GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) is the practice of maximizing content visibility within AI-generated answers. It focuses on techniques that increase citation rates and improve metrics like PAWC and Subjective Impression.
Key Citations
Core Stats
"The goal is not to rank, but to be the answer."
- AEO VC
What is GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation)?
Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO) is about maximizing your visibility inside the AI-generated answer itself. This guide covers the metrics and techniques that define GEO.
The GEO Metrics That Matter
- PAWC (Position-Adjusted Word Count): Measures how much of your content is used in the answer.
- Subjective Impression (SI): Scores the quality and trustworthiness of the answer.
- Top-of-Answer Citation Rate: Tracks how often you are the first source cited.
Techniques That Work
GEO relies on evidence-based content strategies:
- Citations, Quotes, and Stats: Ground your claims with verifiable evidence.
- Domain-Specific Playbooks: Tailor your content to the specific expectations of your industry (e.g., SaaS, Health).
What Doesn’t Work
Keyword Stuffing: This outdated SEO tactic fails in GEO because answer engines prioritize natural language and verifiable information, not keyword density.
GEO in Practice
In our case studies, applying GEO techniques has led to a 22–37% lift in visibility by increasing PAWC and citation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GEO different from AEO?
GEO is a subset of AEO. While AEO is the broad strategy of optimizing for answer engines, GEO refers to the specific tactics used to improve visibility within the generative answers themselves.
What is a good PAWC score?
A 'good' PAWC score is relative to your competitors, but scores above 20% are generally considered strong.