Hi RonnyRaygun,

By "EMD" I assume you mean "Exact Match Domain", right? Just as that label implies, "exact match" means just that, "exact". Otherwise, it is just a domain that contains the keyword, not an "EMD". If the keyword you are targeting is two or more words then you can use hyphens between words and it is just as effective as an EMD.

It is beneficial to have the keyword in the domain, the fewer extra characters the better, and it is better to begin the domain name with the keyword (keyword+suffix). Before going with suffixes, or prefixes, consider alternative TLDs (.org, .net, .info). If alternate TLDs are not available check for variants that contain the keyword (including plurals), or with an extra word, that has decent search volume. This will help you optimize for both keywords simultaneously.

I've used both prefix's and suffix's around specific keywords in some of my domains. One of them is currently ranking #1 for a keyword that gets around 40,500 exact searches per month, so going this route can be beneficial if you're not able to find another TLD for your exact keyword phrase.

The domain with your keyword in it will help, but remember other elements of both on-page and off-page SEO as well. Build a diversified link portfolio, make sure you've got top quality content and give it some time. Of course, you'll have to factor in your 1st page competition as well before you can nab that top spot.