What is dwell time?

Dwell time is how long a searcher stays on a page after clicking a result before returning to the results page. It reflects whether the content actually satisfied the search.

Why it matters

Rapid returns to the results page suggest the content did not answer the query, while long stays suggest satisfaction. It is a useful lens on content quality even though Google does not publish it as a metric.

How to improve it

Answer the query quickly at the top, then reward the reader with depth, clear structure and internal links worth following.

Why it matters

How to improve it

Answer the query quickly at the top, then reward the reader with depth, clear structure and internal links worth following.

← Back to the glossary

Put it into practice

Run Your Content Marketing in One Place

Awareness Marketing turns these ideas into a weekly workflow: research, writing, publishing and measurement.

See How It Works

Browse the Glossary →