Keyword Pattern Discovery Template
Use this template to systematically discover, evaluate, and prioritize keyword patterns for your programmatic SEO projects.
Overview
This template provides a structured approach to discovering keyword patterns that can drive programmatic SEO campaigns. A good keyword pattern has high aggregate search volume, clear user intent, and can be addressed with templatized content.
Step 1: Pattern Identification
Start by identifying potential patterns in your niche:
Modifier Patterns
- Best [X] for [Y] - e.g., 'best CRM for startups'
- [X] vs [Y] - e.g., 'Notion vs Coda'
- [X] alternatives - e.g., 'Airtable alternatives'
- How to [action] with [tool] - e.g., 'how to create charts with Excel'
Entity-Based Patterns
- [City] + [service] - e.g., 'Berlin web designers'
- [Product] + [attribute] - e.g., 'iPhone battery life'
- [Topic] + [year] - e.g., 'SEO trends 2024'
Step 2: Validation Checklist
For each pattern, validate against these criteria:
| Criterion | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Search Volume | Does the aggregate volume justify the effort? |
| Intent Match | Can templatized content satisfy the user's intent? |
| Data Availability | Do you have or can you get the data needed? |
| Uniqueness | Can you provide value competitors don't? |
| Scalability | How many pages can this pattern generate? |
Step 3: Prioritization Matrix
Score each pattern on a 1-5 scale:
- Traffic Potential: Aggregate monthly search volume
- Competition: How hard to rank (inverse)
- Effort: Resources needed to execute (inverse)
- Business Value: Relevance to your goals
Calculate: (Traffic × Business Value) / (Competition × Effort)
Download
Access the full spreadsheet template with formulas and example data by clicking below.