Definition:
A query is a question or query that is made to obtain information. In the context of the Internet, especially search engines, a query refers to each individual query that a user enters to search for information on the web. In computer terms, a query is a precise request to extract data from a database or information system.
It is important not to confuse this term with Query Language, which is a programming language used to perform database queries, or with jQuery, a JavaScript library that facilitates the interaction between JavaScript and HTML.
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What is a query?
A query can be a word or strings of words(query strings)that are entered into the search box of a search engine to access the information contained in the web. A query is usually accompanied by some sets of letters and other specific operators, such as Booleans, which facilitate its function.
This query or query can be done on a page that is a search engine in itself, such as Google, Yahoo or Bing, or on an internal engine, on-site,always from any device.
Search query analysis
The study of search queries is very valuable for general marketing studies and, above all, to optimize SEM. In addition, a study of the internal queries of a given site is very useful to better understand the users of the web and contrast if what they are looking for corresponds to what it offers.
Studying a website’s internal queries allows owners to better understand their users and evaluate whether the content offered aligns with visitors’ needs and expectations. This analysis can reveal patterns of user behavior, helping to improve content strategy and increase site relevance.
Types of query in search engines
In the context of search engines, we can classify queries as follows:
- Informational queries: The user is looking for general information on a topic or product. They constitute the majority of searches and often do not have a direct commercial purpose.
- Navigation queries: the user knows where the information is or where he wants to go (for example: “Facebook”, “Gmail”). Navigation queries are an alternative to shortcuts.
- Transactional queries: Queries that suggest the intention to achieve a particular action (e.g. “buy flowers”, “game downloads”; “coupon for…”).
Difference from query or query-string in databases
Do not confuse a query in a search engine with a query or query-string in a database.
When we talk about querys related to databases, a query or query-string is a request to a database. In the case of a query to a mysql database that has the following format:
SELECT columna_a_seleccionar FROM tabla_a_seleccionar WHERE aplican_ciertas_condiciones
This query-string searches the database for a column in a table where a certain condition is met.
Frequently asked questions about Query
What is Query?
Definition: A query is a question or query that is made to obtain information. In the context of the Internet, especially search engines, a query refers to each individual query that a user enters to search for information on the web. In the Arimetrics glossary it is placed in a digital marketing context to clarify its role, uses and practical implications.
What is Query used for in digital marketing?
It is used to better analyse an action, tool, channel or behaviour related to acquisition, measurement, communication, sales or user experience. Its value depends on applying it to a concrete decision.
How is Query related to a digital strategy?
It is related to digital strategy when it affects objectives, data, content, technology, campaigns or conversion processes. That is why it should be reviewed together with the business context, not as an isolated term.
What should be considered when working with Query?
It is advisable to review its definition, context, associated metrics, limitations and possible risks. It is also useful to validate whether the concept has a real impact on performance, user experience or decision-making.