From SEO to AI Search: How Content Gets Discovered in 2026
Optimizing a blog for AI search is usually called AEO – Answer Engine Optimization. It means structuring your content so AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews can easily understand it, extract answers from it, and recommend it. You may also hear: • GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) – focusing on AI-generated answers • AI Search Optimization – a broader, informal term • LLMO (Large Language Model Optimization) – more technical, AI-focused language In simple terms: - SEO = ranking in Google - AEO = being the answer AI picks Traditional SEO is built around keywords, backlinks, and rankings. AI search works differently. AI doesn’t browse pages. It reads content, understands context, and selects information it trusts. For AI, clarity matters more than cleverness. AI-friendly content usually includes: • clear question-based headings • direct answers near the top of the article • structured sections (lists, steps, comparisons) • strong topical focus instead of scattered keywords • natural language that sounds like real questions people ask SEO and AI search are not opposites. The smart approach is to use SEO to get traffic and AEO to become a trusted source. Example strategy for a fashion blog: Instead of writing: “Winter Fashion Trends 2026.” Structure content like: • What should I wear in winter if I want to look elegant but warm? • How do I style a trench coat for everyday city life? • What winter pieces are worth investing in long term? Then: • Answer each question clearly in its own section • Add short summaries at the top of the post • Use clean lists for outfits, fabrics, and styling tips • Keep one main topic per article This makes the post: • easier to rank in Google • easier for AI to quote • more trustworthy for readers • more valuable as a long-term website asset Blogs built this way are not just traffic sites. They become reference sites. P.S. How do you like this image? Made with ChatGPT