What term describes the goal a user has when they enter a query?

The term that accurately describes the goal a user has when entering a query is "User Intent." This concept encompasses the underlying reason or purpose behind a user's search, reflecting what they hope to achieve with their query. Understanding user intent is crucial in search engine optimization and information retrieval, as it helps tailor search results to be more relevant and useful for the user.

While "Query Intent" and "Search Goal" might seem similar, they lack the comprehensive recognition of user motivation that "User Intent" embodies. “User Objective” may also suggest goals, but it does not specifically focus on the intent as it relates to search behavior. Recognizing this distinction is vital for effective search engine rating and understanding how to best meet the users' needs through appropriate content delivery.