Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)

Definition: Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is the practice of structuring content so that generative search systems—including AI Overviews, conversational search, and large language model–driven answer engines—can accurately summarize, cite, and reuse that content in response to user queries. This is sometimes used as a more general term, and sometimes used as a synonym for AEO and/or AISEO.

• Includes:
  • Formatting content for LLM summarization and retrieval
  • Ensuring clarity, evidence grounding, and attribution signals
  • Aligning content to the way models decide what to cite
• Excludes:
  • Traditional ranking-focused SEO
  • Tactics intended to manipulate search visibility without improving meaning
• Notes: GEO does not replace SEO; it builds on top of it as search becomes answer-first.

Why It Matters
Search is shifting from “lists of links” to “direct answers.” GEO ensures your content is visible, usable, and attributable inside generative results — where early brand consideration increasingly occurs.

See Also
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO); AI Overviews; Source Eligibility; Entity-Rich Content; Format Discipline.

References:

• Aggarwal, Murahari, Rajpurohit, Kalyan, Narasimhan, Deshpande. “GEO: Generative Engine Optimization.” arXiv
• Words Have Impact. GEO Writing: The Future of Content Isn’t Google. It’s Generative.
• Words Have Impact. A Real-World Guide to AEO Pricing (and Why Almost Nobody Posts Their Rates).

Synonyms: AEO (though this is sometimes seen as narrower), AISEO