Keyword Stemming: Is It A Google Ranking Factor?

Keyword stemming, once a popular search engine optimization tactic, has become an antiquated practice as search algorithms advance. This article explores how keyword stemming emerged, why it worked initially, and how modern best practices focus on comprehensively answering user questions rather than gaming the system. The Claim: Keyword Stemming As A Ranking FactorThe claims around keyword stemming suggest that modifying key terms can help a page rank for more queries. The Evidence For Keyword Stemming As A Ranking FactorKeyword stemming is one of the oldest confirmed updates to Google’s algorithm, dating back to 2003. Keyword Stemming Is Definitely Not A Ranking FactorWhile Google can recognize keyword “stems,” and use them to return more relevant results, it’s inaccurate to call keyword stemming a ranking factor.