How to Add Keywords to YouTube Videos and Channels (2026)
Research first
Use the YouTube Keyword Tool to harvest live autocomplete phrases. Prefer one primary keyword and several supporting longtails with solid Keyword Score and relevancy.
Video title
Put the primary keyword early (first ~60 characters). Stay under 100 characters. Avoid stuffing - clarity still wins clicks in 2026.
Description
Front-load the first 125 characters with the topic and primary phrase. Expand with natural longtails, timestamps, and related questions from the Question Keyword Tool.
Channel keywords
In channel advanced settings, add niche phrases that define your channel - not every video topic. Keep them consistent with the content you publish weekly.
Character limits
Verify lengths with the Word Counter and Character Counter. Full SEO playbook: YouTube SEO Guide 2026.