How do informational queries differ from transactional queries?

Informational queries are primarily focused on acquiring knowledge or information. Users who engage in this type of query are typically looking for facts, definitions, or explanations about a particular topic without intending to perform an action beyond gathering that information. For example, a user might search for "What is the capital of France?" to learn something new.

On the other hand, transactional queries indicate a user's intent to perform a specific action, such as making a purchase, booking a service, or completing a task. An example of a transactional query would be "buy a flight to Paris," where the user is looking to engage in an activity that results in a specific outcome, such as acquiring a product or service.

Thus, the distinction lies in the user's intent: informational queries aim solely to seek knowledge, while transactional queries are directed towards accomplishing a specific transaction. This understanding of user intent is crucial in areas such as search engine optimization and online marketing, as it helps in catering to each type of query effectively. Identifying this difference is important for improving user experience and targeting the right content to meet users' needs.