Describe the process of query reformulation in information retrieval.

Query reformulation is a crucial step in the information retrieval process that aims to improve the effectiveness and relevance of search results. It involves modifying or refining the original user query to better match the user's information needs and retrieve more accurate and useful information.

The process of query reformulation typically consists of several steps. Firstly, the system analyzes the user's initial query to identify potential issues or limitations. This analysis may involve examining the query structure, identifying ambiguous terms, or detecting spelling errors.

Next, the system suggests alternative query terms or phrases that could potentially enhance the search results. These suggestions can be generated using various techniques, such as expanding the query with synonyms, related terms, or domain-specific vocabulary. Additionally, the system may employ techniques like query expansion, where additional terms are added to the original query to broaden the search scope.

After generating alternative query suggestions, the system presents them to the user, who can then select the most relevant ones or modify them further. This user feedback is crucial in refining the query and ensuring that it aligns with the user's information needs.

Once the user has finalized the reformulated query, the system executes the search using the modified query terms. The search engine then retrieves and ranks the relevant documents based on their relevance to the reformulated query.

Throughout the process of query reformulation, the system may employ various techniques and algorithms to improve the search results. These techniques can include relevance feedback, where the user's interaction with the search results is used to refine the query further, or query suggestion based on previous user queries or search patterns.

Overall, query reformulation is an iterative process that aims to bridge the gap between the user's information needs and the available information. By refining and modifying the query, information retrieval systems can enhance the relevance and accuracy of search results, ultimately improving the user's search experience.