Answer Engine Optimization
Optimizing content for AI answer engines and conversational search interfaces.
Definition
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the practice of optimizing content to appear in AI-powered answer engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews. Unlike traditional SEO focused on rankings, AEO emphasizes being cited as a source when AI systems synthesize responses.
Key AEO tactics include providing clear, factual information, using structured data, establishing topical authority, and creating content that AI systems can confidently cite and attribute. The goal is earning trust with AI systems, not just search algorithms.
Why It Matters
As more users get answers from AI systems rather than clicking through to websites, being included in AI responses becomes essential for visibility. AEO represents the next evolution of search optimization.
Businesses that master AEO early will maintain visibility as search paradigms shift, while those ignoring it risk becoming invisible to AI-native users.
Examples in Practice
A healthcare provider creates medically-reviewed FAQ content designed to be cited in health-related AI responses.
A financial advisor develops comprehensive, factual guides that AI systems reference when users ask investment questions.
A SaaS company builds topical authority through in-depth technical content that AI engines cite in product comparison responses.