Search Intent
Search intent is the underlying goal behind a query, commonly grouped as informational, navigational, commercial, and transactional. It describes what the searcher actually wants, whether that is to learn, find a specific site, compare options, or buy. Matching content to intent is central to ranking and to satisfying users.
Why It Matters
Search and AI engines reward pages that fully satisfy the intent behind a query. Misreading intent means even well-written content underperforms, because the format or angle does not match what the searcher, or the answer engine, expects.
Common Mistake
Targeting a keyword without checking what currently ranks for it. If the results are how-to guides and you publish a product page, you have misjudged intent and will struggle to rank regardless of quality.