{"id":14452,"date":"2025-10-22T15:49:14","date_gmt":"2025-10-22T15:49:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/"},"modified":"2025-10-22T15:49:14","modified_gmt":"2025-10-22T15:49:14","slug":"ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"AI Optimization: How to Rank in AI Search (+ Checklist)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>When a potential user asks ChatGPT, Google AI, or Perplexity for recommendations, does your brand appear in the answer?<\/p>\n<p>Not just cited \u2014 actually mentioned in the response?<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s a crucial distinction.<\/p>\n<p>Brands that AI systems mention with context and positive sentiment attract the most intent-driven traffic.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"We Studied the Impact of AI Search on SEO Traffic. Here\u2019s What We Learned.\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-search-seo-traffic-study\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush research<\/a> shows that visitors who find a brand in an AI answer are 4.4 times more valuable than those from traditional search.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re pre-qualified. They\u2019ve seen AI endorse your solution.<\/p>\n<p>And unlike SEO, AI doesn\u2019t care about website authority.<\/p>\n<p>Most sources cited in AI responses don\u2019t even rank in Google\u2019s top 20.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Ranking positions of LLM \u2013 Cited search results\" alt=\"Ranking positions of LLM \u2013 Cited search results\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ranking-positions-of-llm-cited-search-results.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So if you follow best practices, your startup can earn favorable mentions over more established competitors.<\/p>\n<p>Meritocracy.<\/p>\n<p>How do you make that happen?<\/p>\n<p>Read on to learn:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How AI search works<\/li>\n<li>How the Backlinko team approaches AI SEO<\/li>\n<li>Best practices to make your site AI-ready<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Let\u2019s start with the basics of AI optimization.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>Grab our free <a title=\"AI Search Optimization Checklist by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1yO3o8bZdWPkX6-PdEu8_DXfkiLBTdPjifeAnTnTh_Qw\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Search Optimization Checklist<\/a> and follow the exact steps we use to get cited across ChatGPT, Google, and more.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#What_Is_AI_Optimization_And_Why_You_Should_Care\" >What Is AI Optimization (And Why You Should Care)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#How_AI_Search_Works\" >How AI Search Works<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#1_Understanding_Your_Prompt\" >1. Understanding Your Prompt<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#2_Retrieval\" >2. Retrieval<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#3_Synthesis\" >3. Synthesis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#I_Analyzed_10_Queries_Across_Multiple_AI_Search_Platforms_Heres_What_I_Found\" >I Analyzed 10 Queries Across Multiple AI Search Platforms: Here\u2019s What I Found<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#How_Each_Platform_Chooses_Sources\" >How Each Platform Chooses Sources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#The_%E2%80%9CCitation_Core%E2%80%9D_Effect\" >The \u201cCitation Core\u201d Effect<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#What_This_Means_for_Brand_Sites\" >What This Means for Brand Sites<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#How_to_Optimize_Your_Website_for_AI_Search\" >How to Optimize Your Website for AI Search<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#Developer_Tasks\" >Developer Tasks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#1_Make_Your_Site_Accessible_to_AI_Crawlers\" >1. Make Your Site Accessible to AI Crawlers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#2_Whitelist_AI_Bots_in_Your_Firewall\" >2. Whitelist AI Bots in Your Firewall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#3_Use_Semantic_HTML_So_AI_Knows_Whats_Important\" >3. Use Semantic HTML So AI Knows What\u2019s Important<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#4_Add_Visible_Dates_for_Freshness_Signals\" >4. Add Visible Dates for Freshness Signals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#5_Remove_Barriers_to_Content_Access\" >5. Remove Barriers to Content Access<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#6_Optimize_Your_Server_Response_Time\" >6. Optimize Your Server Response Time<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#SEO_Tasks\" >SEO Tasks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#7_Structure_Pages_for_Fragment-Friendly_Indexing\" >7. Structure Pages for Fragment-Friendly Indexing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#8_Build_Topic_Clusters_That_Signal_Full_Coverage\" >8. Build Topic Clusters That Signal Full Coverage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#9_Add_Schema_Markup_to_Label_Your_Content\" >9. Add Schema Markup to Label Your Content<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#10_Add_Detailed_Content_to_Category_and_Product_Pages\" >10. Add Detailed Content to Category and Product Pages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#11_Track_Where_AI_Mentions_Your_Brand_and_Where_It_Doesnt\" >11. Track Where AI Mentions Your Brand (and Where It Doesn\u2019t)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#12_Optimize_for_Natural_Language_Prompts_Not_Just_Keywords\" >12. Optimize for Natural Language Prompts, Not Just Keywords<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#Content_Tasks\" >Content Tasks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#13_Publish_Original_Content_with_Data_Examples_and_Insights\" >13. Publish Original Content with Data, Examples, and Insights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#14_Embed_Your_Brand_Name_in_Context-Inclusive_Copy\" >14. Embed Your Brand Name in Context-Inclusive Copy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#15_Create_Pages_for_Every_Use_Case_Feature_and_Integration\" >15. Create Pages for Every Use Case, Feature, and Integration<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#16_Expand_Your_Reach_Through_Non-Owned_Channels\" >16. Expand Your Reach Through Non-Owned Channels<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#Dont_Overlook_Community_Platforms\" >Don\u2019t Overlook Community Platforms<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/ai-optimization-how-to-rank-in-ai-search-checklist\/#Your_Next_Move_in_AI_Search_Optimization\" >Your Next Move in AI Search Optimization<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_AI_Optimization_And_Why_You_Should_Care\"><\/span>What Is AI Optimization (And Why You Should Care)?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>AI optimization is the process of making your website accessible and understandable to AI-powered search tools. Like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity, Google AI Overview, and Bing Copilot.<\/p>\n<p>Some call it \u201cAI search optimization.\u201d Others \u201cAI content optimization.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Terminologies vary, but they\u2019re all about the same thing:<\/p>\n<p>Make your site easy for <a title=\"23 Best Large Language Models (LLMs)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/list-of-llms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">large language models<\/a> (LLMs) to find, understand, and reference in their answers.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not a brand-new strategy. It\u2019s built on the core SEO principles.<\/p>\n<p>Only now, you\u2019re optimizing for tools that pull, summarize, and use your information \u2014 not just rank.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traditional Search vs. AI Search\" alt=\"Traditional Search vs. AI Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/traditional-search-vs-ai-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But why is AI optimization so important now?<\/p>\n<p>AI tools are expected to drive more traffic than traditional search engines by 2028.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google and LLM Unique Visitor Growth Projection (Moderate Case)\" alt=\"Google and LLM Unique Visitor Growth Projection (Moderate Case)\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.81857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/google-and-llm-unique-visitor-growth-projection-moderate-case.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And here\u2019s the kicker:<\/p>\n<p>This traffic pool is only getting bigger.<\/p>\n<p>Over <a title=\"ChatGPT \/ OpenAI Statistics: How Many People Use ChatGPT\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/chatgpt-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">700 million people<\/a> use ChatGPT every week. Millions more use Perplexity, Gemini, and other AI platforms.<\/p>\n<p>Google\u2019s AI Mode already has more than <a title=\"Alphabet Q2 earnings call: CEO\u2019s remarks\" href=\"https:\/\/blog.google\/inside-google\/message-ceo\/alphabet-earnings-q2-2025\/#google-cloud\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">100 million<\/a> monthly active users. And that\u2019s just in the US and India.<\/p>\n<p>As it rolls out globally, adoption will only grow.<\/p>\n<p>AI search optimization helps you be visible to these users.<\/p>\n<p>It ensures your site appears in AI-powered search results, increasing your chances of getting referral traffic and finding new customers.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_AI_Search_Works\"><\/span>How AI Search Works<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>LLMs find relevant content across the web based on users\u2019 prompts, then combines it into one comprehensive answer with source links.<\/p>\n<p>There are three broad steps:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"How AI Search Works\" alt=\"How AI Search Works\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.58857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/how-ai-search-works.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Understanding_Your_Prompt\"><\/span>1. Understanding Your Prompt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>First, AI interprets what you\u2019re asking.<\/p>\n<p>Some platforms (and specific models) may even expand or tweak your query for better results.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, if I search \u201cbest sneakers,\u201d ChatGPT\u2019s o3 model searches for more specific phrases like \u201cbest running shoes 2025.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 O3 model \u2013 Best sneakers\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 O3 model \u2013 Best sneakers\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/chatgpt-o3-model-best-sneakers.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Retrieval\"><\/span>2. Retrieval<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Next, the AI platform searches for information in real time.<\/p>\n<p>Different platforms use different sources (Google\u2019s index, Bing, curated databases, etc.). But they all work the same way.<\/p>\n<p>They gather relevant content from across the web for your expanded query.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Synthesis\"><\/span>3. Synthesis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Finally, AI decides which sources to include.<\/p>\n<p>How?<\/p>\n<p>The exact criteria aren\u2019t public. But these factors seem to matter the most:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Authority:<\/strong> Recognized brands (entities it knows) and established experts<\/li>\n<li><strong>Structure:<\/strong> Clear, scannable content with direct answers<\/li>\n<li><strong>Context:<\/strong> Content that covers topics semantically (related concepts, not just keyword matches)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The most relevant sources get cited. The rest get ignored.<\/p>\n<p>Which means ranking well isn\u2019t enough. Your content also needs to be properly structured for AI systems.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"I_Analyzed_10_Queries_Across_Multiple_AI_Search_Platforms_Heres_What_I_Found\"><\/span>I Analyzed 10 Queries Across Multiple AI Search Platforms: Here\u2019s What I Found<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before we move forward to discuss how to optimize for AI search, I wanted to understand three things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do different AI platforms cite different types of content?<\/li>\n<li>Which domains consistently appear across platforms?<\/li>\n<li>Does multi-platform presence actually matter for AI visibility?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>So I ran a simple experiment.<\/p>\n<p>I searched 10 queries across ChatGPT 5, Claude Sonnet 4, Perplexity (Sonar model), Gemini 2.5 Flash, and Google\u2019s AI Mode \u2014 a mix of commercial, informational, local, and trending topics.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The Queries I Tested\" alt=\"The Queries I Tested\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.97285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/the-queries-i-tested.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And I found some interesting insights.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Each_Platform_Chooses_Sources\"><\/span>How Each Platform Chooses Sources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<caption>\u00a0<\/caption>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Platforms<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Citation Behavior<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Platforms\">ChatGPT<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Citation Behavior\">Acts like a community aggregator. Mixes Reddit discussions with Wikipedia and review sites.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Platforms\">Claude<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Citation Behavior\">Prefers recent, authoritative sources. Zero Reddit citations. Focuses on 2024-2025 content<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Platforms\">Perplexity<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Citation Behavior\">Most diverse. Balances buying guides, YouTube reviews, and some Reddit.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Platforms\">Gemini<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Citation Behavior\">Relies mostly on training data. And since there\u2019s no option to turn on web search, you can\u2019t get it to cite sources for most of your queries.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Platforms\">Google AI Mode<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Citation Behavior\">Pulls from beyond top search results. 50% of citations weren\u2019t on page one of Google.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_%E2%80%9CCitation_Core%E2%80%9D_Effect\"><\/span>The \u201cCitation Core\u201d Effect<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Certain domains have achieved what we call the \u201ccitation core\u201d status.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Citation core (n.):<\/strong> A small group of sites and brands that every major AI search tool trusts, cites, and uses as default sources.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Wikipedia showed up 16 times. Mayo Clinic owned health queries. RTINGS controlled electronics reviews.<\/p>\n<p>These sites have become AI\u2019s default sources.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Citation Core\" alt=\"Citation Core\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/citation-core.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_This_Means_for_Brand_Sites\"><\/span>What This Means for Brand Sites<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One pattern jumped out: Official brand websites were underrepresented.<\/p>\n<p>In my test, they made up around ~10% of all citations.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"AI Citation Breakdown\" alt=\"AI Citation Breakdown\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.58857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ai-citation-breakdown.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But that doesn\u2019t mean your site doesn\u2019t matter for informational or educational queries.<\/p>\n<p>It means most sites aren\u2019t yet AI-friendly. And that\u2019s the opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>When your site is structured, detailed, and optimized, it becomes one of the few brand-owned sources AI can actually cite for product specs, features, case studies, and stats. Information third-party sites can\u2019t provide.<\/p>\n<p>Think of it like this: Your website gives you the authoritative base layer. Off-site presence just amplifies it.<\/p>\n<p>These findings aren\u2019t surprising. But they reinforce what we\u2019ve suspected all along.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, a lot of what we do here at Backlinko aligns with these patterns:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Creating citable content<\/li>\n<li>Doing A\/B tests to optimize our site<\/li>\n<li>Earning third-party validation.<\/li>\n<li>Building authority across platforms (Did you check <a title=\"Backlinko - YouTube\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@BacklinkoTeam\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">our YouTube channel<\/a>?)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Optimize_Your_Website_for_AI_Search\"><\/span>How to Optimize Your Website for AI Search<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Google\u2019s <a title=\"Top ways to ensure your content performs well in Google&#039;s AI experiences on Search\" href=\"https:\/\/developers.google.com\/search\/blog\/2025\/05\/succeeding-in-ai-search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guideline<\/a> says good SEO is good AI optimization.<\/p>\n<p>Their official guidelines mostly rehash standard SEO practices, with a few AI-specific points. Like using preview controls and ensuring structured data matches visible content.<\/p>\n<p>But there\u2019s much more to it than that.<\/p>\n<p>Getting cited in AI answers is a team sport.<\/p>\n<p>PR, product, support, and customer success all play a role. (Check out <a title=\"AI Search Strategy: The Seen &amp; Trusted Brand Framework\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-search-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Search Strategy: The Seen &amp; Trusted Brand Framework<\/a> where we discuss this.)<\/p>\n<p>But the foundation to make your site AI search-ready starts with three teams working in sync:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Developers:<\/strong> They make your site technically accessible to AI crawlers<\/li>\n<li><strong>SEOs:<\/strong> They structure content so AI can extract and understand it<\/li>\n<li><strong>Content teams:<\/strong> They create information worth extracting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"How to optimize your website for AI search\" alt=\"How to optimize your website for AI search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/how-to-optimize-your-website-for-ai-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Most companies treat these as separate projects.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s a mistake.<\/p>\n<p>Leigh McKenzie, Head of SEO at Backlinko, explains why:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/01\/leigh-mckenzie.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cRanking in Google doesn\u2019t guarantee you\u2019ll show up in AI tools. SEO is still table stakes. But generative engines don\u2019t just lift the top results. They scan at a semantic level, fan queries out into dozens of variants, and stitch together answers from multiple sources.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/01\/leigh-mckenzie.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>You\u2019ll need a coordinated effort to execute.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s look at exactly what each team needs to do for effective AI search optimization.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Most traditional SEO practices work for AI optimization too.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m not covering the basics here, like using <a title=\"Sitemap: What Is It &amp; Why Your Website Needs One\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/sitemaps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sitemaps<\/a> and including metadata. You should already be doing those.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, I\u2019m focusing on factors that specifically impact AI search visibility. These are insights based on my own experience, analyzing what\u2019s working across different sites, and comparing notes with other SEOs.<\/p>\n<p>Want the complete list?<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve created an <a title=\"AI Search Engine Optimization Checklist by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1yO3o8bZdWPkX6-PdEu8_DXfkiLBTdPjifeAnTnTh_Qw\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Search Engine Optimization Checklist<\/a> that covers everything \u2014 the well-known tactics, the experimental ones, and the \u201ccan\u2019t hurt to try\u201d optimizations that might give you an edge.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Developer_Tasks\"><\/span>Developer Tasks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Understanding how to optimize for AI search starts with your developers. Because they control whether AI can actually access and understand your content.<\/p>\n<p>No access means no citations.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what they need to check:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Make_Your_Site_Accessible_to_AI_Crawlers\"><\/span>1. Make Your Site Accessible to AI Crawlers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI crawlers need permission to access your site through your <a title=\"Robots.txt and SEO: Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/robots-txt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">robots.txt<\/a> file.<\/p>\n<p>If you block them, your content won\u2019t appear in AI search results.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the main AI crawlers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>GPTBot<\/strong> (OpenAI\/ChatGPT)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Google-Extended<\/strong> (Google\u2019s AI Overview)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Claude-Web<\/strong> (Anthropic\/Claude)<\/li>\n<li><strong>PerplexityBot<\/strong> (Perplexity)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To check if you\u2019re blocking them, go to yoursite.com\/robots.txt.<\/p>\n<p>Look for any lines that say \u201cDisallow\u201d next to these crawler names.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Robots.txt blocking AI crawlers\" alt=\"Robots.txt blocking AI crawlers\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2676923076923\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/robots-txt-blocking-ai-crawlers.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you find them blocked (or want to make sure they\u2019re allowed), add these lines to your robots.txt:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-code alert\">\n<figure class=\"hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/code-icon_2a06ab93.png\" alt=\"code icon\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n        <\/figure>\n<div>\n<pre><code>User-agent: GPTBot\nAllow: \/\nUser-agent: Google-Extended\nAllow: \/\nUser-agent: Claude-Web\nAllow: \/\nUser-agent: PerplexityBot\nAllow: \/<\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This tells AI crawlers they can access your entire site.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Whitelist_AI_Bots_in_Your_Firewall\"><\/span>2. Whitelist AI Bots in Your Firewall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Cloudflare, Sucuri, and other web application firewalls (WAFs) sometimes block legitimate AI crawlers as \u201csuspicious bots.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>For instance, Cloudflare now blocks AI bots from accessing its clients\u2019 websites by default.<\/p>\n<p>You have to turn off this security feature to ensure AI bots can crawl your site.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Cloudflare \u2013 Security bots\" alt=\"Cloudflare \u2013 Security bots\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/cloudflare-security-bots.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Check your firewalls and security tools.<\/p>\n<p>See if they\u2019re blocking requests from AI user agents or giving 403 errors. And address that issue.<\/p>\n<p>Remember: no access, no citations.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Use_Semantic_HTML_So_AI_Knows_Whats_Important\"><\/span>3. Use Semantic HTML So AI Knows What\u2019s Important<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI needs to understand what\u2019s important on your page.<\/p>\n<p>Clean HTML helps. Messy code doesn\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p>Use proper <a title=\"8 HTML Tags for SEO (The Ones That Actually Matter)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/html-tags\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HTML tags<\/a> for your content:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>&lt;h1&gt; for your main title<\/li>\n<li>&lt;h2&gt; and &lt;h3&gt; for subheadings<\/li>\n<li>&lt;article&gt; for blog posts<\/li>\n<li>&lt;main&gt; for primary content<\/li>\n<li>&lt;aside&gt; for sidebars<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Don\u2019t dump everything in generic &lt;div&gt; tags.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Non-sematic &amp; Sematic HTML\" alt=\"Non-sematic &amp; Sematic HTML\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/non-sematic-and-sematic-html.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Also, avoid hiding important content behind JavaScript.<\/p>\n<p>AI crawlers can\u2019t execute JavaScript.<\/p>\n<p>If your main content only appears after JavaScript runs, AI will miss it entirely.<\/p>\n<p>Like in this example of Airbnb:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"JavaScript\" alt=\"JavaScript\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/javascript.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Add_Visible_Dates_for_Freshness_Signals\"><\/span>4. Add Visible Dates for Freshness Signals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI systems need to know when your content was published or last updated.<\/p>\n<p>This is especially important for time-sensitive topics like news, prices, or trends.<\/p>\n<p>Without visible dates, AI might assume your content is outdated and skip it entirely.<\/p>\n<p>So, display your dates prominently on every page.<\/p>\n<p>Use a consistent format like \u201cPublished: June 15, 2024\u201d or \u201cLast Updated: August 15, 2025.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Get Rich Slowly \u2013 A values driven life\" alt=\"Get Rich Slowly \u2013 A values driven life\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.66857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/getrichslowly-a-values-driven-life.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Also, add schema markup for dates in your code:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-code alert\">\n<figure class=\"hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/code-icon_2a06ab93.png\" alt=\"code icon\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n        <\/figure>\n<div>\n<pre><code>json\"datePublished\": \"2024-01-15\",\n\"dateModified\": \"2024-12-15\"<\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This gives AI a machine-readable version it can\u2019t misinterpret.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Remove_Barriers_to_Content_Access\"><\/span>5. Remove Barriers to Content Access<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Pop-ups and overlays can prevent AI from reading your content.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, the crawler might grab your newsletter signup text instead of your actual article.<\/p>\n<p>So you want to avoid:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Full-screen pop-ups on page load<\/li>\n<li>Content that requires clicking \u201cRead More\u201d to expand<\/li>\n<li>Infinite scroll that hides content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you must use popups, delay them by at least 30 seconds.<\/p>\n<p>Or better, use exit-intent popups, which appear when the visitors are about to leave.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-wistia-embed  remove-click-to-play image-border w-75-md-up\">\n<div><\/div>\n<p>                            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wistia_thumbnail\" src=\"https:\/\/embed-ssl.wistia.com\/deliveries\/142eec8e18a96893b6258009b3fdc924bbc6c997.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"wistia_embed wistia_async_4yn8o4hkns googleAnalytics=false\" data-embed=\"4yn8o4hkns\" data-thumb=\"142eec8e18a96893b6258009b3fdc924bbc6c997\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Make sure your main content is immediately visible in the HTML.<\/p>\n<p>Think of it this way: AI crawlers are impatient visitors who won\u2019t interact with your page.<\/p>\n<p>Give them what they came for immediately, or they\u2019ll leave empty-handed.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Optimize_Your_Server_Response_Time\"><\/span>6. Optimize Your Server Response Time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your server response time is how long it takes your server to start sending data after receiving a request.<\/p>\n<p>If it\u2019s slow, your pages take longer to load.<\/p>\n<p>And AI crawlers may move on before they ever see your content.<\/p>\n<p>You can use Google\u2019s <a title=\"PageSpeed Insights\" href=\"https:\/\/pagespeed.web.dev\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PageSpeed Insights<\/a> tool to check your server response time.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Server responded slowly\" alt=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Server responded slowly\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pagespeed-insights-server-responded-slowly.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It also shows your page\u2019s overall performance and speed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Pages overall performance &amp; speed\" alt=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Pages overall performance &amp; speed\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pagespeed-insights-pages-overall-performance-and-speed.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you score below 50, your site likely has serious speed issues.<\/p>\n<p>How to improve it?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Enable caching<\/strong>. This stores copies of your pages so your server doesn\u2019t rebuild them for every visitor.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Compress your images<\/strong> before uploading them. Large images are the most common cause of slow pages.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use a content delivery network (CDN)<\/strong>. This serves your content from servers physically closer to your visitors, reducing load time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The faster your server responds, the more likely AI crawlers are to reach and index your content.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Page Speed and SEO: Best Practices\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/pagespeed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Page Speed and SEO: Best Practices<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SEO_Tasks\"><\/span>SEO Tasks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your developers handled the technical requirements. AI can now access your site.<\/p>\n<p>But access doesn\u2019t guarantee visibility in AI results.<\/p>\n<p>Your <a title=\"How to Build an All-Star SEO Team\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/team\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO team<\/a> controls how AI discovers, understands, and prioritizes your content.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what they need to control in your AI SEO strategy:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Structure_Pages_for_Fragment-Friendly_Indexing\"><\/span>7. Structure Pages for Fragment-Friendly Indexing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI pulls specific fragments from your pages \u2014 sentences and paragraphs it can use in responses.<\/p>\n<p>Your page structure affects how easily AI can extract these fragments.<\/p>\n<p>Start with a clean heading hierarchy.<\/p>\n<p>Proper H2s and H3s help AI (and your readers) understand where one idea ends and another begins.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"H1\" alt=\"H1\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.65\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/h1.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Go a step further by breaking big topics into unique subsections.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of one giant guide to \u201chealthy recipes,\u201d create separate sections for \u201chealthy breakfast recipes,\u201d \u201chealthy lunch recipes,\u201d and \u201chealthy dinner recipes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>That way, you match the variations people actually search for.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t bury your best insights in long paragraphs.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use callouts (like this one)<\/li>\n<li>Add short lists and bullets<\/li>\n<li>Drop quick tables for comparisons<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>That\u2019s how you turn raw text into structured fragments AI can actually use.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>When your content is structured this way, every section becomes a potential answer.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Build_Topic_Clusters_That_Signal_Full_Coverage\"><\/span>8. Build Topic Clusters That Signal Full Coverage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Internal linking creates topical connections across your site.<\/p>\n<p>When you link related pages together, you\u2019re building <a title=\"Topic Clusters 101: How to Level Up Your SEO (with Examples)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/topic-clusters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">topic clusters<\/a> that show comprehensive coverage.<\/p>\n<p>This is standard SEO practice that also helps AI discovery.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Topic Cluster\" alt=\"Topic Cluster\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/topic-cluster.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Create <a title=\"Pillar Pages: How to Create One + Examples\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/pillar-pages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pillar pages<\/a> for your main topics. These are comprehensive guides that link out to all related content.<\/p>\n<p>For \u201cproject management,\u201d your pillar would link to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Task automation guide<\/li>\n<li>Team collaboration tools<\/li>\n<li>Workflow optimization<\/li>\n<li>Resource planning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Each supporting page links back to the pillar and to other relevant pages in the cluster.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Content Pillar Page\" alt=\"Content Pillar Page\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.96\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/content-pillar-page.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Use descriptive anchor text throughout.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cProject management automation guide\u201d provides context. \u201cClick here\u201d doesn\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p>This helps both users and AI understand page relationships.<\/p>\n<p>The cluster structure accomplishes two things:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>First, it improves <strong>crawl efficiency<\/strong>. AI finds your hub and immediately discovers all related content through the links.<\/li>\n<li>Second, it demonstrates <strong>topical depth<\/strong>. Organized clusters show comprehensive coverage better than scattered pages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This structural approach helps organize your site architecture to showcase expertise through strategic internal linking.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Add_Schema_Markup_to_Label_Your_Content\"><\/span>9. Add Schema Markup to Label Your Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When AI crawls your page, it sees text.<\/p>\n<p>But it doesn\u2019t know (without natural language processing) if that text is a recipe, a review, or a how-to guide.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"Schema Markup: What It Is and Why It Matters\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/schema-markup-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Schema<\/a> explicitly labels each element of the page.<\/p>\n<p>It makes data more structured and easier to understand.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Markup Types\" alt=\"Markup Types\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/markup-types.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There are several types of schema markups.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve found the FAQ schema particularly effective for AI search visibility.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how it looks:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-code alert\">\n<figure class=\"hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/code-icon_2a06ab93.png\" alt=\"code icon\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n        <\/figure>\n<div>\n<pre><code>json{\n\"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n\"mainEntity\": [{\n\"@type\": \"Question\",\n\"name\": \"What is churn rate?\",\n\"acceptedAnswer\": {\n\"@type\": \"Answer\",\n\"text\": \"Churn rate is the percentage of customers who cancel during a specific period.\"\n}\n}]\n}<\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This markup tells AI exactly where to find questions and answers on your page.<\/p>\n<p>The Q&amp;A format matches how AI structures many of its responses, making your content easy to process.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the content management system (CMS) you\u2019re using, you can add schema using plugins, add-ons, or manually.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, WordPress has several good plugins.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"WordPress \u2013 Schema Markup\" alt=\"WordPress \u2013 Schema Markup\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/wordpress-schema-markup.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>After implementation, you can test it at <a title=\"Schema Markup Validator\" href=\"http:\/\/validator.schema.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">validator.schema.org<\/a> to ensure it\u2019s working properly.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Schema Markup Validator \u2013 Testing WordPress plugins\" alt=\"Schema Markup Validator \u2013 Testing WordPress plugins\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2042857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/schema-markup-validator-testing-wordpress-plugins.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Schema is just one type of metadata. Others include title tags, meta descriptions, and Open Graph tags.<\/p>\n<p>Keeping them accurate and consistent may help AI platforms interpret your content correctly.<\/p>\n<p>You can check your metadata using browser dev tools or SEO extensions, like <a title=\"SEO META in 1 CLICK - Chrome Web Store\" href=\"https:\/\/chromewebstore.google.com\/detail\/seo-meta-in-1-click\/bjogjfinolnhfhkbipphpdlldadpnmhc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO META in 1 CLICK<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Add_Detailed_Content_to_Category_and_Product_Pages\"><\/span>10. Add Detailed Content to Category and Product Pages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Most category pages are just product grids. That\u2019s a missed opportunity for AI search optimization.<\/p>\n<p>The same goes for individual <a title=\"20 Effective Product Page Examples (+ Best Practices)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/product-page-examples\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">product pages<\/a> with just specs and a buy button.<\/p>\n<p>These pages get tons of commercial searches.<\/p>\n<p>But they lack substantial content.<\/p>\n<p>So, AI has limited information to work with when answering product queries.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Ecommerce Comparison \u2013 Basic\" alt=\"Ecommerce Comparison \u2013 Basic\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ecommerce-comparison-basic.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You want to add buyer-focused information directly on these pages, like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Ecommerce Comparison \u2013 More detailed\" alt=\"Ecommerce Comparison \u2013 More detailed\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.87714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ecommerce-comparison-more-detailed.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>They can cover:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Feature comparison tables<\/li>\n<li>Common questions with clear answers<\/li>\n<li>Use cases and industry applications<\/li>\n<li>Technical specifications that matter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For product pages, go beyond basic descriptions.<\/p>\n<p>Include materials, dimensions, compatibility, warranties, reviews \u2014 whatever matters to your buyers.<\/p>\n<p>For example, GlassesUSA.com has several details on its product pages than just product specifications.<\/p>\n<p>They include information that AI can use when answering specific questions.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GlassesUSA \u2013 Information that AI can use\" alt=\"GlassesUSA \u2013 Information that AI can use\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/glassesusa-information-that-ai-can-use.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Similarly, for category pages, add content that helps buyers choose.<\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s the difference between options? What should they consider? Which product fits which need?<\/p>\n<p>Eyewear retailer Frames Direct does this well.<\/p>\n<p>It has detailed content at the end of its category pages.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Frames Direct \u2013 Detailed content at the end of category\" alt=\"Frames Direct \u2013 Detailed content at the end of category\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0461538461538\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/framesdirect-detailed-content-at-the-end-of-category.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The key is putting this information directly on the page. Not hiding it behind tabs or \u201cread more\u201d buttons.<\/p>\n<p>When someone asks AI about products in your category, you want substance it can quote. Not just a grid of images it can\u2019t interpret.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Track_Where_AI_Mentions_Your_Brand_and_Where_It_Doesnt\"><\/span>11. Track Where AI Mentions Your Brand (and Where It Doesn\u2019t)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You need to know where AI is mentioning your brand and where it isn\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p>Because if competitors appear in AI results and you don\u2019t, they\u2019re capturing the traffic you should be getting.<\/p>\n<p>You can try checking this manually.<\/p>\n<p>Run your target queries (e.g., \u201cnutrition tracking app 2025\u201d) across different AI platforms.<\/p>\n<p>Scan the answers. And see if your brand shows up.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Gemini \u2013 Nutrition tracking app 2025\" alt=\"Gemini \u2013 Nutrition tracking app 2025\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/gemini-nutrition-tracking-app-2025.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But that\u2019s slow. And you\u2019ll only catch a small slice of what\u2019s happening.<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively, you can use Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"AI Brand Performance: See How AI Talks About Your Brand\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/ai-seo\/brand-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI SEO Toolkit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It tracks how often your brand appears in AI-generated answers across various platforms like ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, and Google AI Overview. (In the \u201cVisibility Overview\u201d report.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Visibility Overview\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Visibility Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.66142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/semrush-ai-seo-petlibro-visibility-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can see exactly which topics and prompts your brand appears for.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Your Performing Topics \u2013 Prompts\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Your Performing Topics \u2013 Prompts\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/semrush-ai-seo-petlibro-tyour-performing-topics-prompts.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And which prompts your competitors appear for, but you don\u2019t. (In the \u201cCompetitor Research\u201d report.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Competitor Research \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Missing Topics\" alt=\"Competitor Research \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Missing Topics\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.6385714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/competitor-research-petlibro-missing-topics.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For instance, if you find that AI cites competitors for \u201cCats and Feline Care\u201d but skips your brand, that\u2019s a clear signal to create or optimize a page targeting that exact query.<\/p>\n<p>You also get strategic recommendations. So you can spot gaps, fix weak content, and double down where you\u2019re already winning. (In the \u201cBrand Performance\u201d reports.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 AI Strategic Opportunities\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 AI Strategic Opportunities\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3085714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/semrush-ai-seo-petlibro-ai-strategic-opportunities.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>With a tool like AI SEO Toolkit, you\u2019re not guessing about your AI search visibility.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019re improving based on real AI visibility data.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Optimize_for_Natural_Language_Prompts_Not_Just_Keywords\"><\/span>12. Optimize for Natural Language Prompts, Not Just Keywords<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your <a title=\"Keyword Strategy in SEO: What It Is &amp; How to Create One\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/keyword-strategy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword strategy<\/a> needs to evolve for AI search.<\/p>\n<p>People still search Google for \u201cwinter jacket.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>But they ask AI, \u201cWhat\u2019s the warmest jacket for Chicago winters under $300?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Your content needs to match these natural language patterns.<\/p>\n<p>Start by identifying how people actually phrase questions in your industry.<\/p>\n<p>Use the <a title=\"AI Brand Performance: See How AI Talks About Your Brand\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/ai-seo\/brand-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI SEO Toolkit<\/a> to find high-value prompts in your industry.<\/p>\n<p>Go to the \u201c<strong>Narrative Drivers<\/strong>\u201d report.<\/p>\n<p>And scroll down to the \u201cAll Questions\u201d section to see which prompts mention your brand and where competitors appear instead.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Breakdown by Question\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI SEO \u2013 Petlibro \u2013 Breakdown by Question\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.76571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/semrush-ai-seo-petlibro-breakdown-by-question.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Document these prompt patterns.<\/p>\n<p>Share them with your content team to create pages that answer these specific questions \u2014 not just target the base keyword.<\/p>\n<p>The goal isn\u2019t abandoning keywords.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s expanding from \u201cwinter jacket\u201d pages to content that answers \u201cwarmest jacket for Chicago winters under $300.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Content_Tasks\"><\/span>Content Tasks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your site is technically ready. Your SEO is taken care of.<\/p>\n<p>Now your content team needs to create valuable information and build presence across the web.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to optimize content for AI search:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Publish_Original_Content_with_Data_Examples_and_Insights\"><\/span>13. Publish Original Content with Data, Examples, and Insights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Generic blog posts restating common knowledge rarely perform well in AI search results.<\/p>\n<p>But content with fresh angles and concrete examples does.<\/p>\n<p>At Backlinko, we focus on publishing content that provides unique value through examples, original research, and exclusive insights.<\/p>\n<p>Like this article:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 ChatGPT Using Google Search\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 ChatGPT Using Google Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.85571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/backlinko-chatgpt-using-google-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And even if we\u2019re talking about a common topic (e.g., organic traffic), we add fresh examples.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 Organic Traffic \u2013 Builds Authotity\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 Organic Traffic \u2013 Builds Authotity\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/backlinko-organic-traffic-builds-authotity.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So how do you make your content stand out?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Run small studies or polls to produce original data. Even simple numbers can set your content apart.<\/li>\n<li>Use screenshots, case studies, and workflows from real projects.<\/li>\n<li>Back up your points with stats and cite credible sources.<\/li>\n<li>Add expert quotes to strengthen authority.<\/li>\n<li>Test tools or strategies yourself, and share the actual results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>AI systems look for concrete details they can pull into answers.<\/p>\n<p>The more unique evidence, examples, and voices you add, the better.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Embed_Your_Brand_Name_in_Context-Inclusive_Copy\"><\/span>14. Embed Your Brand Name in Context-Inclusive Copy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Context-inclusive copy means writing sentences that make sense on their own.<\/p>\n<p>Each line should carry enough detail that an AI system understands it without needing the surrounding text.<\/p>\n<p>But take that a step further.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t just make your sentences self-contained.<\/p>\n<p>Embed your brand name inside them so when AI reuses a fragment, your company is part of the answer.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Instead of:<\/strong> \u201cOur tool helped increase conversions by 25%\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Write:<\/strong> \u201c[Product] helped [client] increase checkout completions by 25%\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The second version keeps your brand attached to the insight when AI extracts it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reviews\" alt=\"Reviews\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/reviews.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So how do you do this in practice?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>With data:<\/strong> Tie your brand name directly to research findings or surveys you publish<\/li>\n<li><strong>With comparisons:<\/strong> Mention your brand alongside alternatives, so it\u2019s always part of the conversation<\/li>\n<li><strong>With tutorials:<\/strong> Show steps using your product or service in real workflows<\/li>\n<li><strong>With results:<\/strong> Attach your brand name to case studies and examples<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example from Semrush, using their brand name vs. \u201cwe\u201d:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush Blog \u2013 Using brand name vs. we\" alt=\"Semrush Blog \u2013 Using brand name vs. we\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/semrush-blog-using-brand-name-vs-we.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The goal is simple:<\/p>\n<p>Every quotable fragment should carry both context and your brand name.<\/p>\n<p>That way, when AI pulls it into an answer, your company is mentioned too.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Create_Pages_for_Every_Use_Case_Feature_and_Integration\"><\/span>15. Create Pages for Every Use Case, Feature, and Integration<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Specific pages are more likely to appear in AI responses than generic ones.<\/p>\n<p>So, don\u2019t bundle all features on one page.<\/p>\n<p>Create dedicated pages for each major feature, use case, and integration.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of JustCall doing it right with unique pages for each of its main features and use cases:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"JustCall \u2013 Products &amp; Solutions menu\" alt=\"JustCall \u2013 Products &amp; Solutions menu\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/justcall-products-and-solutions-menu.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The strategy is simple: match how people actually search.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, someone looking for \u201cSlack integration\u201d wants a page about that specific integration. Not a features page where Slack is item #12 in a list.<\/p>\n<p>Structure these pages to answer real questions, like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What problem does this solve?<\/li>\n<li>Who typically uses it?<\/li>\n<li>How does it actually work?<\/li>\n<li>What specific outcomes can they expect?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Get granular with your targeting. Instead of broad topics, focus on specific scenarios.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\u2192 Ecommerce sites can create pages for each product application<\/li>\n<li>\u2192 Service businesses can detail each service variation<\/li>\n<li>\u2192 Publishers can target specific reader scenarios<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The depth of coverage signals expertise while giving AI exact matches for detailed queries.<\/p>\n<p>This specificity is what makes AI content optimization work. You\u2019re creating exactly what AI systems need to cite<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_Expand_Your_Reach_Through_Non-Owned_Channels\"><\/span>16. Expand Your Reach Through Non-Owned Channels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI engines lean heavily on third-party sources. Which means your brand needs to show up in places you don\u2019t fully control.<\/p>\n<p>This goes beyond your on-site efforts.<\/p>\n<p>But it\u2019s still part of the bigger AI visibility play. And your content team can drive it by publishing externally and fueling PR.<\/p>\n<p>Take this example: when I search \u201cbest duffel bags for men 2025\u201d in Claude, it references an Outdoor Gear Lab roundup of top bags.<\/p>\n<p>If you sell duffels, you\u2019d want to be in that article.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Claude \u2013 Outdoor Gear Lab result\" alt=\"Claude \u2013 Outdoor Gear Lab result\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/claude-outdoor-gear-lab-result.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There are two ways to expand your presence on non-owned channels.<\/p>\n<p>One is publishing on other sites yourself \u2014 <a title=\"Guest Blogging: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/the-definitive-guide-to-guest-blogging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guest posts<\/a>, bylined articles, or original research placed on authority blogs and industry outlets.<\/p>\n<p>These extend your reach, position you as an expert, and increase your AI search visibility.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll find guest post opportunities in several well-known sites. Like Fast Company here, which has an authority score of 67.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Fast Company \u2013 Guest post opportunities\" alt=\"Fast Company \u2013 Guest post opportunities\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/fast-company-guest-post-opportunities.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The other way to build visibility is getting featured by others.<\/p>\n<p>Think reviews, roundups, and product comparisons that highlight your solution.<\/p>\n<p>This usually involves working closely with your PR team.<\/p>\n<p>But the content team fuels those opportunities with the data, case studies, and assets that make the pitch worth covering.<\/p>\n<p>Either way, the goal of this AI content strategy is the same: substantive coverage.<\/p>\n<p>A one-line mention usually isn\u2019t enough. You need full features, detailed reviews, or exclusive insights that stand out.<\/p>\n<p>Because the more credible coverage you earn (whether you wrote it or someone else did), the more evidence AI has to pull into its answers.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Journalist Outreach: 9 Steps to Earn High-Authority Links\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/journalist-outreach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Journalist Outreach: 9 Steps to Earn High-Authority Links<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_Overlook_Community_Platforms\"><\/span>Don\u2019t Overlook Community Platforms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>AI systems also pull information from community platforms.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, Reddit and Quora are two of the most referenced sources in ChatGPT and Google AI Mode.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 AI Visibility Index \u2013 Top 10 sources\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI Visibility Index \u2013 Top 10 sources\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.7685714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/swmrush-ai-visibility-index-top-10-sources.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This is where your content team should collaborate with social media or community teams to control conversations. How?<\/p>\n<p>Answer questions thoroughly. Share genuine insights. Mention your product only when it\u2019s genuinely relevant to the discussion.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reddit thread \u2013 Lead gen forms\" alt=\"Reddit thread \u2013 Lead gen forms\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1914285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/reddit-thread-lead-gen-forms.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Over time, these contributions will become part of the dataset AI references.<\/p>\n<p>When someone asks about solutions in your space, your helpful answers may influence AI\u2019s response.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Next_Move_in_AI_Search_Optimization\"><\/span>Your Next Move in AI Search Optimization<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Don\u2019t try to tackle everything at once. Start simple.<\/p>\n<p>First, run your site through Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"AI Brand Performance: See How AI Talks About Your Brand\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/ai-seo\/brand-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI SEO Toolkit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It shows where your brand already appears in AI search results and where you\u2019re missing opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Those missing prompts are your biggest opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Then, grab our free <a title=\"AI Search Optimization Checklist by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1yO3o8bZdWPkX6-PdEu8_DXfkiLBTdPjifeAnTnTh_Qw\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Search Optimization Checklist<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It breaks down the technical, SEO, and content steps you need to follow, so you\u2019re not guessing your AI search optimization.<\/p>\n<p>Next up, check out the <a title=\"6 AI SEO Tools We Absolutely Love Using in 2025\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">6 AI SEO tools we love using<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-optimization\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Optimization: How to Rank in AI Search (+ Checklist)<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When a potential user asks ChatGPT, Google AI, or Perplexity for recommendations, does your brand appear in the answer? Not just cited \u2014 actually mentioned in the response? That\u2019s a crucial distinction. Brands that AI systems mention with context and positive sentiment attract the most intent-driven traffic. Semrush research shows that visitors who find a brand in an AI answer are 4.4 times more valuable than those from traditional search. They\u2019re pre-qualified. They\u2019ve seen AI endorse your solution. And unlike SEO, AI doesn\u2019t care about website [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":14453,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14452","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ranking-positions-of-llm-cited-search-results-tAN6cf-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ranking-positions-of-llm-cited-search-results-tAN6cf-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/craig\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14452","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14452"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14452\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14453"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14452"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14452"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14452"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}