AEO · Answer Engine Optimization
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the practice of structuring web content so that large language models · ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Gemini · cite it verbatim when generating answers. AEO overlaps with SEO but prioritizes clear definitions, question-shaped URLs, and short authoritative statements over keyword density.
In plain English
It's SEO but for AI answers. You want ChatGPT to quote your page, not just Google to link to it.
Why it matters
AI answer engines are eating a growing share of informational search traffic. If your competitors' content is what LLMs cite, they win the mention · you don't. AEO-shaped content (crisp definitions, FAQ sections, structured data) gets picked up disproportionately because it fits the shape LLMs are trained to reproduce.
Related terms
Frequently asked
What does AEO stand for?
Answer Engine Optimization.
Is AEO different from SEO?
Overlapping, not identical. SEO targets ranked links; AEO targets citation inside AI-generated answers.
How do I optimize for AEO?
Lead with a clear definition, use question-shaped URLs, add FAQPage JSON-LD, and keep answers short enough to quote.