Definition
Striking distance keywords are search queries where your site ranks close to the top ten, often defined as positions 11–20. This is an SEO working range, not an official Google metric. In Search Console, the number is an average position across impressions, so it does not mean every searcher saw the same ranking.
Why they matter
These queries give you a focused list of pages that already have some visibility. A query with relevant intent and substantial impressions may be worth reviewing. Being near the top ten does not guarantee an easy improvement or more clicks.
Check whether the page answers the query fully. Look for missing explanations, outdated examples and useful internal links from related pages. Prioritize queries that fit your audience rather than chasing position alone.
Where to find them
In Search Console's search performance report, enable average position and review queries in the 11–20 range. Filter by a query and inspect its pages to identify the URL receiving impressions. Keep the date range, country and device consistent when comparing results.
The striking distance analysis in mowteng selects queries whose average position is 11–20 and sorts them by impressions. Treat the output as a shortlist for review, not a forecast.
Ask mowteng
Ask for the query data first, then assess the page before deciding what to change. After an update, compare matching periods to see whether clicks and visibility changed.
Find my queries at average positions 11–20 over the last 28 days, sorted by impressions. For the top five, show which pages receive impressions and their clicks and CTR.