Here is my SEO Strategy using free tools. Please let me know your thoughts and suggestions if any.

I am using Google Keyword Planner (GKP) as it seems like the best free & closest tool to Google Search Engine.

For example, I am doing KW research for different kinds of pickles.

When I type in pickles in the GKP, it shows me 1 or 2 word keywords that have volume of 10k-100k monthly search volume. However, this as per my knowledge is general and not very specific or long enough to decide yet.

So I go further in and type the flavour of pickle. Eg - Mango Pickle.

Mango Pickle gives me 3 to 4 good KW's with high search volume.

But when I search for another flavour like Methia Keri Pickle, I get close to 0 searches or Keywords. I tried a few variations in this to get some keyword out but nothing popped up. So here in this case, is there another way of doing KW Research or should i use general terms that are not very transactional (i.e. broad term) like pickles.

When using the word pickles, I do not know which flavour the customer prefers but it is closest to my keyword. I can use this same word "pickles" in my local language or local lingo too but is it the right way to move forward?

Other general strategies I am using with GKP are -

1. Only include KW's with more than 1k avg. monthly search volumes.
2. Take more specific words and less general words.
3. Try different variations of the same word.
4. If specific keywords have very low search volume, shift to more general and broad keywords at category level instead of sub-category level.

Should i be doing anything more?

Please note that i am an SEO beginner and do not have a lot of time to invest in SEO. I do take out as much time as possible and want to make good use of the time i allot for SEO hence posting it here. Would love to know the communities thought on the above.