Everyone wants to build up comprehensive keyword lists for their industry that don't miss any important variations. But building good keyword lists takes time, imagination, and practice. With that in mind, here's some pointers to help you stay ahead in the word mining game.

1 - Use Different Tools - even free ones

If you're only using one keyword tool, you're missing out. Different keyword programs and tools will give you slightly different results. I use a number of different programs and online services (free and paid) to build my keyword lists.

Best of the paid tools:

Keywords Analyzer
Keyword Elite
WordTracker

Even if you've got these tools - don't limit yourself. Give the free tools a chance too. They might hint at some important new ideas for keywords that will prove profitable.

Best of the free tools

Google Keyword Tool
Good Keywords
Thesaurus.com

2 - AND... Don't use ANY tools!

When you start keyword lists, it's vital that you don't over-rely on your keyword finding gadgets. Start off with the world's most powerful computer - your brain! Really drill down and work the common sense keywords that people will be using.

Think laterally. Think like a customer - not a product owner! Think about the problems the product solves. Grow your list from there. Use your vocabulary and stretch your mind to get every keyphrase you can on your own - and then start using the research tools.

The real benefit is that while your competitors are using the same keyword tools you are, they definitely don't have your brain! Come up with original phrases and you'll profit big time.

3 - Plurals - obvious but often overlooked!

A basic trick here but are you sure you've added an s or an ies to the end of each of your keyphrases? Always make sure you've included plural variations wherever you can in your list. Many people miss this crucial step - a step that can really increase a keyword list's size.

4 - Use forums to find more variations

A neat trick! You might think you have a good grasp on an industry, but wait till you hear how your customers are really talking about it. Search Google for

forums mp3 player

and read some of the forum posts and threads. Make notes of things like relevant brands, lingo, and any variations on the keywords you are interested in. This is a great way to really find the keywords everyday people are using. And it's free!

5 - Product names

People search for product names, brand names and model numbers. It makes sense to do some research into the relevant products in your industry. If you're promoting a PC mouse product, look for competing mouse products. It might be profitable to bid on those product names too.

Above all, give enough time to your keyword list initially and then go back to it over time and see if you can add any new phrases. Putting in the effort with a keyword list will pay back your investment a thousand times over.

Good luck and happy keyword hunting!