pages chase the same phrase.

Think of research as listing every dish people order. Mapping is deciding which counter serves which dish. Each counter should have one clear specialty.

The keyword map spreadsheet format

Keep one row per page. These columns cover most small sites:

Target URL	Primary keyword	Secondary keywords	Intent	Status
/services/aircon-cleaning/	aircon cleaning service	split type aircon cleaning price	Transactional	Live
/blog/aircon-cleaning-schedule/	how often to clean aircon	aircon cleaning frequency	Informational	Draft
/services/aircon-repair/	aircon repair	aircon not cooling	Transactional	Planned

The primary keyword is the main query for that URL. Secondary keywords are close variants the same page can also serve. Add an intent column so two pages never share the same job.

Rules that keep the map clean

• One topic per page. If two rows share a primary keyword, merge them or change one.
• A blank target URL marks a content gap, a page you still need to write.
• Review the map after each new post. Most cannibalization starts when someone publishes without checking it.

The map is a living file. Update it when rankings show Google prefers a different page for a query.

Example

A Pasig cleaning company has a services page and a blog post. Both target “aircon cleaning price.” The map shows the clash right away. The team keeps the price query on the services page, listing ₱800 for a window unit. They retarget the blog post to “how often to clean aircon.” Each page now has its own job.

For hands-on practice filling a map for your own site, use the linked lesson.