AI search explained
What is AEO (answer engine optimization)?
Answer engine optimization (AEO) is the practice of structuring content so search engines and AI assistants can pull a clear, direct answer from it. AEO targets featured snippets, voice assistants, People Also Ask boxes and AI answers by pairing specific questions with concise answers, clean headings and supporting structured data.
How is AEO different from GEO?
AEO focuses on winning the single best answer to a specific question — snippets, voice results and quick answers. GEO is broader and focuses on being cited inside longer AI-generated responses. In practice the techniques overlap, and most agencies work on both together.
What does an AEO-optimized page look like?
It names the question in a heading, answers it in one or two sentences right underneath, then expands with detail. It uses lists and tables for steps and comparisons, and marks up visible FAQs with FAQPage schema.
Which queries should agencies target for AEO?
Start with the questions customers actually ask before buying: costs, timelines, comparisons, how-to questions and “near me” queries. Keyword research with search intent shows which questions matter most.
How do you report AEO results to clients?
Report on snippet and answer wins where they appear, plus readiness on key pages: are the main questions answered directly, and is the supporting schema valid?
Common questions
Is AEO the same as voice search optimization?
Voice search is one part of AEO. AEO also covers featured snippets, People Also Ask boxes and AI chat answers.
How long should an AEO answer be?
Keep the direct answer to about 40 to 60 words. Add detail after it for readers who want more.
Do FAQs help with AEO?
Yes, when they answer real customer questions. Mark them up with FAQPage schema that matches the visible text exactly.
Can a small business benefit from AEO?
Yes. Local businesses often win quick answers for specific local questions that large competitors ignore.