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2 min read LLM SEO

GEO, AEO, and LLM SEO Explained in Plain Language

SEO in 2025 has new acronyms. GEO, AEO, and LLM SEO all describe how optimization adapts to AI-driven search. Here’s what each means, why they matter, and how they fit into your content strategy.

TL;DR

  • AEO (Answer Engine Optimization): Optimizing for AI tools like Google AI Overviews.
  • GEO (Generative Engine Optimization): Optimizing for generative AI like GPT Search or Perplexity.
  • LLM SEO: Making content readable and useful for large language models.
  • They are extensions of traditional SEO, not replacements.

What Is AEO?

  • AEO = Answer Engine Optimization.
  • Focus: content structured to be cited inside AI answers.
  • Methods: direct question-answer format, FAQ schema, concise headings, credible sources.
  • Example: Appearing inside Google’s AI Overview when someone searches a service-related question.

What Is GEO?

  • GEO = Generative Engine Optimization.
  • Focus: visibility in generative platforms (Perplexity, GPT Search, Claude).
  • Methods: structured authority content, clustering, providing clear explanations that AI models can reuse.
  • GEO emphasizes being part of summarized outputs, even without a traditional SERP click.

What Is LLM SEO?

  • LLM SEO = Large Language Model SEO.
  • Focus: ensuring machine readability for AI models.
  • Methods: short, clear sentences; logical formatting; schema markup; topical authority clusters.
  • The goal: make it easy for models to extract and trust your content.

How They Work Together

Term Focus Platforms Key Methods
AEO Optimizing for answer engines Google AI Overviews FAQs, schema, structured Q&A
GEO Optimizing for generative search Perplexity, GPT Search, Claude Authority clusters, credibility, clear language
LLM SEO Optimizing for large language models AI systems generally Readability, schema, structured data

All three are simply extensions of SEO basics — content, structure, authority, and technical optimization remain the foundation.

Why These Terms Matter

  • They reflect the evolution of SEO in 2025.
  • Agencies and businesses need to adapt strategies beyond rankings.
  • Using AEO, GEO, and LLM principles together maximizes citations and visibility in AI-driven search.

Best Practices to Apply Immediately

  1. Answer questions directly in your content.
  2. Add FAQ schema on every page.
  3. Cluster keywords to build topical authority.
  4. Keep writing at grade-8 readability for clarity.
  5. Update content quarterly for freshness.

FAQs

Do I need to choose between AEO, GEO, and LLM SEO?
No. They overlap — think of them as layers on top of traditional SEO.

Which is most important in 2025?
AEO, since Google AI Overviews dominate visibility. GEO and LLM SEO strengthen broader reach.

Are these strategies different from traditional SEO?
They extend it. On-page, backlinks, and technical SEO are still required.

How do I start?
Begin with FAQs, schema, and clear, data-backed content. Expand with topical clusters over time.

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