What is AI Search?
AI Search refers to search systems using large language models (LLMs) to understand user queries and synthesize comprehensive answers from multiple sources. Unlike traditional search engines that return lists of links, AI search engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google Gemini provide direct, conversational responses.
What is Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)?
Answer Engine Optimization is the practice of optimizing content to be discovered, understood, and cited by AI-powered search systems. The CASE framework provides a structured approach:
- Content - Answer-ready, quotable content formatted for AI consumption
- Authority - Trust signals, E-E-A-T, and credible citations
- Structure - Schema markup, semantic HTML, and clear hierarchy
- Entity - Clear entity identification and knowledge graph alignment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SEO and AEO?
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) focuses on ranking web pages in traditional search results through keywords, backlinks, and technical optimization. AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) focuses on optimizing content to be retrieved, understood, and cited by AI systems like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews.
How do AI search engines find and cite sources?
AI search engines use web crawling, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and trained knowledge to find relevant sources. They evaluate content based on topical relevance, factual accuracy, source authority, and content structure.
What is structured data and why does it matter for AI?
Structured data is a standardized format for providing information about a page using Schema.org vocabulary and JSON-LD format. It helps AI systems understand and accurately represent your content in their responses.
What is the CASE framework for AEO?
CASE is the AEO optimization framework: Content (answer-ready formatting), Authority (trust signals and E-E-A-T), Structure (schema markup and semantic HTML), and Entity (clear entity identification). It parallels traditional SEO's on-page, off-page, and technical breakdown.
External Resources
Learn more about AI search and optimization from these authoritative sources: