which keyword should i focus on

Hello,

I have 2 keywords that are very similar, the difference being that 1 has in s at the end of the word. Here are the google stats for the keywords:

Competition Global Monthly Searches Local Monthly Searches
0.34 7480000 2740000
0.24 5000000 3350000

The one on top has the s at the end of it. It seems it may be fairly easy to rank high for either of these keywords since there isn't much competition but should I dedicate my all my resources just to one or mix it up and do a 60/40 split on my resources.

Just go for the plural version

The general rule of thumb for searches is that the plural contains the singular. So a search for widget should return widget and widgets in the results, but a search for widgets will only return widgets.

As far as ranking for the search term though, you run into the same kind of thing as long tail keywords. It very well may be easier to rank for the plural term than it would for the singular.

This is really the kind of thing you'll need to judge based on the search volume and especially competition factors. It might be worth experimenting by promoting both links equally and then checking your stats to see which term is bringing in the most traffic, and use a serp checker to see which one your site ranks better for. Once you determine that you can adjust your tactics to concentrate on whichever one turns out to be the more successful term.

I kinda feel that if i do a 50/50 split on my resources i won't be anywhere where i want to be on either keyword..so maybe i will just focus on the singular version?

It is always best to use an s at the end of your key words.

Also make sure you are looking at "Exact" numbers and not "broad"

I totally agree with GreyWolf - go plural on it and when you build back links build them using the singular and plural as your anchor text.

Competition Global Monthly Searches Local Monthly Searches
0.34 7480000 2740000
0.24 5000000 3350000

Click to expand...

I hope you are aware, 0.34 & 0.24 is NOT SEO competition. If you are going after a keyword by seeing this value for keyword competition, then you are doing it wrong. Either you should use MS or TT to check the SEO and verify the results manually to judge the competition.

The search count seems like a broad search count. Check the exact search count. If it is very low then look for some other keywords.

I agree with GreyWolf and shezboy. I am dealing with the same situation and I am actually ranking better for the plural version of the keyword. I personally find it easier to rank for the plural version of the keyword rather than the singular version. There is more authority sites and tougher competition for the singular version for my keyword. As far as backlinking I am doing both keywords equally and ranking better for the plural. I hope this helps you out. Good luck