Does Google Rank Singular and Plural Keywords Differently?

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Does Google Rank Singular and Plural Keywords Differently?

Well, there is no correct answer to it, as SEO is a vast subject and in order to understand the effects of singular and plural keywords on Google ranks, you need to know how the Google ranking system works. Search Engine Optimization is continuously evolving. Google keeps tweaking the algorithms without providing complete information to the public about what all changes have been done at the back end. This means that what works well today might not work well tomorrow. This is exactly why, in order to rank your website high on Google, you would require professional SEO services.

The Reason for the Different Ranking

When it comes to ranking, one of the mind-boggling questions is that why Google ranks the singular and plural keywords differently. To clarify this confusion, John Mueller of Google answered this on the Hangout meetings. The different ranking is mainly due to the intent of the users that is hidden behind the use of singular or plural form of the same keyword.

How it works?

According to John Mueller, in case of Google, the interpretation of singular or plural keywords is done in sync with the varying queries of the customers so you see why it affects the ranking? When a user inputs a plural keyword, there is a chance that the user is looking for comparison pages or different kinds of similar items. Taking this user intent into account, Google shows the pages that are likely to be more relevant for the users. So now you see, how important it is to know about singular and plural keywords before using them on your website.

Difference between Singular and Plural Keywords

While the singular, as well as plural keywords, are likely to be synonyms, it is the search queries that make them different. Singular keywords are used when the users search for information, recommendation, or broad articles relating to a particular subject. On the other hand, plural keywords are more used when the users search on Google to make comparisons between products, services, or sites. Users are likely to use the plural keywords when they intend to make a purchase. Availing professional SEO services and understanding the user intent can help you target the appropriate keywords and rank high on the search engines.

Ways to Alter Rankings

It might so happen that you want a certain page of your website to get ranked, but Google ranks another page instead. But now, you cannot afford to remove the currently ranking page. According to John Mueller, you can choose to subtly tweak things in this situation. Here you have two options to consider. Firstly, you can ensure the right phrasing and the use of the right words on your website pages. You can also alter the key elements like hashtags and change the version of the keywords used in the webpages.

The second option is acknowledging that the keyword variations can offer your website with a better ranking potential. Moreover, you can add a call to action on the page that is ranked already by Google. Make sure to add an impactful call to action that will compel the users to visit all the other pages. This ensures that your ranked page continues to perform well while attracting users to the desired pages.

The difference in Google ranking for singular and plural keywords explained by John Mueller shows the importance and relevance of user intent in case of SEO. With the right SEO services your website can rank high much easily.