Dwell time

Dwell time is the duration between a user clicking a search result and returning to the results page. It is not a metric Google publishes or that you can measure directly for organic search, but it is the kind of behavioral signal the click-based systems described in the API leak and DOJ testimony appear to use. A long dwell suggests the page answered the question; a quick return suggests it did not.

Dwell time is distinct from related but different metrics. Bounce rate is a Google Analytics concept about single-page sessions and is not a Google ranking factor. Time on page is an analytics measure that does not capture the return-to-SERP behavior. Dwell time specifically concerns the search-result loop, which is why it connects to last-long-click and pogo-sticking rather than to site analytics.

You cannot optimize dwell time as a number, and trying to inflate it (artificially lengthening content, hiding the answer) backfires by frustrating users. The way to earn good dwell behavior is to satisfy the intent quickly and then reward continued reading: lead with the answer, then provide the depth that makes staying worthwhile. The same content that satisfies a human and earns a long dwell is the content that gets cited by AI engines.