Query

A query is a request for information from a data system. The term is especially commonly used in connection with search engines and databases. In web search, a query refers to what a user types into the search box – a combination of words or questions based on which Google, Bing, and others deliver relevant results.

In Search Engine Optimization (SEO), queries are of central importance. They provide insight into what users are specifically searching for, what intentions they have, and how content should be tailored accordingly. There is a distinction between navigational, informational, and transactional queries, depending on whether a user wants to access something specific, gather information, or take action (e.g., making a purchase).

A simple example: If someone types "best espresso machine 2024" into Google, it is an informational query with a clear purchase intent. For businesses, it is crucial to structure their content in a way that directly addresses such queries – for example, through product reviews, comparisons, or guide articles.

In database systems like SQL, a query refers to a structured request that allows specific records to be queried, filtered, or modified. In both contexts – search and databases – the goal of the query is always to find relevant information quickly and efficiently.

For marketers, SEOs, and developers, understanding queries is essential as they enable access to data and audience needs – whether through web analytics, content strategies, or structured data queries.