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A search query, or a search term or keyword, is a word or phrase that a user enters into a search engine or database to find information on the Internet or within a specific system. It is the question or topic that the user wants the search engine to provide relevant results for. Search queries are the primary way users interact with search engines to retrieve information, answers, or resources related to their interests or needs.
For example, if someone wants to find information about the weather in a specific city, they might enter the search query “weather forecast [city name]” into a search engine. The search engine then processes the query and presents relevant results, such as weather websites, news articles, or weather services specific to that city.
The search engine aims to understand the user’s intent based on the search query and provide the most relevant and valuable results in response. Search engines use complex algorithms to index web pages and rank them based on relevance to the user’s query, among other factors, to deliver the best possible results.
What is the difference between a search query and keywords?
Keywords are specific words or phrases that represent the main topic of a webpage. Website owners use these words strategically to tell search engines what their content is about. This helps the website appear higher in search results, reaching the right audience. However, keywords stay the same and don’t change based on what people search for.
For example: For a website about healthy recipes, essential keywords might include “nutritious meal ideas,” “healthy cooking tips”, and “balanced diet recipes.”
Search queries are the dynamic phrases users enter into search engines to find specific information. Unlike keywords, search queries are personalized and vary based on individual users entering search engines to find particular information. Unlike keywords, search queries are personalized and vary based on user intent, context, and location. They often include additional words, modifiers, or conversational language to refine the search results and obtain more relevant information.
Example: When users are searching for healthy recipes, their search queries may include “easy and healthy dinner ideas,” “low-carb lunch recipes,” or “quick breakfast options for weight loss.”
Understanding Search Queries: Informational, Navigational, and Transactional
When searching for things on the Internet using search engines, we often use three main search queries: informational, navigational, and transactional. Businesses, content creators, and SEO experts need to know the differences between these search types to better plan their strategies. Let’s make it simpler:
1. Informational Search Queries:
You might use an informational search query When you want to learn about something and learn new stuff. It’s like asking questions to get answers or explanations about a topic you’re curious about.
People use these searches to gain knowledge and insights on various topics they’re interested in.
Example queries:
- How to tie a bowtie.
- What is the capital of Australia?
- Why is the sky blue?
2. Navigational Search Queries:
Navigational search queries happen when people want to visit a particular website or online place. They already know where they want to go, but instead of typing the website’s address directly into the browser, they use a search engine to find it quickly. This is common for well-known websites, or brands they are familiar with, and using a search engine makes it easier for them to get there fast.
Example queries:
- Facebook login.
- YouTube.
- Amazon official website.
Using this method, they’ve turned the search engine into a tool for finding their way to a specific website, which is why it’s called a navigational search query.
3. Transactional Search Queries:
When you search for something online to do something specific, like buying something, signing up for a service, or downloading stuff, it’s called a “transactional search.” This means you’re ready to do something important on the Internet. Businesses and people selling things online should be interested in these searches because they can turn people like you into customers. It’s like an excellent chance to get what you want!
Example queries:
- Buy iPhone 13 Pro Max online.
- Best web hosting services 2023.
- Download Adobe Photoshop free trial.
Since these searches are mostly about buying and selling things, e-commerce websites specifically aim for them.
Need a helping hand to improve your chances in search engine results and help figure out where to start? Get in touch with us for a complimentary strategy session. Benefit from our expertise as we offer valuable insights and a custom-made plan, empowering you to stay ahead of the competition in the ever-competitive world of SERPs.
About the Author
My name’s Semil Shah, and I pride myself on being the last digital marketer that you’ll ever need. Having worked internationally across agile and disruptive teams from San Fransico to London, I can help you take what you are doing in digital to a whole next level.