Google Sites Keywords

Google Sites keywords are the search terms placed in a Google Site's content and settings to help Google understand each page's topic. They are optimised through visible on-page signals rather than a hidden keyword field.

Also called: search terms
Applies to: Google Sites pages
Commonly confused with: meta keywords tag

Key points

Place keywords in page titles, headings, body copy, URL slugs, and image alt text.
Use language that matches actual user searches, not internal brand terms.
Google Sites does not have a functional SEO keywords meta tag.
Group keywords by topic and intent, then assign each to the most relevant page.
Avoid forced repetition; natural language is more effective.

What it is not

Many believe Google Sites keywords are entered in a meta keywords tag, and some even use a meta keywords generator free tool to create them. However, Google ignores that tag and relies on visible content signals.
Some think keywords must be repeated exactly to achieve rankings. Modern SEO prioritises natural language and topical relevance over exact match density.
Others assume one page can target many unrelated keywords. Focused pages per topic perform better for search intent.
A common misconception is that keywords only matter in the page title. Headings, body text, image alt text, and the URL slug are equally important for relevance.

Common mistakes

Stuffing the same keyword into every heading, sentence, and image alt text. This makes content hard to read and reduces usefulness.
Using one page for multiple unrelated keywords. This dilutes topical relevance and confuses search intent.
Relying on a hidden or nonexistent keywords field instead of optimising visible elements. This misses the primary signals Google uses.
Choosing keywords that do not match search intent or the wording users actually type. Use a tool like the google ads keyword planner to discover terms users actually search for.
Not verifying keyword presence on the page. A simple way to check keywords on a page is using the browser find tool or a site: query.

Questions people ask

How to use Google keyword planner?

Sign in to Google Ads, go to Tools & Settings, and select Keyword Planner. Enter a seed keyword or website URL, and the tool returns keyword ideas, average monthly searches, and competition data. Use the results to inform your Google Sites content.

How to use Google keyword planner without creating an ad?

You need a Google Ads account to access Keyword Planner, but you can use it without running any campaigns. Simply create an account, then enter keywords or a website. The tool does not require you to advertise; you can use it purely for research.

How to search keywords in Google keyword planner?

On the Keyword Planner homepage, select 'Discover new keywords'. Enter a word or phrase related to your Google Sites topic. You can filter by location, language, and date range. The tool then shows a list of related keyword ideas with metrics.

Sources

Google Search Central Primary source for Google’s guidance on how search works and what on-page signals matter.
Google Search Central: SEO Starter Guide Explains the core page elements Google recommends optimizing, including titles and content.
Google Sites Help Documents what Google Sites supports natively and what settings are available.
Google Search Console Help Useful for validating indexing and search performance rather than guessing with keyword placement.

Written and maintained by Nora Lindholm. Last updated 27 July 2026.

Spotted an error? Email me — corrections are logged and credited on the entry. Outbound links are unpaid; most are nofollow.