What is a "seed keyword" in the context of keyword research?

A seed keyword is a foundational term that broadly defines your niche or business. It's the starting point for more extensive keyword research, helping you uncover related terms, long-tail keywords, and competitor strategies. For example, if you sell running shoes, "running shoes" would be a seed keyword. Incorrect options: Keywords used only by competitors are not necessarily seed keywords; seed keywords are fundamental to your own niche. Keywords with very low search volume are typically long-tail keywords, which are often derived from seed keywords, not seed keywords themselves. Only branded keywords that include your company name are too narrow; seed keywords are broader and define the entire niche, not just a specific brand.