How to Map Keywords to Your Website (& Avoid Cannibalisation)

30 June 2026·1 min read

Quick answer: Keyword mapping means assigning one main keyword (and topic) to each page, so every page has a clear job and no two pages compete for the same term. List your pages, give each a primary keyword and related terms, and make sure you’re not targeting the same keyword twice. Clear mapping prevents cannibalisation and helps Google know which page to rank. 📈

When two pages chase the same keyword, they fight each other. Mapping fixes that. 💖

How to map keywords

List your pages — what you’ve got
One primary keyword each — a clear job
Add related terms — support the main one
Spot overlaps — two pages, one keyword
Fix duplicates — merge or differentiate

💡 One page, one keyword. If two pages target the same keyword, Google doesn’t know which to rank — so it ranks neither well. Give each page one clear keyword and topic, and merge or redirect any duplicates.

Frequently asked questions

What is keyword mapping?

Keyword mapping is assigning one main keyword and topic to each page of your site, so every page has a clear purpose and no two compete for the same term. It keeps your SEO organised and effective.

Why does mapping keywords matter?

Because targeting the same keyword on multiple pages causes cannibalisation — the pages compete and dilute each other. Clear mapping tells Google which page to rank for each term.

How do I map keywords to pages?

List your pages, assign each a primary keyword plus related terms, and check that no two pages target the same main keyword. Where they overlap, merge them or differentiate their focus.

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Written by

Kate, founder of Chronically Online

I help Gold Coast and Brisbane businesses grow with branding, websites and marketing that actually works.

Work with me ✦