Understanding N/A in Keyword Difficulty: Challenges and Solutions

When using tools like SEMrush to analyze keyword difficulty, you might encounter the cryptic 'N/A' value. This can be confusing, especially when there is a slight change in the keyword, such as 'Agency' versus 'Agencies.' This article aims to clarify why this happens and provide solutions to address these challenges.

Why do I Get N/A in Keyword Difficulty with SEMrush?

There are several reasons why you might see 'N/A' or significant differences in keyword difficulty, even with minor variations in words:

Data Availability

The first and most common reason is data availability. SEMrush requires a sufficient amount of data to provide a keyword difficulty score. If the tool doesn’t have enough data, it will return an 'N/A' value, indicating that it can’t provide the requested information. This can happen if the keyword is too specific or not widely searched.

Keyword Variations

Another key factor is the form of the keyword. Different variations, such as singular (e.g., "Agency") and plural (e.g., "Agencies"), can have different levels of competition and difficulty scores. Plural forms often have higher search volumes and, consequently, higher difficulty scores.

Search Volume

The search volume of a keyword significantly impacts the difficulty score. If the search volume for a keyword is very low, SEMrush might not provide a difficulty score, leading to 'N/A' values. This is because the tool relies on data to predict the competition level, and low search volume can limit the accuracy of the data.

Keyword Intent

Additionally, the intent behind the search query can affect the difficulty score. For example, 'Agency' could indicate a general search, while 'Agencies' suggests a more specific intent. The intent can vary based on the user's search behavior, and SEMrush algorithms might struggle to accurately determine this intent, leading to discrepancies in scores.

Algorithmic Limitations

SEMrush's algorithms have their limitations. The tool relies on complex calculations and heuristics to predict keyword difficulty. However, certain terms or variations might be too complex for the algorithm to accurately assess, leading to 'N/A' values or significant differences in difficulty scores.

Data Updates

Lastly, SEMrush's data might be outdated or still processing. This can lead to discrepancies or 'N/A' values, especially if the keyword is still gaining traction or if the search landscape is rapidly changing. Regular updates to the tool can help mitigate these issues, but they also depend on the tool's update frequency and data processing speed.

Solutions to Address the Challenges

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, here are some strategies to help you navigate the challenges of understanding keyword difficulty:

Analyze Competing Keywords

Even if individual keywords show 'N/A' values, looking at related or competing terms can provide insight into the competitive landscape. For example, if 'Agency' shows 'N/A,' but 'Agencies' has a high difficulty score, it might indicate a strong competitive environment.

Use Multiple Tools

Consider supplementing SEMrush with other tools like Ahrefs or Moz. These tools might provide different data points or insights that can help you make more informed decisions. Comparison of different tools can also highlight discrepancies and provide a more comprehensive view.

Refine Your Search Query

Experiment with different variations of your keyword. Sometimes, refining the search term can provide a clearer picture. For instance, breaking down 'Agency' into simpler terms (e.g., 'Business Consulting') might yield more accurate data.

Consider Keyword Intent

Understand the intent behind the keyword. Different searches within the same category can have vastly different difficulty scores. Segmenting your keywords based on their intent can help you prioritize and optimize more effectively.

Conclusion

Encountering 'N/A' in keyword difficulty scores is not uncommon, especially when dealing with slight variations in words. By understanding the reasons behind these discrepancies and implementing strategies to address them, you can better navigate the complexities of keyword analysis and make more informed SEO decisions. Remember, the key is to leverage a variety of tools and insights to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your keyword strategy.