Keyword research

This skill runs a real keyword research workflow on a topic or domain, in the order a working SEO would tackle it. Each step has a clear input, a clear output, and a Semrush MCP call where one fits.

The workflow is intentionally weighted toward keywords that drive conversions, not keywords that look big in a screenshot. A 50-volume term that closes deals beats a 50,000-volume term nobody buys from.

Before you start

Ask for these inputs once. Do not skip this step. The research you run for a 10-page SaaS site is not the research you run for a 50,000-product ecommerce store.

• Topic or seed keywords. What is the user actually trying to rank for? "SEO tools" is a topic. "Best SEO tools for solopreneurs" is closer to a real query.
• Domain. Optional. Use it for existing-ranking research, competitor comparison, and business-context checks when the selected report accepts a domain. The tested public Semrush MCP keyword reports return generic Keyword Difficulty (KD), not personalised keyword difficulty (PKD).
• Whether the Semrush MCP is connected. This unlocks Semrush keyword reports for live volume, difficulty, intent, CPC, and SERP feature data. If it is not connected, you can still classify intent, but the metrics should be marked unknown rather than guessed. The Semrush MCP connects through Semrush's own auth flow, so there is no API key to paste.
• Whether the user has Google Search Console data available. GSC reveals queries and pages already receiving impressions and clicks. Use it to identify opportunities relative to the site's own performance rather than imposing one universal position, impression, or click threshold. If GSC is unavailable, ask for an export or continue with Semrush index data and disclose the limitation.
• Goal. Brand awareness, lead generation, direct sales, or AI search visibility. The goal determines which keywords matter and how to prioritise.

How to use the Semrush MCP

Prefer the MCP over manual brainstorming when it is connected. Use Semrush MCP only. The canonical workflow: