Amazon gives you 250 bytes (about 50-60 characters) for backend search terms. Most sellers waste this space or leave it empty. Here's how to use it effectively.
What Are Backend Search Terms?
Hidden keywords in Seller Central that Amazon indexes for search but doesn't display to customers. They're for keywords that don't fit naturally in your visible copy.
What to Include
- Misspellings: "smartwatch" vs "smart watch" vs "smart watch"
- Alternate phrases: "gift for dad" if your product makes a good gift
- Complementary terms: "yoga mat" for a yoga towel
- Foreign language terms: If relevant to your audience
What NOT to Include
- Your brand name (already in title)
- ASINs or competitor ASINs
- Your own product titles
- Irrelevant terms
- Repeat keywords across multiple fields
Pro Tips
- No commas or punctuation needed — just spaces
- Don't stuff. 250 bytes is small. Be strategic.
- Update seasonally. "Christmas gift" in Q4, not year-round.