Search Intent / SEO Terms Search Intent Search Intent refers to the reason behind a user’s search query—the goal they hope to achieve when they type something into a search engine. Also known as user intent or keyword intent, it helps explain what kind of information the person is looking for and what action they are likely to take next. Understanding search intent is key to delivering the most relevant content, whether the user wants to learn something, make a purchase or find a specific website. There are four primary types of search intent. Informational intent is when users want to learn more about a topic, such as “how does solar energy work.” Navigational intent is when they are looking for a specific site or brand, like “YouTube login” or “Shopify blog.” Transactional intent indicates a desire to take action, usually a purchase, such as “buy noise-cancelling headphones.” A fourth category, commercial investigation, sits between informational and transactional. These users are comparing options and researching before deciding what to buy, with queries like “best CRM for small business.” Recognizing and matching search intent is essential for search engine optimization (SEO) and content strategy. If a user is looking for a quick answer, a long sales page will miss the mark. If they are ready to buy, a blog post may not be persuasive enough. Tailoring content to align with the user’s intent improves engagement, increases conversion rates and helps search engines identify your content as a relevant result. It also builds trust by meeting people where they are in their journey. To succeed with modern SEO, you must think beyond keywords and consider the mindset behind the search.