User intent is the motive or objective behind a search query. Identifying it helps you choose suitable keywords and create content that answers what visitors actually need. section 11.2.5
Match your page to the searcher's likely goal:
- Navigational intent: The user wants to reach a particular website, page, product, or recipe. section 11.2.5
- Informational intent: The user wants knowledge or instructions, such as learning how to tie a fishing knot. section 11.2.5
- Investigation intent: The user is comparing options before choosing a product or action, such as researching the best bass fishing lures. section 11.2.5
- Transactional intent: The user is ready to buy a product or service. section 11.2.5
Choose content that fits the goal
If most people searching for a fishing term want methods, equipment, or nearby locations, publish a thorough educational article rather than only a product page. Accurate, polished answers are more likely to satisfy visitors and perform well in search. section 11.2.5
Search systems interpret intent through meaning and relationships between words, not keyword matching alone. Semantically related terms and thorough topical coverage can help clarify whether content addresses the query. section 11.2.4
