Skip to content
← SEO Dictionary

Search intent

Search intent is the task someone is trying to complete with a query: learning, comparing, finding or buying.

The task behind a query

  1. Learn · “What is ROAS?”
  2. Compare · “ROAS vs ROI”
  3. Buy · “buy shoes”
  4. Local · “shoes near me”
Illustrative queries, not search-demand data. Intent categories can overlap.

How it works

Match query wording, visible results and visitor needs with a suitable page.

Example

Example: “How does ROAS work” needs an explanation, while “PPC agency” may need a service and selection criteria.

Common mistakes

A query can have mixed intent; do not classify it mechanically.

How can you check this in practice?

Read the query alongside current results and real visitor questions. For “price”, establish whether the person wants a product, comparison or service budget. A page should answer the most likely need first without hiding purchase conditions.

Distinctions and limitations

Informational and commercial intent can coexist in a query. Classification is a working interpretation, not an official search-engine label. Changes in results may call for changes in the content offered.

Official sources

Editorial responsibility: Martin Zhelyazkov · Founder of Z-Consult

Updated: 05/11/2026

For a correction or question: office@z-consult.bg