AI Search Intent
Definition: The purpose behind a user's query to an AI assistant, informing what type of response they expect.
AI search intent describes what users want when they query AI assistants. Understanding intent helps you create content that matches what AI needs to answer those queries.
Types of AI Search Intent
Informational
User wants to learn or understand something.
- “What is [concept]?”
- “How does [thing] work?”
- “Explain [topic]“
Comparison
User wants to evaluate options.
- “Compare [A] vs [B]”
- “What are the differences between…”
- “Which is better, [X] or [Y]?”
Recommendation
User wants a suggestion.
- “What’s the best [category]?”
- “Recommend a [tool] for [use case]”
- “What should I use for…”
Transactional
User wants to take action.
- “How do I sign up for [product]?”
- “What’s the pricing for…”
- “How do I get started with…”
Optimizing for AI Intent
For Informational Queries
Create comprehensive explanatory content with clear definitions and examples.
For Comparison Queries
Build honest comparison pages that help AI contrast options fairly.
For Recommendation Queries
Establish clear positioning for specific use cases and audiences.
For Transactional Queries
Ensure pricing, signup, and getting-started information is easily accessible.
Intent and Content Strategy
Map your content to cover all intent types relevant to your brand:
| Intent | Content Type |
|---|---|
| Informational | Guides, explainers, definitions |
| Comparison | Versus pages, feature comparisons |
| Recommendation | Use case pages, audience-specific content |
| Transactional | Pricing, docs, getting started guides |
Understanding AI search intent helps you create content that AI uses to answer the full range of customer questions.