When people type something into Google, they usually have a reason behind it. Search engines sort these searches into three main types: navigational, transactional, and informational.
But what is informational queries in SEO, and why does it matter for rankings and content strategy?
Informational queries happen when someone is looking for knowledge, answers, or explanations—not shopping or trying to find a specific website. These searches often start with “how,” “why,” or “what,” like “how does SEO work” or “history of artificial intelligence.”
If you’re in digital marketing or running a business, knowing what is informational queries in SEO can help you create content that ranks well and brings in organic traffic.
GetFound is here to show you what they are, why they matter, and how you can use them to get more eyes on your content.
Understanding What is Informational Queries in SEO
To fully grasp what is informational queries in SEO, it’s important to break it down into its key components.
1. Definition of Informational Queries
Informational queries are search queries in which users seek factual information, answers, or educational content.
These searches do not have a direct commercial intent, meaning users are not necessarily looking to buy something. Instead, they want to learn or research a topic.
2. Characteristics of Informational Queries
- Question-Based Format
Many informational queries include “what,” “how,” “why,” or “best ways to” in their phrasing.
- Non-Transactional Intent
Users are not looking to make a purchase but rather to gain knowledge or insights.
- Broad or Specific Topics
Informational searches can be broad (e.g., “What is SEO?”) or specific (e.g., “How does Google’s algorithm work?”).
- High Search Volume
Since people frequently search for educational and informative content, informational queries often generate high organic traffic.
For example, a search query like “How to improve website speed” is an informational query because the user is looking for guidance or a tutorial rather than a product to buy.
By targeting these queries, websites can attract large audiences, establish authority, and drive engagement through valuable content.
Examples of Informational Queries
Understanding what is informational queries in SEO involves recognizing different types of informational searches.
Here are some examples:
General Knowledge Queries:
- “What is digital marketing?”
- “History of artificial intelligence”
How-To Guides & Tutorials:
- “How to write an SEO-friendly blog post”
- “How to train a dog to sit”
Explanations & Definitions:
- “Why is keyword research important in SEO?”
- “What is blockchain technology?”
Health & Wellness Queries:
- “Benefits of intermittent fasting”
- “Best exercises for weight loss”
Science & Technology Topics:
- “How do solar panels generate electricity?”
- “What are the different types of machine learning?”
By understanding these examples, content creators can develop targeted informational content that matches user intent and improves search rankings.
Why Informational Queries Matter in SEO
After understanding what is informational queries in SEO, it’s essential to explore their importance for SEO strategies.
1. Increases Organic Traffic
- Informational queries often have high search volume, meaning ranking for them can drive significant organic traffic to a website.
- Users searching for informational content are more likely to stay on a website longer, reducing bounce rates and improving SEO metrics.
2. Establishes Website Authority
- Creating high-quality informational content positions a website as an industry leader and authoritative source.
- Google favors websites that consistently provide valuable, informative content.
3. Increases Chances of Earning Featured Snippets
- Many informational queries trigger featured snippets or People Also Ask (PAA) results in search engines.
- Optimizing content for clear, concise answers increases the chances of appearing in these high-visibility positions.
4. Supports Other SEO Strategies
- Informational content helps with internal linking, improving site structure and user navigation.
- Blog posts that are full of information can attract backlinks, improving a website’s overall domain authority.
By targeting informational queries, businesses can attract, educate, and convert visitors into loyal audiences over time.
Also Read: Make Your Online Presence Rise and Rise by Understanding the Importance of Open Graph Meta Tags!
Improving Content for Informational Queries
Since what is informational queries in SEO focuses on educational content, optimizing for these searches requires a strategic approach.
1. Conduct Keyword Research for Informational Queries
- Use SEO tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and SEMrush to identify high-volume informational keywords.
- Look for keywords with question-based formats (e.g., “How does SEO work?”).
- Analyze People Also Ask (PAA) boxes for commonly searched questions.
2. Create High-Quality, Comprehensive Content
- Answer queries directly in the first 100 words to increase chances of ranking for featured snippets.
- Use a clear, structured format with headings (H1, H2, H3) to improve readability.
- Provide examples, case studies, or statistics to add credibility to the content.
3. Use Schema Markup for Better Visibility
- Implement FAQ schema to increase the likelihood of appearing in rich results.
- Use structured data to help search engines understand the content’s intent.
4. Optimize for Voice Search
- Many informational queries are conducted through voice search (e.g., “What’s the best way to lose weight?”).
- Write in a natural, conversational tone to match voice search patterns.
- Answer questions concisely within 30-40 words to optimize for voice search results.
5. Improve Internal Linking & Navigation
- Link to related articles to keep users engaged and improve SEO rankings.
- Ensure content is easily accessible through a well-organized site structure.
By following these optimization strategies, websites can rank higher for informational queries, increase visibility, and improve user engagement.
Got SEO Questions? GetFound Has the Answers!
What is informational queries in SEO? Simply put, these are searches where people are looking for answers, explanations, or knowledge—not products or specific websites.
They’re a big deal in SEO because they bring in tons of organic traffic, help establish your site as an authority, and boost your chances of landing in featured snippets and People Also Ask results.
To make the most of informational queries, focus on keyword research, create well-structured content, use schema markup, optimize for voice search, and ensure smooth site navigation.
By doing this, you’ll attract a larger audience, build trust, and improve search rankings—all leading to long-term SEO success.
Not sure where to start? Let GetFound handle the heavy lifting while you watch your rankings soar! Visit us today and take the stress out of SEO.
