Keyword intent (search intent) refers to the purpose behind a user's search query, reflecting what they aim to accomplish through their search. Understanding keyword intent is crucial for creating content that aligns with the user's needs and stage in the buying journey.
Semrush categorizes keyword intent into four types:
| Intent | Symbol | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Informational | I | Users seek information, answers, or knowledge on a specific topic. | “how to bake a cake” “what is SEO” |
| Navigational | N | Users intend to visit a specific website or webpage. | “facebook login” “home depot credit card login” |
| Commercial | C | Users investigate brands or services before making a purchase decision, often comparing options. | “best 5G smartphone” “best budget leaf blowers” |
| Transactional | T | Users are ready to complete an action or purchase, often using words that indicate an intent to buy or download. | “buy iPhone 13” “download Photoshop” |
By identifying the intent behind keywords, you can create content that better satisfies user needs, leading to higher engagement, conversions, and search engine rankings.
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