Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)
Formatting web copy as direct, extractable answers for voice assistants and answer engines.
Plain Language Definition
AEO is the practice of designing and formatting web copy as short, clear answers so that voice assistants and answer engines can read them directly to users. It was the forerunner to GEO and powers Google’s featured snippet selection. The core technique is putting the direct answer in the first sentence and then supporting it with evidence.
Technical Definition
Structural optimization of text segments and markup for low-latency query extraction, including interrogatory headings, concise opening answers within 40–60 words, and structured list patterns mapped to common question intents.
Why This Matters for AI Search Visibility
Featured snippets and voice results still drive a significant share of zero-click searches. AEO builds the content habits — concise answers, clean structure, explicit FAQ markup — that transfer directly into AI citation readiness.