Is keyword density a ranking factor?

In one line

No. Keyword density is not a Google ranking factor. There's no target percentage, writing naturally about the topic matters far more than repeating an exact phrase.

The truth

Google understands topics and intent, not keyword counts. Stuffing an exact phrase to hit a 'density' reads badly and can look manipulative. Modern search rewards covering the subject and its related concepts well, using natural language a reader would actually use.

What to do instead

Write for the reader, cover the topic and its subtopics thoroughly, and use the keyword and its natural variations where they fit. Match search intent and answer the question, that's what ranks, not a magic percentage.

Frequently asked

What keyword density should I aim for?

None, there's no target. Use your keyword naturally and focus on covering the topic and matching intent instead.

Can too many keywords hurt me?

Yes, obvious keyword stuffing reads poorly and can look manipulative to Google. Natural language wins.

Put this into practice

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