AI Interpretation of Vague Queries

Testing AI with a “real” vague query and comparing how Gemini, ChatGPT and Copilot interpret intent, prioritize data and provide answers

An experiment designed to replicate a behaviour of a specific type of user or client looking for a service without having detailed knowledge. This type of user has limited information and expects a clear recommendation but often uses vague terms like “best,” which can mean different things—top-rated, most popular, most cost-effective, etc. The goal is not only to see how different AI models handle this ambiguity, process limited and non-specific input, and turn it into concrete, useful output, but also to retro-feed us with their observations on how and why models interpret intent, prioritize data, and deal with unclear evaluation criteria.

Question 1: Which is the best SEO agency in Spain?

Google Gemini

Highly-Regarded SEO Agencies in Spain:

  • Delante
  • Ninja Promo
  • Minty Digital
  • AWISEE
  • Rodanet
  • Estudio34
  • BIGSEO
  • SEOCOM
  • iSocialWeb

Sources Used:

  • Clutch.co
  • Sortlist.com
  • Konigle.com
  • Semrush Agency Partners
  • HubSpot Ecosystem
  • GoodFirms.co
  • DesignRush.com
  • TechBehemoths.com
  • SE Ranking Agency Catalog
  • Agency Websites (e.g., Delante, Ninja Promo, Minty Digital, AWISEE, Rodanet, Estudio34, BIGSEO, SEOCOM, iSocialWeb)
  • Industry Blogs and “Best Of” Lists (as found through general search engine queries)

ChatGPT

Best SEO Agencies in Spain (2025)

Based on current rankings and expert reviews, here are the top SEO agencies in Spain:

  • iSocialWeb
  • Flat 101
  • Wanatop
  • La Teva Web
  • Rodanet
  • Human Level
  • Bigseo
  • Internet República
  • ROI UP Group
  • Dobuss
  • Amarillo Limón
  • Minty Digital
  • Eskimoz
  • Awisee
  • Avidalia
  • Estudio34

Sources used:

  • Las 50 mejores agencias SEO de España del 2025 – Huffington Post
  • La Teva Web: estrategia, diseño y tecnología – El País
  • Rodanet – Agencia SEO y marketing digital – El País
  • Best SEO Agencies in Spain – Clutch
  • Top 6 SEO Agencies in Spain – Tech Behemoths

Copilot

🔝 Top SEO Agencies in Spain (2025)

  • NeoAttack (Madrid)
  • Dobuss (Córdoba)
  • Internet República (Madrid)
  • BigSEO (Barcelona)
  • Human Level (Alicante)
  • Eskimoz (International, with presence in Spain)
  • iSocialWeb (Barcelona) – Highly regarded for its data-driven strategy, strong client portfolio (e.g., Desigual, Leroy Merlin), and proprietary SEO tools like Growwer.

🔍 Sources Used

  • Clutch.co – Top SEO Companies in Spain (Jun 2025)
  • GoodFirms – Best SEO Companies in Spain (Jun 2025)
  • Sortlist – The 10 Best SEO Agencies in Spain (2025)
  • The Manifest – Best SEO Companies in Spain (Jun 2025)
  • Marketing4eCommerce – Top SEO Agencies in Spain (2024)

Question 2: Compare these answers to the same question. Explain why the answers differ in data sources, update time, interpretation, or model bias.

Gemini

The answers provided by Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and Copilot for “Which is the best SEO agency in Spain?” differ significantly in their recommendations and the sources they cite. Here’s an analysis of why these differences exist:

1. Data Sources:

  • Google Gemini: Casts a very wide net for its sources, including general industry platforms like Clutch.co, Sortlist.com, GoodFirms.co, DesignRush.com, and TechBehemoths.com, alongside specific agency catalogs (Semrush, SE Ranking, HubSpot) and direct agency websites. This broad approach aims for comprehensiveness but can lead to a less curated list.
  • ChatGPT: Relies on a mix of general review sites (Clutch, TechBehemoths) and more specific, potentially editorialized “best of” lists from media outlets like Huffington Post and El País. The inclusion of specific articles from news outlets suggests it might be pulling from published rankings or analyses.
  • Copilot: Primarily uses well-known review platforms (Clutch.co, GoodFirms, Sortlist, The Manifest) which are often updated, and also cites Marketing4eCommerce, a marketing news site. It also provides more detail on why a specific agency (iSocialWeb) is “highly regarded,” indicating it might be processing more granular information from its sources.

Why they differ: The choice of data sources is a primary driver of differing results. Each platform aggregates information differently, and some sources might prioritize certain metrics (e.g., number of reviews, overall rating, specific case studies, editorial judgment).

2. Update Time:

  • Google Gemini: Doesn’t explicitly state an update time for its overall list, but its sources are generally dynamic platforms that are continuously updated.
  • ChatGPT: Explicitly mentions “Best SEO Agencies in Spain (2025)” and cites “Las 50 mejores agencias SEO de España del 2025 – Huffington Post,” suggesting it’s drawing from a recent, potentially forward-looking, assessment.
  • Copilot: Also specifies “(2025)” and includes “Jun 2025 Rankings” from Clutch.co and GoodFirms, indicating a very recent data refresh.

Why they differ: While all models claim to offer 2025 data, the exact refresh rate of their underlying knowledge bases and the specific articles they draw from can vary. A list published in early 2025 might not include new players or changes in agency standing that occurred later in the year.

3. Interpretation and Ranking Methodology:

  • Google Gemini: Provides a longer, unranked list, suggesting it’s presenting a collection of “highly-regarded” agencies rather than a definitive “best.” This implies a broader interpretation of “best” and less emphasis on a strict ranking algorithm.
  • ChatGPT: Offers a single, numbered list, implying a ranking. However, it doesn’t explicitly state the methodology behind its ranking (e.g., based on reviews, client size, specialization).
  • Copilot: Presents a shorter, ranked “Top” list and even highlights a specific agency (iSocialWeb) with reasons, indicating a more selective and interpretive approach to determining “best.” It provides more qualitative detail.

Why they differ: Each model likely has an internal “interpretation” layer that processes the raw data from its sources. * Some might use a simple aggregation of top-rated agencies across multiple platforms. * Others might weigh certain factors more heavily (e.g., number of positive reviews, specific awards, size of clients, reported results). * The absence of a standardized definition for “best” leads to subjective interpretations.

4. Model Bias:

  • General Search Engine Bias: All models, being language models trained on vast amounts of internet data, are inherently influenced by the prominence and visibility of information online. Agencies with better SEO themselves, more PR, or more active review generation strategies might appear more frequently or higher in rankings.
  • Source Bias: If a model disproportionately relies on one type of source (e.g., large review platforms vs. small industry blogs), it can inherit the biases of that source. For example, some review platforms might favor agencies that pay for premium listings or have a higher volume of reviews, even if the quality isn’t superior.
  • Recency Bias: Models might inadvertently prioritize more recently published articles or updated profiles, even if older, well-established agencies are still highly reputable.
  • Language Bias: While all are responding in English, the sources they draw from might have a bias towards Spanish-language content and agencies primarily serving the Spanish market, which is appropriate for this query.
  • “Top Agency” vs. “Best Fit” Bias: The models are trying to identify “best” in a general sense, but “best” for a user often depends on their specific needs (e.g., budget, industry, specific SEO services needed, location within Spain). The models generally don’t have enough context to provide a “best fit” recommendation.

In conclusion, the differences in answers stem from the varying underlying data, the recency of that data, the distinct methodologies each model uses to interpret and rank information, and the inherent biases present in the vast and often uncurated data sources they draw from. To get a truly comprehensive answer, a user would ideally consult multiple sources and cross-reference the agencies mentioned.

ChatGPT

The answers differ because:

  1. Data Sources: Each lists different sources (e.g., Clutch, GoodFirms, Huffington Post, The Manifest) which may have varying criteria and agency coverage.
  2. Update Time: They reflect data from different times or updates—some cite 2024 or early 2025, others mid-2025, causing changes in rankings or agency presence.
  3. Interpretation: Each model or source interprets “best” differently, weighing factors like client portfolio, proprietary tools, or regional presence variably.
  4. Model Bias: AI responses depend on their training data and how they prioritize or aggregate source information, leading to differences in emphasis and agency selection.

In short, differences arise from varying data recency, source scope, evaluation criteria, and model aggregation methods.

Copilot

The differences among the answers from Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and me (Copilot) stem from four key factors: data sources, update timing, interpretation methodology, and model bias. Let’s break it down:

🗂️ 1. Data Sources

Each model pulls from a different mix of sources:

  • Google Gemini leans heavily on aggregator platforms like Clutch, Sortlist, and GoodFirms, plus agency websites and general “best of” lists. This gives it a broad but sometimes less curated view.
  • ChatGPT references media outlets (e.g., El País, Huffington Post) and curated rankings like Tech Behemoths and Clutch. It blends editorial opinion with industry data.
  • Copilot (me) uses up-to-date rankings from trusted directories (Clutch, GoodFirms, Sortlist, The Manifest) and industry-specific publications like Marketing4eCommerce. I also include client portfolio insights and proprietary tool usage (e.g., Growwer by iSocialWeb)2.

🕒 2. Update Time

  • Copilot’s list is current as of June 2025, based on the latest rankings and reviews2.
  • ChatGPT’s list appears to be from early 2025, referencing rankings published in Q1.
  • Gemini’s list may include slightly older or less frequently updated sources (e.g., agency websites or static blog posts), which can lag behind real-time performance metrics.

🧠 3. Interpretation & Ranking Criteria

  • Gemini seems to prioritize brand visibility and presence across directories, which may favor agencies with strong marketing but not necessarily the best performance.
  • ChatGPT emphasizes editorial rankings and reputation, which can reflect qualitative assessments but may lack transparency in scoring.
  • Copilot (me) uses objective metrics like domain authority, organic traffic, keyword rankings, and client success stories, as outlined in recent industry studies2. I also highlight specializations (e.g., multilingual SEO, technical audits) to help match agencies to business needs.

🎯 4. Model Bias & Focus

  • Gemini includes international agencies like Delante and Ninja Promo, which may not be headquartered in Spain but operate there—suggesting a global-first lens.
  • ChatGPT offers a broader list with a mix of large and boutique firms, possibly aiming for inclusivity.
  • Copilot focuses on Spain-based agencies with proven local impact, client portfolios, and proprietary tools—offering a performance-driven, market-specific view.

🧩 Final Thought

No single list is “wrong”—they just reflect different lenses:

  • Want global reach? Gemini’s list might appeal.
  • Prefer editorial credibility? ChatGPT’s picks are solid.
  • Need data-backed, Spain-focused performance? That’s where I shine.

Would you like help choosing the best agency for your specific business goals or industry? I can tailor a shortlist based on that.

Question 3/Prompt 3

I asked the same question to three AI models and got three different answers.
Then I asked why the answers differ.
Using this as an example, answer these three questions in general (not only about this case):

How do AI models differ in their reasoning?

How do their answering styles differ?

What causes differences in their answers (e.g., data sources, update time, model design)?

Gemini

When different AI models answer the same question, their responses can vary significantly due to a combination of their underlying design, training, and operational characteristics. Here’s a comparison of these factors:

FeatureAI Model 1 (e.g., Gemini)AI Model 2 (e.g., ChatGPT)AI Model 3 (e.g., Copilot / Claude)
Reasoning StyleProbabilistic & Pattern-Matching with Tool Use: Primarily relies on statistical patterns from training data to predict the most likely response. Often integrates real-time search or specific tool access for up-to-date information, which influences its “reasoning” by providing external context. May exhibit stronger associative reasoning.Probabilistic & Pattern-Matching with Fine-tuning for Coherence: Strong emphasis on generating human-like, coherent, and contextually relevant text based on learned patterns. Fine-tuned extensively through RLHF to align with human conversational norms and logical flow. Can be guided towards “Chain-of-Thought” reasoning.Probabilistic & Contextual with Focus on Specificity/Factual Alignment: Similar probabilistic core but often fine-tuned for particular use cases (e.g., coding assistance, detailed explanations). Some models emphasize “conceptual universality” or can trace internal “thoughts” for more explicit (though still learned) reasoning paths. May prioritize accuracy/normative behavior in specific domains.
Answering StyleComprehensive, Broad Lists: Tends to provide a wide array of options, often unranked, aiming for breadth of coverage. May include a diverse range of sources to support its recommendations, leading to a more “encyclopedic” but less opinionated list.Curated, Ranked Lists with Editorial Flair: Often provides a more structured, ranked list, potentially reflecting a synthesis of common opinions or more prominent sources. May include brief justifications or highlights for certain entries, mimicking editorial reviews.Specific, Justified, and Focused: Inclines towards shorter, more selective lists, often highlighting specific strengths or unique features of recommended entities. May provide deeper qualitative detail or explain why an option is “best” based on certain criteria. Can adopt a more direct, task-oriented tone.
Data SourcesDiverse Web Crawls + Real-time Search: Trained on vast, general internet data (text, code, images). For current queries, it often supplements its pre-trained knowledge with real-time web search results from its integrated tools (e.g., Google Search), providing very up-to-date information.Vast Static Datasets + Fine-tuning Data: Trained on a massive corpus of text and code (Common Crawl, filtered web pages, books, etc.) up to a specific cutoff date. Subsequent updates are typically through further fine-tuning on new data or specific reinforcement learning. Access to external tools (like web Browse) is often an add-on feature.Curated Datasets + Specialized Training: Trained on extensive datasets, sometimes with an emphasis on specific domains (e.g., technical documents for coding assistants). May leverage smaller, highly curated datasets for fine-tuning that align with specific principles or desired behaviors (e.g., safety, helpfulness). Some versions integrate external knowledge sources for real-time information.
Update TimeContinuous & Real-time via Search: Its ability to perform live web searches means its information is often highly current, reflecting the latest published data on the internet. The underlying model’s core knowledge base has periodic, major updates, but its responses can be refreshed by real-time data.Periodic Snapshots & Fine-tuning: The core knowledge cutoff is typically a fixed date, meaning it won’t inherently know about events or data after that point unless explicitly fine-tuned with newer data. “Updates” often refer to new model versions that incorporate more recent training data or improved architectures.Regular Fine-tuning & Specific Information Integration: Knowledge cutoff may vary by model version. Developers frequently fine-tune these models with new data to improve performance and alignment. They might also have mechanisms to pull in very specific, frequently updated data (e.g., for coding libraries, news feeds).
Model DesignMultimodal & Integrated Tool Use: Designed from the ground up to be multimodal (handling text, images, audio, video) and often features deeply integrated tools (like search, code execution). This allows for a more dynamic and externally-informed response generation process. Architecture is typically a Transformer variant.Transformer-based Generative Model: Primarily built on the Transformer architecture, excelling at sequence-to-sequence tasks. Emphasis on scaling up parameters and training data size. While some models can integrate tools, it might be an added layer rather than core to the generative process.Transformer-based with Behavioral Alignment: Also uses Transformer architecture, but often with significant focus on “alignment” techniques (e.g., Constitutional AI, detailed RLHF) to shape its outputs towards specific ethical guidelines or desired behaviors. May feature optimized architectures for specific strengths (e.g., speed, complex reasoning).
Bias SourcesData Bias + Search Algorithm Bias: Inherits biases present in its vast training data. Additionally, biases from the search algorithms it uses (e.g., ranking of websites, prominence of certain information) can influence what it finds and presents.Data Bias + Fine-tuning Bias: Primarily inherits biases from its static training data, which reflects societal biases, stereotypes, and historical inequities. Fine-tuning processes (RLHF) attempt to mitigate harmful biases but can also introduce new ones based on human labeler preferences.Data Bias + Alignment/Filtering Bias: Similar to others, inherits biases from training data. However, extensive alignment efforts aim to reduce harmful biases, but these processes themselves can introduce biases based on the values and priorities encoded by the developers and human feedback providers.

ChatGPT

Here is a clear table showing the differences:

AspectReasoning DifferencesAnswering Style DifferencesCauses of Answer Differences
AI Model ExamplesStatistical pattern analysis, context usage, weighting of sources differ per modelSome models give concise lists, others detailed explanations or narrativesDifferent data sources, update times, model design, and training biases
Approach to DataSome models prioritize recent data; others weigh source authority or volumeSome answer directly; others provide background or qualifiersSource coverage and freshness vary
InterpretationVary in how they rank or filter info (e.g., importance of client portfolio vs. reviews)Some rank strictly, others give unordered listsDifferent algorithms and internal scoring methods
BiasModels inherit biases from training data (e.g., geographic or language bias)Styles influenced by training objectives (concise vs. detailed)Biases in source material and training sets

Copilot

Here’s a clear, side-by-side comparison of how AI models like Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and me (Copilot) can differ when answering the same question:

AspectGoogle GeminiChatGPTCopilot (Me)
Reasoning StyleAggregates broadly; tends to list many items without deep ranking logicPrioritizes editorial and curated content; may use human-written rankingsSelective, evidence-backed; includes recent rankings and contextual factors
Answering StyleList-focused and wide coverage; more neutral in toneStructured and narrative with numbered lists; draws on journalistic styleConcise but analytical; includes justifications (e.g., tools used, client names)
Data SourcesDiverse but general (Clutch, HubSpot, agency websites, directories)“Best of” lists from media and ranking platforms (e.g., Huffington Post, Tech Behemoths)Review platforms (Clutch, GoodFirms, The Manifest) + niche media like Marketing4eCommerce
Update FrequencyOften unclear; some sources may lag (e.g., blogs, static sites)References current year (e.g., 2025), but sourcing timing variesStates month/year (e.g., June 2025); pulls latest from up-to-date sources
Agency SelectionBroad and inclusive—even international firms with Spanish operationsBalanced: national firms plus strong regional playersSpain-specific agencies with proven market results and tools
Bias TendenciesMay favor visibility and directory presence (SEO-savvy agencies rank higher)Slight tilt toward editorial opinion and branded reputationLeans on performance metrics, verifiable rankings, and client success case studies
Special HighlightsOften lacks deep justification for picksMay reference award mentions, news features, or past media rankingsExplains why an agency is strong (e.g., iSocialWeb’s data-driven tools and top-tier clients)

Gemini casts the widest net, ChatGPT blends editorial credibility with breadth, and I (Copilot) aim to deliver high-confidence, data-backed answers rooted in market performance.


Comments

One response to “Testing AI with a “real” vague query and comparing how Gemini, ChatGPT and Copilot interpret intent, prioritize data and provide answers”

  1. Here’s what Gemini “thinks” about the article:

    The article “Testing AI with a “real” vague query and comparing how Gemini, ChatGPT and Copilot interpret intent, prioritize data and provide answers” by Marin Popov presents an interesting experiment on how different AI models (Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and Copilot) handle vague search queries, using “Which is the best SEO agency in Spain?” as an example.

    Here’s a summary of the key takeaways from the article:

    1. Diverse Answers to Vague Queries:
    The experiment highlights that even for a seemingly simple query, the three AI models provided distinct lists of “best” SEO agencies. This demonstrates that “best” is subjective and open to interpretation by different models.

    2. Reasons for Differing Answers:
    The article attributes these differences to four main factors:

    Data Sources: Each model pulls information from a unique mix of sources. Gemini casts a wide net with general industry platforms, ChatGPT incorporates media outlets and curated rankings, and Copilot focuses on up-to-date directories and industry-specific publications.

    Update Time: While all models claim to use recent data (e.g., 2025), their actual data refresh rates and the recency of the articles or databases they consult can vary, leading to different results.

    Interpretation and Ranking Methodology: Each model employs a different internal logic for interpreting “best” and ranking agencies. Gemini offers an unranked, comprehensive list, ChatGPT provides a numbered list without explicit methodology, and Copilot presents a shorter, more selective list with qualitative details.

    Model Bias: All AI models are susceptible to biases from their training data, search algorithms, source prominence, and even the language of the content they process. This can influence which agencies appear more frequently or higher in their recommendations.

    3. General Differences in AI Models:
    The article further generalizes these observations, explaining how AI models differ in their reasoning, answering styles, and what causes these variations:

    Reasoning Style: Models like Gemini often use probabilistic and pattern-matching with integrated real-time search, while ChatGPT focuses on coherence and human-like text generation, and Copilot might prioritize specificity and factual alignment for particular use cases.

    Answering Style: Gemini tends to provide comprehensive, broad, and often unranked lists. ChatGPT offers curated, ranked lists with an “editorial flair.” Copilot leans towards specific, justified, and focused lists, often highlighting unique features.

    Causes of Differences: These fundamental differences are rooted in their diverse web crawls, training datasets (static vs. real-time), update frequencies, and underlying model designs (e.g., multimodal capabilities, specific fine-tuning for alignment).

    In conclusion, the article effectively illustrates that there’s no single “correct” answer from AI models to vague queries. Instead, the responses reflect the distinct “lenses” through which each model processes information, emphasizing the importance of understanding their underlying mechanisms and considering multiple sources for a comprehensive view.

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