The 13 Types of Informational Intent in Search Queries

1. Tactical Intent – Action-Oriented Queries

Tactical intent involves queries where users are looking for practical, step-by-step guidance. They want actionable advice they can implement immediately.

Example: “How to rank quicker on Google.”

How to address it:

Create detailed guides, checklists, or tutorials. Use headings, bullet points, and visuals to make the steps clear and actionable. For example, a blog titled "7 Ways to Boost Your SEO Rankings This Week" would directly address this intent.

2. Foundational Intent – Make It Simple

Foundational queries are about understanding complex ideas or concepts in a simplified, digestible way. These types of searches often signal curiosity or a need for learning

Example: “What is semantic Search Optimization?”



How to address it:
Write beginner-friendly explainer articles. Use plain language, visual aids like infographics, and analogies if needed. For instance, a post like "Semantic SEO Explained in 5 Minutes" works well here.

3. Platform-Specific Intent – Niche-Focused Search Terms

These queries revolve around specific platforms, tools, or systems. Users are looking for tailored solutions within a niche environment.

Example: “SEO for DUDA sites.”



How to address it:
Develop content that focuses on the nuances of the platform. Highlight challenges and opportunities unique to that platform. For instance, a blog post like "How to Optimize DUDA for SEO Success" is targeted and actionable.

4. Comparative Intent – Evaluating Options

Comparative queries seek to assess the pros and cons of different choices. Users want to make informed decisions.

Example: “DUDA vs. WordPress for SEO.”

How to address it:
Create side-by-side comparisons with honest insights. Use tables, pros and cons lists, and real-world examples. A title like “DUDA or WordPress for SEO? Here’s What You Should Know” invites clicks and engagement.

5. Problem-Solving Intent – Addressing Pain Points

Problem-solving queries arise when users are facing specific challenges and actively searching for solutions.

Example: “How to fix a broken sitemap.”

How to address it:
Write troubleshooting guides or FAQs. Offer practical, step-by-step solutions with screenshots or videos. A blog titled "5 Easy Steps to Fix Your Broken Sitemap" is a great example.

6. Exploratory Intent – Broad Research

Users with exploratory intent are in the early stages of learning, researching broadly before narrowing down their focus.

Example: “What’s the future of AI in SEO?”

How to address it:
Create well-researched, thought-provoking content. Include wide-ranging insights, expert opinions, and data. A long-form article like "Exploring AI’s Impact on the Future of SEO" fits perfectly.

7. Validation Intent – Confirming Choices

Validation queries occur when users seek confirmation about a decision they’re about to make.

Example: “Is Yext worth it?”

How to address it:
Offer honest reviews, case studies, or comparison blogs. Build credibility by addressing both strengths and limitations. For instance, a blog like "Is Yext The Right Local Search Tool for You?" targets this intent effectively.

8. Inspirational Intent – Motivating Content

Inspirational queries aim to motivate, excite, or provide hope. Readers want stories or ideas that spark action.

Example: “Success stories in local SEO.”

How to address it:
Publish compelling success stories or motivational content. Highlight real-world results with emotional appeal. A headline like "How Small Businesses Achieved Big Wins with Local SEO" will capture attention.

9. Localized Intent – Location-Based Searches

Localized queries have a geographic focus, targeting information specific to a place or region.



Example: “Best SEO Marketing Agency near me.”

How to address it:
Enhance your local SEO. Include information about your location, customer reviews, and services specific to the region. For example, a blog called "Why We’re the Leading SEO Marketing Agency in Atlanta" would hit the mark.

10. Educational/Skill-Building Intent – Learning Something New

These queries are for users looking to improve their knowledge or learn new skills.

Example: “SEO tips for beginners.”

How to address it:
Develop beginner-friendly guides, courses, or tutorials. Break down the basics and include examples. A blog like "10 Beginner SEO Tips to Jumpstart Your Website" is ideal.

11. Future-Oriented Intent – Predictive Searches

Future-oriented queries focus on what’s next, often in rapidly-evolving fields like technology and marketing.

Example: “How SEO will change in over the next 5 Years”

How to address it:
Write forward-looking pieces with expert predictions and trend analysis. A title like "5 SEO Predictions Business Owners Need to Know for the next 5 Years" is highly engaging.

12. Contextual Intent – Related Concepts

Users with contextual intent want to understand how different ideas or topics relate to each other.

Example: “How SEO affects PPC campaigns.”

How to address it:
Publish content that connects the dots. Explain the relationships and provide actionable takeaways. For instance, "The Intersection of SEO and PPC: A Guide to Holistic Marketing" is on-target.

13. ROI/Performance-Based Intent – Results-Driven Queries

ROI-focused queries are driven by a need to see proof of performance or value.

Example: “How SEO increased our leads by 50%.”

How to address it:
Highlight case studies, testimonials, and data-backed results. Use visuals like graphs and before-and-after scenarios. A blog like "How Our Clients Saw a 50% Boost in Revenue with SEO" shows your value clearly.