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Core concept · Search

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Definition

Intent classification is the process by which AI systems categorize a user’s query into intent types — informational, navigational, transactional, or commercial investigation — to determine the most appropriate response format and source type. Intent classification shapes which content gets cited for which queries. AI systems match content type to query intent: informational queries favor comprehensive definitions and explanations; commercial investigation queries favor comparison content and authoritative reviews; transactional queries favor direct product or service descriptions. Brands that map their content to specific intent types — rather than producing generic content that aims to cover all intents — build more precisely targeted citation opportunities.

Search intent

Conversational query

User intent

Intent matching

AEO

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