How to Use Regex in Google Search Console to Discover High-Intent Long-Tail Keywords

Finding high-intent long-tail keywords can significantly improve your SEO strategy. One of the most efficient ways to uncover them is by using Regular Expressions (Regex) in Google Search Console (GSC). This method allows you to filter queries based on word count, position, and structure.

Why Target Long-Tail Keywords?

? Lower Competition – Easier to rank for compared to short-tail keywords. ? Higher Conversion Rates – Matches precise user intent. ? Stronger Content Opportunities – Helps address niche queries with detailed content.

Now, let’s explore how to find long-tail keywords using regex in Google Search Console.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Long-Tail Keywords Using Regex

1?? Open Google Search Console - https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/4c261111-2c53-47c4-a7b3-476917c0f48f

Navigate to Google Search Console and access the website property you want to analyze.

2?? Go to Performance Report

Click on Performance → This section provides data on search queries, impressions, and clicks.

3?? Apply a Custom Regex Filter

• Click New → Select Query
• Choose Custom (regex) from the dropdown menu
• Enter the regex based on your desired keyword length:

4?? Analyze the Results

Apply the filter and review the search queries that match your regex. Look for patterns in user intent and potential content opportunities.

Understanding the Regex Pattern

?? ([^" "]*\s){2,}? → Captures queries with at least three words. ?? {6,} → Ensures only phrases with more than six spaces (which separate words) are included. ?? Adjust {3,} to find 4+ word queries, {4,} for 5+ words, and so on.

Additional Regex Tricks for SEO

Extract Question-Based Queries

To filter question-based queries like "who, what, why, how," use:

^(who|what|why|how|when|where)\s        

Find Queries Starting with a Specific Keyword

For example, to find all queries starting with "SEO":

^SEO\s        

Identify Queries Ending with a Specific Keyword

To locate queries that end with "guide":

guide$        

Final Thoughts

Using regex in Google Search Console allows you to refine your SEO strategy by identifying high-intent, long-tail keywords. Whether you’re targeting 3-word phrases or longer, this approach helps you uncover valuable search queries with ease.