| name | keyword-difficulty-analysis |
| description | Use when evaluating whether to target a keyword. KD score predicts ranking difficulty; combine with intent + commercial value.
|
Keyword Difficulty Analysis
KD < 30 = easy (most sites can rank); 30-60 = moderate (need quality content + decent DA); 60+ = hard (need authority + brand).
KD interpretation
| KD | Difficulty | Realistic for |
|---|
| 0-15 | Very easy | New sites, first 3-6 months |
| 16-30 | Easy | Sites with decent content, 6-12 months |
| 31-50 | Moderate | Sites with authority + good content, 12-24 months |
| 51-70 | Hard | Sites with strong authority + comprehensive content |
| 71-100 | Very hard | National brands, year+ to rank |
KD adjustment factors
Base KD from tools is starting point. Adjust:
- DA differential: your DA vs top 10 average (lower DA = +KD)
- Intent match: if competitors don't match intent, easier
- Content quality: 10x content beats high-DA mediocre content
- Backlink moat: top results with 100+ links = +KD
- Brand factor: brands rank above DA in some niches
Targeting strategy by KD
New site (DA <20): target KD <25 only
Growing site (DA 20-40): target KD <50
Established (DA 40+): target KD <70
Authoritative (DA 60+): any KD with right content
Don't chase head terms before having authority. Build long-tail moat first.
Where this fits in the X3 empire
KD threshold rules for CardPrepAI content prioritization.
