A web search query is the plain text a user enters into a search engine to find information, differing significantly from structured command languages. These queries primarily fall into three categories: informational (seeking broad knowledge), navigational (finding a specific website), and transactional (intending to perform an action).

Early research, such as a 2001 Excite study, revealed that queries were typically short, averaging 2.4 terms, with most users examining only the first one or two pages of results and rarely using advanced search features. Interestingly, a 2005 Yahoo study found that one-third of queries were repeat searches, indicating users frequently revisit information, a pattern also noted by Bing.

The nature of queries has evolved, with a 2011 study noting an increase in average query length over time, particularly for non-English searches. To address this shift towards longer, more conversational queries, Google implemented its Hummingbird update in August 2013.