Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the process of creating and formatting content to be selected as the preferred source for AI-driven answer engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google's SGE. Unlike traditional SEO, AEO focuses on providing direct, verifiable, and citable answers to user queries.
Core Stats
"The future of search is not a list of blue links; it's a direct answer."
- Industry Analyst
What is AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation)?
As AI models like ChatGPT and Google's SGE increasingly cite sources instead of just providing links, a new discipline has emerged: Answer Engine Optimization (AEO). This guide explains what it is and why it matters.
AEO vs. SEO: The Key Difference
Traditional SEO focuses on ranking in a list of links. AEO focuses on being the cited source within a generated answer. This requires a shift from keywords to verifiable facts.
| Factor | Traditional SEO | Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Rank on a SERP | Be cited in a generated answer |
| Key Metric | Keyword Ranking / Clicks | PAWC / Citation Rate |
Why AEO Matters in 2025
With generative AI expected to handle a significant share of search traffic, visibility within these answers is no longer optional. Being a cited source builds authority and drives qualified traffic.
Core AEO Techniques
- Add Citations: Link to authoritative sources to ground your claims.
- Include Stats: Use specific data points to add credibility.
- Use Verbatim Quotes: Quote experts and attribute them clearly.
- Optimize Lead Paragraphs: Your first paragraph should be a concise, direct answer to the user's query.
How Success is Measured
AEO success is measured with AI-native metrics like PAWC (Position-Adjusted Word Count), which tracks how much of your content is used in an answer, and Subjective Impression, which scores the quality and trustworthiness of the answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AEO the same as SEO?
No. While related, SEO targets keyword rankings on SERPs, whereas AEO targets inclusion in AI-generated answers. AEO requires more focus on factual accuracy, citations, and conversational tone.
What is PAWC?
PAWC (Position-Adjusted Word Count) is a key AEO metric that measures how much of your content appears in an answer engine's response, weighted by its position. Higher PAWC correlates with greater visibility.
Does keyword stuffing work for AEO?
No, it is ineffective. Answer engines prioritize natural language and verifiable facts over keyword density. For more details, see our guide on keyword stuffing in AEO.