Answer Engine Optimization and how AI is changing Google
People are now more likely to search for information by asking questions. This will produce AI powered results and will answer the questions you asked. Usually you will get a summary of information from various sources with links.
Because of this, Answer Engine Optimisation has become more popular. Answer Engine Optimisation can help you create content that will appear in AI searches. Answer Engine Optimisation helps you create content that is clear and helpful.
It is important to understand Answer Engine Optimisation. In this guide we will look at what Answer Engine Optimisation is, and how AI is changing Google Search. We will also look at ways to improve your website.
What is Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO)
Answer Engine Optimisation is a way to optimise your content to help search engines and AI understand what your content is about.
Unlike traditional SEO, you are not looking to optimise for specific keywords but will instead try to answer all questions.
These questions could be;
What is cloud storage? How does website hosting work? Best smartphone for photos? How can I speed up my website?
AEO will try to clearly answer these questions.
How AI Search is changing Google
How Google Search works has changed since AI became popular.
1. AI Overview Answers
Google now have an AI overview feature where they will display AI answers at the top of your search results.
This helps people to quickly understand more complex topics. Answers can also include links.
This can give webmasters another opportunity to provide helpful and relevant content.
2. People are asking full questions
People are now more likely to ask full questions.
Instead of typing in phone storage, they will ask how can I add more storage to my phone but not lose any important photos.
AI search engines will take this into consideration and provide more relevant answers. It is therefore important to make your content use natural language throughout and provide helpful explanations.
3. Ask more complex questions
Usually people will have to search for this information however with AI you can ask further questions.
For example, if you want to know more about building a website, you may want to know more about hosting, design, security and maintaining.
If you have clear content within your article that provides all the relevant information you can provide useful information.
4. Links to websites
Answers may provide links to websites. Whilst you should consider this, there is no guarantees your website will show up. Google will still use their traditional methods.
How to Optimise your website for AEO
You will not need to completely change your SEO strategy but should aim to improve your content. Try to make your content clear and easy to read.
Here are some tips to help create AEO friendly content.
1. Answer questions
Consider what questions your target audience may ask.
Within your content try to answer questions. If providing information on website hosting, start by explaining what website hosting is and then explain the different types.
Avoid adding too much extra text.
2. Clear headings
Include clear headings throughout your content.
Creating a well structured blog will help your readers to understand your content. Use headings such as;
H1 = Main heading H2 = Major sections H3 = Sub topics Bullet Points = Lists and key points
Ensure your content is relevant to the topic and avoid repeating yourself.
3. Provide helpful and unique content
Avoid having too many similar articles. Provide helpful information. This can include;
Examples Step by step guides Personal experience Unique explanations Accurate and up to date information
Try to provide something useful.
4. Use relevant keywords
Keywords are still very important. Consider what people are searching for.
Identify your primary keyword and any secondary keywords. Think about common questions people may ask and include them in your headings. For example if you are providing information on website security you can naturally include related topics such as SSL certificates, secure connections and website security.
Avoid using too many keywords. Write for people and ensure your content answers people’s questions.
5. Improve your technical SEO
Even if your content is great, you need to ensure your website can be crawled. Ensure your website;
Can be crawled Has good indexing Mobile friendly Fast loading Clear navigation and internal links Key information is easy to read No unnecessary duplicate pages
As the AI features still use Google’s traditional methods, technical SEO is still important.
6. Use Google Search Console
Use Google Search Console to see how your website is performing.
Look at;
Impressions Clicks Queries Performance Indexing
Google will also show you information around your generative AI search visibility.
Should I still do traditional SEO?
Yes. Google state that their generative AI search features use their traditional search ranking and quality systems. Therefore traditional SEO is still important. You will need to ensure your content is helpful, your site can be crawled and that you have a great user experience.
AEO should be viewed as part of your SEO strategy.
Do not try to use any AI ranking tactics. There is no guaranteed way to rank your website. There is no special type of content or additional markings. The best way is to ensure your content is helpful, your website is technically sound and you are providing your users with the information they need.
Conclusion
Answer Engine Optimisation is becoming an important part of the search industry. With Google including more features using AI, people are asking questions in new ways. This can cause some issues for webmasters however, by providing clear answers, unique content, descriptive headings and great technical SEO you can improve your visibility.
Traditional SEO is still important however is changing. Providing helpful information and a great user experience will make your website more ready for these changes.
