Keywords in SEO here play a pivotal role in boosting your online presence. What truly is an SEO keyword? Here's an in-depth exploration.

In internet marketing, a keyword is a word or phrase that individuals input into web browsers when they are searching for a specific service, product or information. SEO heavily relies on the use of these keywords to rank websites.

The essence behind SEO keywords lies in their ability to associate what users are searching for to the content that is available on your website. Effectively using these keywords will help lure the right audience and improve the likelihood of sales.

Having established the definition of an SEO keyword, let's look at the efficient use of keywords. Improving the use of keywords requires a balance. You want to include relevant keywords to appeal to search algorithms but not overuse your content with them.

One way is to place the keyword in your content’s headline. This not only helps in ranking, but also makes your content more relevant to the searcher's query. Next, consider using keywords in the meta description and headings of your website, as these are points where search engines often look.

Moreover, it's critical to choose keywords that connect with your target audience. This implies understanding their language, their internet search habits and their needs.

To conclude, a well-chosen SEO keyword can be a connection between the user's query and your online content. It's a critical tool to succeed in the aggressive world of digital marketing. However, success hinges on its effective and balanced use.