Do you still check pages that rank for the wrong keywords?

Checking GSC impressions for unexpected keywords is honestly one of the best low-hanging fruit strategies for content optimization.

My process usually comes down to 3 steps:

1. Search Intent check: I search the query to see what google is ranking top 3. If my current page matches that intent, I’ll naturally weave the keyword/ subtopic in or add a targeted FAQ section.
2. Cannibalization risk: I make sure no other page on the site is already targeting that query before making changes.
3. Dedicated page vs. Update: If the accidental keyword has solid volume, a distinct sub-intent, or commercial value, I build a separate sub-page and internal link to it rather than over optimizing the current page.

If it's just random low-relevance queries i leave it untouched. Forcing keywords often does more harm to existing rankings than good.

I normally check those keywords but i would not optimize the page for every unexpected query. If the keyword is closely related and fits naturally with the existing content i will expand the page a little. If it has a completely different intent i would either target it with a separate page or leave it alone rather than forcing it into the current one.

stery said:

I normally check those keywords but i would not optimize the page for every unexpected query. If the keyword is closely related and fits naturally with the existing content i will expand the page a little. If it has a completely different intent i would either target it with a separate page or leave it alone rather than forcing it into the current one.

Click to expand...

That’s basically what I do as well. If the intent is different, then forcing that keyword into the page is probably only going to harm it. It’s better to create another page if the intent warrants it.