Topic analysis and identification of queries

Abstract

This chapter emphasizes topic analysis and identification of search engine user queries. Topic analysis and identification of queries is an important task related to the discipline of information retrieval which is a key element for the development of successful personalized search engines. Topic identification of text is also no simple task, and a problem yet unsolved. The problem is even harder for search engine user queries due to real-time requirements and the limited number of terms in the user queries. The chapter includes a detailed literature review on topic analysis and identification, with an emphasis on search engine user queries, a survey of the analytical methods that have been and can be used, and the challenges and research opportunities related to topic analysis and identification. © 2009, IGI Global.