When you search a term on Google, you’re probably looking for a solution or an answer to a question. You should ask yourself as you plan to write a blog:
- Why would a user want to search for a specific term?
- Do they want to learn?
- Do they want to make a purchase?
- Are they hunting for a website with specific features?
Google’s main aim is to provide the most relevant information about the search term entered. If your blog doesn’t address the issue promised in the title, the user will leave your site immediately.
Google identifies four types of search intents.
Search Intent | Definition | Examples |
Informational | The searcher is looking for knowledge. It could be a simple question or a complex question that needs a detailed answer. | Which is the largest country? Directions to X airport Champions league scores |
Navigational | The searcher is looking for a particular blog. They’re either unsure of the URL or don’t want to type the whole address. | Twitter Copysmiths’ blog writing guidelines Latest News X channel |
Transactional | The user desires to make a purchase. They know what they want, and they need little guidance to get it. | Top hotel in Australia Buy iPhone 12 Cheapest Nike shoes |
Commercial investigation | The searcher is still looking for the right product or service and wants to read more about it or look at reviews. | Best gaming laptop Hiring a full-time writer vs. content writing agency X product reviews |
Google penalisation for missing intent occurs when your article title impliesnavigational intent, and your content focuses on transactional or informational intent.
Once the user clicks on your article, and they leave immediately, Google notices they’re disappointed that you didn’t offer a solution to their problem.
Look at how Google gives the top positions to listicle blog articles when searching for the best SEO tools