Spelling errors are common in search queries (Cucerzan & Brill, 2004), and providing spelling suggestions and corrections can be an important tool to support query reformulation. Search interfaces suggest corrections by accounting for the initial query and its subsequent queries. Typically, alternative suggestions are presented next to the original query and at the bottom of the list of retrieved documents. 

Spelling Suggestions and Corrections

Automated term suggestions are used to augment or expand the initial query terms. Term suggestions do not require input from users, and can be derived from different sources (e.g., relevant retrieved results; Anick, 2003). Users generally appreciate automated term suggestions as they do not need to select or replace terms themselves for query reformulation.

Automated Term Suggestions

When a user makes a search request, the search is saved in a search activity log. Such logs provide an insight to popular searches and destination websites associated with certain search words and are able to reconstruct the user’s search words so that users reach their destination quicker. A successful reconstruction is based on how long the user browses the final destination and the actions the user might take.

Suggesting  Popular Destinations

Users often become reluctant to modify their query terms when their initial query is unsuccessful. Therefore, search interfaces need to provide helpful query alternatives to aid users. Previous research has suggested several methods to support query reformulation.

University of Rochester

Users often go through a cycle of query reformulation, which means they start with an initial query, make changes to the query if they do not find the desired information, and repeat this cycle until users are satisfied. 

Query Reformulation

Hearst, M. A. (2009). Search user interfaces. Cambridge University Press. [https://searchuserinterfaces.com/book/]

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