Here are some current search terms (that will probably be updated or outdated soon because AI is evolving so quickly!):
SEO — Search Engine Optimization — still the foundation of solid SEO: site structure, content quality, internal linking, and authority drive everything.
AEO — Answer Engine Optimization — focuses on writing clear, direct answers so content can surface in AI Overviews, featured snippets, and People Also Ask (PAA).
GEO — Generative Engine Optimization — creating content that is clear, credible, and cite-worthy for AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini.
LLMO — Large Language Model Optimization — optimizing content so that AI chatbots and AI search tools use or cite your website when generating answers.
AI search results pull from:
Strong SEO fundamentals
Clear site structure and internal linking
Authoritative, well-written content
Schema markup (a standardized, machine-readable code)
FAQs
Bottom line: Currently there is no replacement for solid SEO work and optimizing your website. If SEO is done properly, you are also optimizing for AI search.
A simple way to think about it:
SEO = Foundation (must-have)
AEO = Optimize for direct answers
GEO/LLMO = Optimize for AI synthesis
